PACS Administrator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the rapidly evolving field of healthcare technology, the role of the PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) Administrator has become increasingly critical.

As healthcare systems advance, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals who can manage, maintain, and secure our vital medical imaging systems.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a PACS Administrator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the complex world of healthcare technology,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable PACS Administrator job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

PACS Administrator Duties and Responsibilities

PACS Administrators, or Picture Archiving and Communication System Administrators, are responsible for the maintenance and operation of PACS, a medical imaging technology used for storing, retrieving, presenting and sharing images.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Overseeing all PACS systems and ensuring their functionality and reliability
• Installing, configuring, and maintaining PACS software and hardware
• Providing technical support and training to end-users
• Performing daily system status checks and routine maintenance activities
• Working with other healthcare IT professionals to integrate PACS with other systems such as EMR (Electronic Medical Records)
• Ensuring compliance with data storage and security regulations
• Developing and implementing PACS policies and procedures
• Assisting in the diagnosis and resolution of PACS related issues
• Staying updated on the latest industry trends, advancements, and best practices

 

PACS Administrator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) Administrator to manage and maintain our medical imaging database.

The PACS Administrator will be responsible for the daily administration of the PACS system, including image workflow, archiving, quality control, and system maintenance.

The ideal candidate will have a background in radiology IT, a deep understanding of radiology workflow, and a strong knowledge of PACS and DICOM standards.

Your role will be essential in ensuring smooth and efficient radiology operations.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain the PACS/RIS systems
• Oversee image workflow, archiving, auto-routing, prefetching and other related activities
• Ensure system stability and accessibility, and perform system troubleshooting as required
• Coordinate with Radiologists and other medical staff to ensure imaging procedures are conducted accurately
• Conduct regular system checks and updates, and implement necessary software patches
• Manage user access and security for PACS/RIS systems
• Provide training and support to end users
• Adhere to all relevant healthcare regulations and standards

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a PACS Administrator or similar role in radiology IT
• Knowledge of PACS/RIS systems and DICOM standards
• Understanding of radiology workflow
• Technical ability to maintain and troubleshoot PACS/RIS systems
• Experience with system training and end user support
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills
• BSc degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Healthcare or related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: PACS Administrator
• Work Environment: Hospital or healthcare facility setting. Some on-call hours may be required for system maintenance or emergencies.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the IT Manager or Radiology Department Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $90,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a PACS Administrator Do?

A PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) Administrator works within healthcare organizations, specifically in the radiology or medical imaging departments.

Their main responsibility is to manage and maintain the PACS, which is a medical imaging technology providing economical storage and convenient access to images from multiple modalities (source machine types).

PACS Administrators ensure that the system is functioning properly, allowing doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to access the necessary patient imaging data.

They conduct regular checks and maintenance on the system to prevent technical issues.

They might also be involved in training staff on how to use the PACS, developing guidelines and protocols for its use, and ensuring that the system complies with healthcare regulations and standards.

In the event of system issues or failures, the PACS Administrator is responsible for troubleshooting and resolving the problem, often working closely with IT departments or external vendors.

Additionally, PACS Administrators often work on projects related to system upgrades or the implementation of new systems, ensuring that these processes are carried out smoothly with minimal disruption to clinical operations.

 

PACS Administrator Qualifications and Skills

A PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) Administrator should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Strong technical skills to manage and maintain the PACS software and hardware infrastructure.
• Experience with DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) and HL7 (Health Level Seven International) standards.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities to promptly address any technical issues that may arise and ensure system stability.
• Ability to coordinate with medical staff, IT personnel, and vendors to facilitate smooth operations and ensure system compatibility.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to provide training and support to end-users, and to liaise with vendors and other stakeholders.
• Experience in data management, including data backup and recovery, to prevent loss of valuable medical imaging data.
• Knowledge of healthcare regulations, especially those related to patient privacy and data security, to ensure compliance.
• Detail-oriented approach to work, with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and efficiency.
• Understanding of medical imaging processes and technologies to effectively administer the PACS system.

