RPFT Syllabus: What Only Top Registered Pulmonary Specialists See

Embarking on the journey to become a registered pulmonary specialist is a commitment to excellence in respiratory care. It signifies a dedication to mastering the intricate art and science of assessing lung function, a critical skill that directly impacts patient diagnosis and treatment. Among the most prestigious credentials in this field is the Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist (RPFT) certification, offered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).

This long-form guide is meticulously crafted to illuminate the NBRC RPFT certification exam syllabus, offering an unparalleled domain breakdown and topic weight focus. Designed for ambitious professionals, it details exactly what only top registered pulmonary specialists see: a comprehensive, analytical, and study-oriented roadmap to success. Whether you are an aspiring technologist or a seasoned professional seeking to validate your expertise, understanding the RPFT syllabus is your first and most crucial step toward achieving this esteemed certification.

The Pivotal Role of a Registered Pulmonary Specialist

Becoming a registered pulmonary specialist, specifically a Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist (RPFT), places you at the forefront of diagnostic respiratory medicine. These specialists are indispensable members of healthcare teams, responsible for performing complex pulmonary function tests (PFTs) that provide vital data to physicians. Their expertise ensures accurate diagnoses of lung diseases such as asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis, and interstitial lung disease, guiding appropriate treatment plans and monitoring disease progression.

The role extends beyond simply operating equipment. A skilled RPFT must possess a deep understanding of cardiopulmonary physiology, patient assessment techniques, sophisticated testing methodologies, and meticulous data interpretation. They interact directly with patients, often those experiencing respiratory distress, requiring empathy, clear communication, and unwavering professionalism. The precision and reliability of the tests they conduct are paramount, directly influencing patient outcomes.

Why RPFT Certification is a Game-Changer for Your Career

For individuals aspiring to truly excel in the realm of pulmonary diagnostics, the RPFT certification is not merely an optional credential; it is a transformative professional milestone. The certification signifies a rigorous, nationally recognized standard of competency that distinguishes certified technologists from their non-certified counterparts. It acts as a powerful testament to an individual's advanced knowledge, practical skills, and commitment to the highest levels of patient care.

The benefits of holding the RPFT certification are manifold. Firstly, it significantly enhances career opportunities, opening doors to advanced positions in hospitals, clinics, research facilities, and academic institutions. Employers actively seek out RPFT-credentialed professionals, recognizing their expertise as a valuable asset. Secondly, it often correlates with increased earning potential, reflecting the specialized skills and responsibilities associated with the role. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare occupations, including those in respiratory care, are projected to grow, emphasizing the value of such specialized credentials. You can explore further insights into occupational outlooks for healthcare professionals through the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website: Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Beyond career advancement and salary expectations, the RPFT certification instills a profound sense of professional pride and confidence. It validates years of dedication and hard work, reassuring both the technologist and their patients of the quality of care being provided. It's a clear signal of your proficiency as a registered pulmonary specialist.

Understanding the NBRC RPFT Certification Exam

The National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) is the leading credentialing body for respiratory care professionals in the United States. Its mission is to ensure that healthcare providers have access to competent professionals, and the RPFT certification is a cornerstone of this commitment. The NBRC provides a detailed outline of the exam to guide candidates.

The RPFT examination assesses the knowledge and skills necessary for competent practice as a Pulmonary Function Technologist. It's designed to challenge candidates on their understanding of complex physiological principles, technical procedures, and interpretive skills. This comprehensive assessment ensures that only highly qualified individuals achieve the credential, reinforcing the trust placed in a registered pulmonary specialist.

For a detailed breakdown of the official NBRC Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist exam, including eligibility and test content, you can visit the official NBRC website: NBRC RPFT Exam Information.

NBRC RPFT Exam Eligibility Requirements

To ensure a high standard of practice, the NBRC has established specific eligibility pathways for candidates wishing to take the RPFT examination. These requirements generally involve a combination of education, experience, and existing credentials. While exact requirements can vary and are subject to NBRC's official guidelines, common pathways include:

• Possession of the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credential and completion of an NBRC-approved pulmonary function technology program.
• Possession of the CRT credential and specific experience working in a pulmonary function laboratory.
• Possession of other recognized healthcare credentials (e.g., Registered Respiratory Therapist - RRT, Registered Nurse - RN) coupled with substantial clinical experience in pulmonary function testing.
• Graduation from an accredited respiratory care program or other relevant healthcare degree combined with specific PFT clinical experience.

