Seamlessly blending the expertise of radiologic imaging technologists with skills in information technology (IT) and networking, picture archiving and communication system (PACS) administrators ensure the smooth operation of medical imaging systems within healthcare settings. This critical and compelling position is essential for both patients and the healthcare staff providing their care, bridging the gap between medical institutions so that medical images and records remain accurate and consistent within and across healthcare networks.
No matter if you are interested in becoming a PACS administrator or already working as a radiologic technologist, the sections that follow outline what to know about this career path — based on a discussion with Ron Gilbert, MS, RT(R), CIIP — along with valuable insights into the day-to-day functions of this role.
What Is a PACS Administrator?
PACS administrators manage the archiving, retrieval, and display of diagnostic images, ensuring that healthcare providers can access what they need when they need it. These digital images are useful visual aids for doctors to review with patients — and gone are the days when they must be downloaded onto CDs in order to be saved and transferred. The universal format and technical standard for storing and sharing this medical imaging information is known as Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM).
Gilbert, an experienced PACS administrator and manager, describes the role of these professionals as one where "everyone can see an image anywhere, anytime." He adds, “PACS administrators are responsible for not only making sure images are available but also that the workflows make sense, that new systems are integrated, that there's less data entry manually and therefore fewer errors. So, you can argue that the more effective the PACS administrator, the higher the quality of care.”
The title of "PACS administrator" is widely used and recognized; however, similar job titles under this umbrella may include that of PACS analyst, radiology systems analyst, imaging informatics specialist, and more. These roles may have different emphases (such as workflow management or technical troubleshooting), but they all center on supporting medical imaging technology as well as the ability to communicate with a range of personnel.
In addition, there are different tracks within PACS administration. Some PACS administrators may focus on specific areas like 3D rendering, laboratory work, dictation systems, or even specialties apart from radiology like dental or podiatry PACS. This diversity means that those in the field have opportunities to specialize depending on their interests and the needs of their healthcare environment.
Do PACS Admins Work Remotely?
While PACS administrators can and do work remotely, there are times when an on-site presence is necessary, such as during system go-lives or training sessions. For instance, Gilbert and his team have been declared "virtual employees" and rarely need to visit hospitals, instead focusing on supporting users and solving larger workflow issues remotely. “There are times we need to be on site during go-lives when there's a lot of emotions running,” Gilbert says. “Doctors are nervous about change; they’ve got to take care of their patients, and they can't see in the future how they're going to do that yet.”
For many PACS administrators, being highly responsive and accessible (regardless of their physical location) is a crucial part of the job. As the manager of his team, Gilbert explains, “I'm best served if I answer the phone in one ring and answer my email before they stop typing the first one.”
How Much Do PACS Administrators Make?
As with most positions, the salary of a PACS administrator varies based on factors such as geographic region, healthcare facility type, years of experience, and level of responsibility or skill intensity. According to Gilbert, PACS administrators are often paid at a level comparable to a chief technologist in clinical settings, with additional compensation sometimes given for certifications like Certified Imaging Informatics Professional (CIIP) or PACS Administrators Registry and Certification Association (PARCA) credentials. Location and the scope of job duties — whether they extend to overseeing other systems beyond PACS — may also influence pay.
How to Become a PACS Administrator
The path toward becoming a PACS administrator can take numerous forms, but the right combination of experience, education, and passion can help you find your place in the field.
1. Leverage Previous Experience
Whether one’s experience leans more toward the clinical side of healthcare or the technology realm, there is plenty that teams of PACS administrators can learn from one another’s skill sets to round out their own.
Medical Imaging and Healthcare
The majority of PACS admins come from a background in radiologic technology or another clinical role. Gilbert himself began as a radiologic technologist, where his combination of imaging and computer skills led to an opportunity in PACS. Having clinical experience helps PACS admins communicate effectively with radiologists and understand the needs of users.
Networking and IT
Alternatively, some PACS admins have an IT background, namely in healthcare IT. Gilbert emphasizes that teams often benefit from having members with both clinical and IT perspectives, as each brings unique strengths to problem-solving.
2. PACS Training and Education
Because technology is always advancing, PACS administrators are bound to receive regular on-the-job training to keep up with evolving systems. Depending on role requirements, professionals may also need to maintain their specific clinical credentials in radiologic technology or IT along with corresponding continuing education requirements. No matter what skills, knowledge, and training you acquire along the way, it is valuable to reflect all of this on your resume.
Is a Degree Required to Be a PACS Admin?
A formal college degree is not necessarily required, but many employers prefer candidates with a background in radiology, IT, or related fields. Gilbert's healthcare system prefers PACS administrators who have a clinical credential, as they are better positioned to relate to the system's end users.
