How to Become an EKG Technician

Want a healthcare career that’s fast to start and high in demand?
Becoming an EKG technician (also known as a cardiovascular technician) can be achieved in less than a year—and offers strong job growth, flexible schedules, and steady pay.

If you’re detail-oriented, compassionate, and curious about how the heart works, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from training and certification to salary expectations and job outlook.

What Does an EKG Technician Do?

EKG technicians (short for electrocardiograph technicians) operate specialized equipment to measure and record the electrical activity of the heart. They play a vital role in diagnosing and monitoring heart conditions.

Common Duties:

• Setting up and maintaining EKG machines
• Explaining procedures to patients
• Attaching electrodes and monitoring results
• Assisting doctors with stress tests or Holter monitors
• Recording and analyzing heart rhythms

EKG technicians work closely with cardiologists, nurses, and medical assistants in hospitals, diagnostic labs, and outpatient clinics.

With heart disease remaining the leading cause of death in the U.S., demand for skilled EKG technicians continues to rise across all healthcare settings.

How to Become an EKG Technician (5 Steps)

Here’s how to start your career in cardiac diagnostics:

1. Earn your high school diploma or GED
   Focus on biology, anatomy, and computer literacy.

2. Complete an accredited EKG technician program
   Programs typically take 3–9 months and combine classroom and hands-on training.

3. Gain clinical experience
   Many schools include externships in hospitals or cardiac clinics.

4. Earn certification
   Certification is optional but preferred by most employers. Top certifications include:

   • CET (Certified EKG Technician) – NHA
   • EKG Technician Certification (ETC) – AMCA
   • Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT) – CCI

5. Apply for jobs in healthcare facilities
   Hospitals, cardiology practices, diagnostic labs, and outpatient centers all hire EKG technicians.

Certification & Licensing Requirements

Most states don’t require a license, but certification shows professionalism and can lead to higher pay.

Top Certifying Organizations:

• National Healthcareer Association (NHA) – CET
• American Medical Certification Association (AMCA) – EKG Technician
• Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) – CCT

Certification exams usually require completion of an approved training program or six months of supervised experience.

Skills That Make Great EKG Technicians

• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent bedside manner and communication
• Knowledge of cardiac anatomy and physiology
• Comfort with computers and medical equipment
• Ability to stay calm under pressure

The best EKG technicians combine technical skill with empathy—helping patients feel at ease during potentially stressful procedures.

Work Settings & Career Advancement

EKG technicians can work in:

• Hospitals and emergency departments
• Cardiology clinics and outpatient labs
• Diagnostic imaging centers
• Rehabilitation facilities

Career Growth Opportunities:

• Holter Monitoring Technician
• Cardiovascular Technologist
• Medical Laboratory Technician
• Healthcare Supervisor or Instructor

Pros & Cons of the EKG Tech Career

Pros:

• Entry in less than one year
• Consistent demand across the U.S.
• High satisfaction from patient interaction
• Pathway into advanced healthcare roles

Cons:

• Requires precision and focus under pressure
• Standing for long periods
• Some weekend or night shifts

Start Your EKG Technician Career

Whether you want to work directly with patients or support cardiologists behind the scenes, becoming an EKG technician offers fast training, reliable income, and strong job growth.

Ekg Technician Salary by State