It is crucial for all prospective candidates to consult the most current NBRC eligibility requirements directly on their website to confirm their individual pathway to becoming a registered pulmonary specialist.

Exam Format, Cost, and Validity

The NBRC RPFT examination is typically a computer-based, multiple-choice assessment. It is designed to evaluate a candidate's recall of facts, understanding of concepts, and ability to apply knowledge to clinical scenarios. The exam is structured to cover various content domains, with a specific number of questions allocated to each domain, reflecting their relative importance in practice.

• Exam Type: Computer-based, multiple-choice.
• Number of Questions: Typically around 110-140 questions, including a small number of pretest items that do not count towards the final score.
• Time Limit: Usually around 2-3 hours.
• Passing Score: Determined by a criterion-referenced method, meaning candidates must achieve a predetermined standard rather than scoring relative to other test-takers.
• Exam Cost: The NBRC RPFT exam cost and fees are subject to change, but candidates can expect a fee for initial application and examination. Retake fees apply if a candidate does not pass on the first attempt. Current fee schedules are always published on the NBRC's official website.
• Certification Validity: The RPFT credential, once earned, requires ongoing maintenance through the NBRC's credential maintenance program. This typically involves continuing education requirements over a multi-year period to ensure that a registered pulmonary specialist remains current with best practices and advancements in the field.

Deep Dive into the RPFT Syllabus: Understanding the Domains

The core of your preparation for becoming a registered pulmonary specialist lies in a thorough understanding of the NBRC RPFT certification exam syllabus. This detailed outline defines the specific knowledge and skills expected of a competent Pulmonary Function Technologist. The syllabus is typically organized into several key domains, each carrying a specific weight on the exam. Mastering each domain is crucial for success.

For more specific details regarding the NBRC RPFT certification exam syllabus and additional resources, you can visit our dedicated page: NBRC RPFT Certification Exam Syllabus.

Domain 1: Patient Data Collection and Assessment (Approx. 20-25% of Exam)

This foundational domain emphasizes the critical initial steps in pulmonary function testing: gathering comprehensive patient information and performing a relevant physical assessment. It's not just about what tests to run, but understanding who the patient is and how their condition might influence test outcomes and interpretation.

• Review of Patient History: Understanding relevant medical history (e.g., smoking, occupational exposures, previous diagnoses, surgical history), current medications (especially bronchodilators, steroids, sedatives), allergies, and recent respiratory infections. Identifying contraindications for specific tests (e.g., recent myocardial infarction, unstable angina, aneurysm, recent eye/abdominal surgery, pneumothorax).
• Physical Assessment Relevant to PFTs: Basic respiratory system assessment, including observation of breathing patterns, use of accessory muscles, auscultation of lung sounds, and assessment of general patient demeanor and ability to cooperate.
• Patient Education and Instruction: Crucial for obtaining valid and reproducible results. Technologists must effectively explain procedures, elicit maximal effort, and provide clear, concise instructions for maneuvers like forced exhalation or breath-holding.
• Anthropometric Data Collection: Accurate measurement of height, weight, age, and gender, which are essential for calculating predicted normal values. Understanding how these factors influence lung volumes and flows.
• Patient Comfort and Safety: Ensuring the patient is relaxed, properly positioned, and understands safety precautions. Recognizing and responding to adverse reactions during testing.

A thorough understanding of this domain ensures that a registered pulmonary specialist can effectively prepare patients for testing, anticipate challenges, and contextualize results within the patient's overall clinical picture.

Domain 2: Pulmonary Function Testing Procedures and Techniques (Approx. 30-35% of Exam)

This is often the largest domain, focusing on the practical application of various PFTs. It requires not only knowledge of how to perform tests but also an understanding of the physiological principles behind them, common pitfalls, and quality assurance specific to each procedure.

Spirometry

The cornerstone of PFTs, spirometry measures lung volumes and airflow. Candidates must understand:

• Maneuver Execution: Proper technique for forced vital capacity (FVC) maneuvers, including maximal inspiration, forced exhalation, and sustained effort.
• Key Parameters: Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1), FEV1/FVC ratio, Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF), Forced Expiratory Flow at 25-75% (FEF25-75%).
• Bronchodilator Responsiveness Testing: Procedure for pre- and post-bronchodilator spirometry, interpretation of significant response.
• Quality Control: Understanding ATS/ERS standardization guidelines, reproducibility criteria, common errors (e.g., hesitation, glottic closure, submaximal effort, leaks, coughs) and their impact on results.