 

PACS Administrator Experience Requirements

PACS Administrators typically require at least 2 to 3 years of experience in a hospital or healthcare setting, often in an IT or radiology department.

This hands-on experience is essential in understanding the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) and its role in the medical imaging field.

Entry-level PACS Administrators usually gain this experience through internships, part-time roles or positions such as IT Support Technician or Radiology Technologist.

Familiarity with DICOM standards and HL7 communication protocols is often expected.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience may have developed their skills and knowledge in PACS Administration, often having a comprehensive understanding of system operations, data backup, workflow optimization, and troubleshooting.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often have a strong background in PACS project management, demonstrating leadership skills and experience managing complex PACS implementation or upgrade projects.

These candidates may be ready for a managerial or team-lead position in PACS Administration.

In addition, certification such as Certified Imaging Informatics Professional (CIIP) is often a plus, demonstrating a high level of competency in imaging informatics.

 

PACS Administrator Education and Training Requirements

A PACS Administrator typically requires a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as health information management, computer science, or healthcare administration.

In addition, they need to have a deep understanding of medical imaging technology, and data management as the PACS system deals with the storage and retrieval of medical images.

Familiarity with DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) standards and HL7 (Health Level Seven International) standards is often required, as these are commonly used in medical imaging technology.

For some higher level positions or those in larger healthcare facilities, a master’s degree in health informatics, healthcare management, or a related field may be required.

Additionally, obtaining certification such as Certified Imaging Informatics Professional (CIIP) or PACS System Analyst (PSA) can greatly enhance a candidate’s prospects.

Continued education and training in the latest advancements in medical imaging technology and data management is crucial for PACS Administrators, indicating their commitment to ongoing learning and staying current in their field.

 

PACS Administrator Salary Expectations

A PACS Administrator earns an average salary of $71,860 (USD) per year.

This salary can fluctuate based on factors such as the individual’s level of experience, specific qualifications, and the geographical location of the job.

Certain industries or companies might also offer higher compensation for this role.

 

PACS Administrator Job Description FAQs

What skills are required to be a PACS Administrator?

A PACS Administrator should have a strong understanding of radiology and imaging procedures.

They must have technical skills and be familiar with Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS).

Strong problem-solving skills are necessary to troubleshoot any system issues.

They should also have excellent communication skills for training staff and interfacing with various departments.

 

What educational qualifications does a PACS Administrator need?

A bachelor’s degree in health information technology, radiologic technology, or a related field is typically required for a PACS Administrator.

Many employers also prefer candidates with some experience in radiology or healthcare IT.

Certifications like Certified Imaging Informatics Professional (CIIP) may also be preferred.

 

What should you look for in a PACS Administrator resume?

A PACS Administrator’s resume should include their educational qualifications, certifications, and relevant work experience.

Look for experience with PACS and radiology, as well as any other relevant healthcare IT systems.

The resume should also highlight their problem-solving skills, ability to train staff, and familiarity with healthcare regulations.

 

What qualities make a good PACS Administrator?

A good PACS Administrator is technically proficient and has a strong understanding of radiology procedures.

They should have a problem-solving mindset to troubleshoot any system issues.

Good communication skills are essential as they will often need to interface with various departments and train staff on the system.

They should also be detail-oriented, organized, and able to work under pressure.

 

Are PACS Administrators in demand?

Yes, PACS Administrators are in demand.

With the increase in digital imaging in healthcare, the need for professionals who can manage and maintain these systems is growing.

PACS Administrators play a crucial role in ensuring these systems are operating efficiently and effectively, making them an integral part of the healthcare team.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you an in-depth look at the essential role of a PACS Administrator.

Guess what?

It’s not just about managing medical imaging systems.

It’s about shaping the healthcare industry’s digital landscape, one system at a time.

With our comprehensive PACS Administrator job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your perfect tool to create precise job postings or refine your resume to a tee.

Remember:

Every system you manage contributes to the larger healthcare story.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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