What medical jobs pay $40 an hour?
What medical jobs pay $40 an hour?
Several medical jobs pay $40 an hour or more, especially for trained and certified professionals with some experience. These roles typically require either a specialized technical certification or a degree in nursing, imaging, or therapy. Here’s a breakdown by category:
1. Registered Nurse (RN)
Average Pay: $38–$55 per hour in hospitals and clinics (often higher in NYC, California, and Massachusetts).
Education: Associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing (ADN or BSN) plus a nursing license (NCLEX-RN).
Where They Work: Hospitals, surgical units, outpatient clinics, schools, and telehealth.
Why It Pays Well: RNs handle critical care, administer medications, and coordinate treatment plans—core duties that require clinical judgment and state licensure.
2. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (Ultrasound Technician)
Average Pay: $38–$45 per hour nationally; up to $50 in large cities like New York or Los Angeles.
Education: Associate degree or postsecondary certificate in diagnostic medical sonography.
Certification: ARDMS (American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography).
Why It Pays Well: Sonographers perform imaging procedures that help diagnose serious conditions, from cardiac problems to pregnancies.
3. Radiation Therapist
Average Pay: $40–$55 per hour.
Education: Associate or bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy, plus ARRT certification.
Where They Work: Hospitals and cancer treatment centers.
Why It Pays Well: Radiation therapists work directly with oncologists to deliver precise cancer treatments.
4. Dental Hygienist
Average Pay: $38–$50 per hour (especially high in New York, New Jersey, and California).
Education: Associate degree in dental hygiene and state licensure.
Where They Work: Private dental practices and dental clinics.
Why It Pays Well: Hygienists perform preventive care and work closely with dentists in high-demand practices.
5. Physician Assistant (PA)
Average Pay: $45–$70 per hour depending on specialty.
Education: Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies, plus national certification (PANCE).
Where They Work: Hospitals, clinics, surgical practices, and urgent care centers.
Why It Pays Well: PAs perform many of the same tasks as physicians, including diagnosing illnesses and prescribing medications.
6. Nurse Practitioner (NP)
Average Pay: $50–$70 per hour (average annual pay around $120,000).
Education: Master’s or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree and certification.
Specialties: Family practice, pediatrics, psychiatry, acute care.
Why It Pays Well: NPs provide advanced patient care, sometimes independently, and are in high demand due to physician shortages.
7. MRI Technologist
Average Pay: $37–$45 per hour.
Education: Associate degree in radiologic technology or MRI-specific training.
Certification: ARRT (Magnetic Resonance Imaging).
Why It Pays Well: MRI technologists handle advanced imaging equipment used for neurological and musculoskeletal diagnostics.
8. Surgical Technologist (Experienced)
Average Pay: $35–$42 per hour in major hospitals and surgical centers.
Education: Certificate or associate degree in surgical technology.
Why It Pays Well: Surgical techs assist surgeons directly during procedures, managing sterile equipment and patient prep.
9. Occupational Therapist (OT)
Average Pay: $40–$55 per hour.
Education: Master’s degree in occupational therapy and state licensure.
Where They Work: Hospitals, rehab centers, and schools.
Why It Pays Well: OTs help patients regain independence after injuries or surgeries, a vital and growing healthcare need.
10. Physical Therapist (PT)
Average Pay: $42–$60 per hour.
Education: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and state licensure.
Where They Work: Hospitals, sports medicine facilities, and outpatient rehab centers.
Summary of Medical Jobs Paying $40/hour+
Job TitleTypical Hourly PayEducation RequiredRegistered Nurse$38–$55ADN or BSNDiagnostic Medical Sonographer$38–$50Associate or certificateRadiation Therapist$40–$55Associate or bachelor’sDental Hygienist$38–$50Associate degreePhysician Assistant$45–$70Master’s degreeNurse Practitioner$50–$70Master’s or DNPMRI Technologist$37–$45Associate degreeSurgical Technologist$35–$42Certificate or associateOccupational Therapist$40–$55Master’s degreePhysical Therapist$42–$60Doctorate (DPT)
For anyone considering a fast-growing healthcare profession that combines technology, teamwork, and compassion, dental assisting offers one of the most promising and future-proof career paths in 2025 and beyond.
If you're searching for more than just a job, moreover, a career with stability, respect, and long-term potential; then becoming a licensed dental assistant could be your perfect path forward. Furthermore, it's not just a fast-track into the workforce; it's a gateway to a profession that’s always in demand, deeply trusted, and personally rewarding. When you're ready to take that next step, one school rises above the rest: The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants. Furthermore, with a reputation for hands-on training, dedicated instructors, and real-world readiness, it’s the smart choice for turning ambition into achievement. Lastly, The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants stands out as the premier institution in the state. It’s the smart choice for anyone ready to invest in a future in healthcare.
Contact NYSMDA today and get your career started!