Lung Volume Measurements

These tests quantify the amount of air in the lungs at different phases of the respiratory cycle.

• Body Plethysmography: Principle (Boyle's Law), procedure for measuring Thoracic Gas Volume (TGV) and calculating Total Lung Capacity (TLC), Functional Residual Capacity (FRC), and Residual Volume (RV). Understanding its advantages and limitations.
• Helium Dilution: Principle (closed-circuit, inert gas wash-in), procedure for measuring FRC and calculating TLC/RV. Understanding equilibration time and potential for underestimation in severe obstruction.
• Nitrogen Washout: Principle (open-circuit, inert gas wash-out), procedure for measuring FRC. Understanding common errors and interpretation.
• Interpretation of Lung Volumes: Differentiating between normal, restrictive, and hyperinflated patterns.

Diffusing Capacity of the Lung for Carbon Monoxide (DLCO)

Measures the ability of the lungs to transfer gas from the alveoli to the red blood cells.

• Principle: Single-breath method, using a tracer gas (CO) and an inert gas (e.g., Helium or Methane).
• Procedure: Proper breath-hold duration, gas sampling, and calibration.
• Factors Affecting DLCO: Hemoglobin levels, lung volume, pulmonary capillary blood volume, altitude, COHb, and smoking. Understanding corrections and potential sources of error.
• Quality Control: Reproducibility and validity criteria.

Bronchial Challenge Testing (e.g., Methacholine Challenge)

Used to diagnose airway hyperresponsiveness.

• Principle: Inhalation of increasing doses of a bronchoconstrictor agent, monitoring spirometric changes.
• Procedure: Safe administration, monitoring patient response, criteria for test termination, and post-test bronchodilator administration.
• Interpretation: Calculating PC20 (provocative concentration causing a 20% drop in FEV1).
• Safety: Understanding risks, contraindications, and emergency protocols.

Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Analysis

While not a primary PFT, understanding ABGs is crucial for comprehensive patient assessment in pulmonary function labs.

• Interpretation: pH, PaCO2, PaO2, HCO3-, Base Excess, SaO2. Differentiating respiratory and metabolic acidosis/alkalosis.
• Oxygenation Assessment: A-a gradient, PaO2/FiO2 ratio.

Exercise Testing (Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing - CPET)

Advanced testing used to evaluate exercise capacity and identify limitations (cardiac vs. pulmonary).

• Principle: Progressive exercise challenge with continuous monitoring of ventilatory, cardiovascular, and metabolic parameters.
• Parameters Monitored: VO2, VCO2, VE, HR, BP, ECG, SpO2.
• Interpretation Basics: Ventilatory threshold, oxygen pulse, breathing reserve, causes of exercise limitation.

This domain demands precision, attention to detail, and a deep theoretical understanding to ensure reliable data, making it central to the practice of a registered pulmonary specialist.

Domain 3: Equipment Operation, Quality Control, and Maintenance (Approx. 20-25% of Exam)

A registered pulmonary specialist must be intimately familiar with the sophisticated equipment used in pulmonary function laboratories. This domain covers the operational aspects, ensuring accurate and reliable results through proper calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

• Principles of PFT Equipment: Understanding the basic physics and engineering behind various transducers (e.g., pneumotachometers, turbine flow sensors, ultrasonic flow sensors), gas analyzers (CO, He, N2, O2), and plethysmographs.
• Calibration Procedures: Daily, weekly, or monthly calibration protocols for flow/volume, gas analyzers, and pressure transducers. Use of calibration syringes and certified gases. Understanding the impact of environmental factors (temperature, humidity, barometric pressure) and BTPS correction.
• Quality Control (QC) Programs: Implementing and interpreting biological controls (e.g., healthy subjects, simulators) and technical controls (e.g., gas mixtures, known volumes) to monitor equipment performance and identify drift or bias. Establishing acceptable ranges for QC measurements.
• Troubleshooting Common Equipment Malfunctions: Identifying and resolving issues such as leaks, calibration failures, sensor errors, software glitches, and gas supply problems. Knowing when to contact service technicians.
• Infection Control and Sterilization: Adhering to strict protocols for cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization of PFT equipment (e.g., mouthpieces, filters, breathing circuits) to prevent cross-contamination. Understanding different levels of disinfection required for various components.
• Data Acquisition Systems: Familiarity with software interfaces, data storage, and archiving.