3. PACS Certifications
Official certifications play a central role in the PACS career path. Although not always required, they demonstrate a level of expertise that can set candidates apart in addition to whatever traits they hold that make them qualified for the position. Recognized PACS certifications include:
- ABII (American Board of Imaging Informatics) – The American Board of Imaging Informatics sets the professional certification standards for excellence with a highly respected certification process that includes the Certified Imaging Informatics Professional (CIIP) credentials. It recognizes well-trained professionals who use technology to maximize efficiency and increase clinical staff satisfaction and productivity, while realizing strategic goals and improving patient care.
- PARCA (PACS Administrators Registry and Certification Association) – The PARCA certifications allow for specialization in different aspects of PACS, such as DICOM interoperability or networking. Gilbert recommends obtaining multiple PARCA certifications to demonstrate comprehensive knowledge and achieve the equivalent of what the CIIP reflects. Multiple certifications are available from PARCA:
- Certified PACS Associate (CPAS) - certification achieved by passing both Technical & Clinical exams.
- Certified DICOM Integration Professional (CDIP) - objective is to support, evaluate and troubleshoot DICOM connectivity.
- Certified PACS System Analyst (CPSA) - CPAS certification is a requirement for this higher-level certification.
4. PACS Administrator Jobs
PACS administrator positions are available across healthcare settings, from hospitals to specialty clinics. Titles may vary, and some roles may emphasize different aspects of PACS work, such as integration or user support, depending on the employer's needs. According to Gilbert, some healthcare systems hire PACS administrators with a focus on care platforms that touch the patient directly, making clinical experience particularly valuable.
5. Continuing Education and PACS Career Growth
Continuing education is key for PACS administrators who want to stay updated on evolving technology and grow in their careers. Gilbert's own journey — from radiologic technologist to PACS administrator, then eventually to teaching courses and managing a team of PACS administrators — illustrates how ongoing learning can lead to career advancement. He also holds a master's degree in IT system management, which has expanded his ability to think critically and engage in higher-level decision-making.
PACS Admin: Roles and Responsibilities
The primary role of a PACS administrator is to ensure that diagnostic images are accessible when needed, thereby maintaining workflows that minimize errors and support clinical care. PACS admins must be adept at understanding both clinical workflows and IT systems, acting as the "translator" or "compiler" between medical professionals and the technology.
“Basically, you are in charge of the PACS system,” Gilbert elaborates. “People are counting on you to get an image in front of them no matter what the situation is, and you're going to find the root cause. You're going to pull in whatever resources you need. You're going to take charge of that image access at that point.”
Examples of general duties and responsibilities of PACS administrators include:
- Preparing, storing, and transmitting images
- Upgrading and integrating new systems as needed to better support providers and patients
- Performing routine maintenance, providing technical support, and troubleshooting workflow problems
- Running tests and analyzing reports
- Training superusers who can handle common issues at each site
- Providing general IT support outside of PACS-specific systems to imaging & hospital teams
PACS Administrator: Pros and Cons
According to Gilbert, one of the key advantages of being a PACS administrator is the impact on patient care. You are directly responsible for making sure doctors have the images they need, when they need them, which makes a true difference while being personally fulfilling and gratifying. PACS admins also get to work with cutting-edge technology and are often involved in major healthcare initiatives.
However, the role can be demanding. PACS administrators are often on call 24/7 (without additional pay as part of their salaries), and the work can be relentless — especially when troubleshooting during a critical moment in patient care. Gilbert emphasizes that PACS administrators need to take their responsibility seriously, as issues with PACS can affect patient outcomes.
Become a PACS Administrator With MTMI Training!
Becoming a PACS administrator calls for a mix of clinical or IT experience, targeted education, and even certifications that demonstrate knowledge of imaging informatics. Whether you're coming from a healthcare background or an IT-focused career, there are many paths to this demanding yet rewarding role that is essential to modern healthcare delivery. As Gilbert's extensive experience shows, it also offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on patient care.
To that end, we are grateful to Ron for his time spent sharing his commendable expertise and passion as a PACS administrator and instructor. For radiologic technologists or other professionals seeking continuing education opportunities in PACS administration that also prepare you for the CIIP certification exam, look no further than the PACS administrator course through MTMI, which covers in detail the ins and outs of PACS systems. First and foremost, the certificate course is designed to help set students up for success with practical competencies as PACS admins. Because formal degree programs do not currently exist for PACS administration, this credential is respected and highly applicable in the industry.
Additionally, we offer webinars and presentations that include a review for the CIIP exam, information that technologists should know about PACS, plus other PACS training sessions.
MTMI programs are taught by experts with national reputations in their fields and cover many modalities. Our cross-training courses, offered in classroom as well as via webinars, prepare you for registry exams and take your career to the next level. Check out our full catalog of programs or contact us with questions today!