Proficiency in this domain ensures that the data collected by the registered pulmonary specialist is consistently accurate and trustworthy, a cornerstone of effective diagnosis.

Domain 4: Data Interpretation and Reporting (Approx. 15-20% of Exam)

Collecting data is only half the battle; the ability to accurately interpret and report findings is what transforms raw numbers into meaningful clinical insights. This domain tests the candidate's analytical skills and understanding of various disease patterns.

• Understanding Predicted Normal Values: Knowledge of how predicted values are derived (e.g., NHANES III, GLI-2012) and their importance in interpreting patient results. Understanding Z-scores and percentiles.
• Identification of Obstructive Ventilatory Defects: Characterized by reduced airflow (low FEV1/FVC ratio). Understanding common causes (e.g., asthma, COPD) and severity grading (e.g., GOLD stages for COPD).
• Identification of Restrictive Ventilatory Defects: Characterized by reduced lung volumes (low TLC, FVC) with preserved or increased airflow (normal/high FEV1/FVC ratio). Understanding causes (e.g., pulmonary fibrosis, neuromuscular diseases, obesity, chest wall abnormalities).
• Identification of Mixed Ventilatory Defects: Presence of both obstructive and restrictive components.
• DLCO Interpretation: Understanding causes of reduced DLCO (e.g., emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis, anemia, pulmonary vascular disease) and increased DLCO.
• Bronchodilator Responsiveness Interpretation: Differentiating reversible airway obstruction from fixed obstruction based on post-bronchodilator spirometry.
• ABG Interpretation: Correlating PFT results with blood gas analysis to assess gas exchange abnormalities.
• Severity Grading: Applying established guidelines (e.g., ATS/ERS) to grade the severity of ventilatory impairment.
• Integration of PFT Results with Clinical Information: Synthesizing all available data (patient history, physical exam, PFTs, ABGs, imaging) to formulate a comprehensive interpretation.
• Reporting Standards: Producing clear, concise, and clinically relevant reports that summarize findings and offer diagnostic impressions.

This interpretive skill distinguishes a truly expert registered pulmonary specialist, enabling them to contribute significantly to patient management.

Domain 5: Safety, Infection Control, and Professionalism (Approx. 5-10% of Exam)

This domain covers the critical aspects of maintaining a safe testing environment for both patients and personnel, adhering to ethical standards, and demonstrating professional conduct. While a smaller percentage, these topics are fundamental to responsible practice.

• Patient Safety: Monitoring patient's vital signs and comfort during tests, recognizing and responding to adverse events (e.g., syncope, bronchospasm, hyperventilation), and knowing when to terminate a test.
• Technologist Safety: Awareness of hazards (e.g., biohazards, electrical safety, sharps disposal) and adherence to personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines.
• Infection Control Procedures: Detailed understanding of universal precautions, hand hygiene, cleaning and disinfection protocols for equipment surfaces and re-usable components. Understanding airborne, droplet, and contact precautions.
• Ethical Considerations: Maintaining patient confidentiality (HIPAA), informed consent, professional boundaries, and acting with integrity.
• Quality Assurance Programs: Participation in ongoing QA activities, internal and external audits, and continuous improvement initiatives within the PFT lab.
• Legal Aspects: Basic understanding of regulatory standards and guidelines relevant to PFT labs.

Mastery of this domain ensures that the registered pulmonary specialist operates within a framework of safety, ethics, and high professional standards.

Strategic Preparation for the NBRC RPFT Exam

Passing the RPFT exam requires more than just memorization; it demands a strategic, disciplined approach to study and preparation. To truly become a registered pulmonary specialist, you need to immerse yourself in the material and develop effective test-taking skills.

Crafting Your NBRC Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist Study Guide

Developing a personalized study guide is paramount. Start by outlining each domain and sub-topic from the syllabus. For each topic, identify your current level of understanding and allocate study time accordingly. Use various resources to fill knowledge gaps. A comprehensive study guide should integrate concepts from different domains, as the exam often presents scenarios that require a holistic understanding.

Your study guide should include:

• Detailed notes on physiological principles.
• Step-by-step procedures for each PFT.
• Formulas and calculations relevant to PFT interpretation.
• Summaries of ATS/ERS standards and guidelines.
• Review of common disease patterns and their PFT manifestations.

Best Study Materials for NBRC RPFT

Leverage a diverse range of study materials to strengthen your knowledge:

• Textbooks: Utilize authoritative textbooks on pulmonary physiology, respiratory care, and pulmonary function testing. These provide foundational knowledge.
• NBRC Resources: The NBRC website offers exam content outlines, practice questions, and sometimes recommended reading lists. This is an invaluable resource.
• Online Courses and Review Seminars: Many organizations offer structured online courses or live seminars specifically designed for RPFT exam preparation. These often provide concise summaries and highlight high-yield topics.
• Practice Exams and Question Banks: Engaging with RPFT practice exam online platforms is crucial. These simulate the actual exam environment and help you identify areas of weakness, manage time effectively, and become familiar with question formats.
• Flashcards and Mnemonics: Useful for memorizing formulas, normal values, and key concepts.
• Study Groups: Collaborating with peers can provide different perspectives, clarify difficult concepts, and boost motivation.

Tips to Pass NBRC RPFT Exam

Success on the RPFT exam hinges on strategic preparation and effective test-taking techniques. Here are some key tips for any aspiring registered pulmonary specialist:

• Understand the "Why": Don't just memorize; understand the underlying physiological principles behind each test and interpretation.
• Master Standardization: Pay close attention to ATS/ERS standardization guidelines for test performance and quality control. These are heavily tested.
• Practice Calculations: Be comfortable with all relevant formulas and unit conversions, as calculations are common.
• Time Management: Practice answering questions under timed conditions to improve speed and efficiency.
• Review Explanations: When taking practice exams, don't just note incorrect answers. Thoroughly review the explanations for both correct and incorrect choices to deepen your understanding.
• Simulate Test Day: Replicate the exam environment as closely as possible during your final practice sessions.
• Prioritize Weaknesses: Focus your study time on the domains and topics where you feel least confident.
• Rest and Nutrition: Ensure adequate rest and maintain a healthy diet, especially in the weeks leading up to the exam.

Effective preparation for the NBRC Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist examination also involves exploring various strategies. For general advice on preparing for demanding certification exams, consider reviewing resources like comprehensive study tactics.

RPFT Certification Exam Questions and Answers: A Strategic Approach

Approaching RPFT certification exam questions and answers strategically can significantly improve your performance. The NBRC exam often includes questions that go beyond simple recall, requiring critical thinking and application of knowledge to complex clinical scenarios.

When encountering a question, first identify the core concept being tested. Look for keywords and phrases that point to specific PFTs, physiological principles, or disease states. For scenario-based questions, dissect the patient's presentation, history, and initial test results to narrow down possibilities. Eliminate obviously incorrect answers to improve your chances, even if you're not immediately certain of the correct one.

Practice interpreting graphs and tables, as these are frequently used to present PFT results. Understand how to identify obstructive, restrictive, or mixed patterns from spirometry flow-volume loops and volume-time curves. Similarly, be adept at interpreting DLCO results and lung volumes. The more exposure you have to diverse question types through a good RPFT practice exam online, the better equipped you will be on exam day.

Beyond Certification: The Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist Career Path

Earning your RPFT certification is not the end; it's the beginning of a rewarding and dynamic career path as a registered pulmonary specialist. The expertise gained makes you highly valuable in various healthcare settings.

Roles and Responsibilities of an RPFT

A typical Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist job description includes performing a full range of diagnostic tests, calibrating and maintaining equipment, interpreting test results, educating patients, and collaborating with physicians and other healthcare professionals. They often specialize in specific areas, such as pediatric PFTs, sleep studies, or cardiopulmonary exercise testing. The role demands precision, attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and a compassionate approach to patient care.

Salary Expectations and Career Advancement

Pulmonary function technologist salary expectations vary based on location, experience, and the type of facility. However, holding the RPFT credential generally positions you at the higher end of the salary spectrum for respiratory care professionals. With experience, RPFTs can advance into supervisory roles, PFT lab management, clinical education, or even research positions. The continuous evolution of respiratory medicine also offers opportunities for specialized training and further certifications, broadening career horizons for a dedicated registered pulmonary specialist.

Conclusion

The journey to becoming a registered pulmonary specialist through RPFT certification is rigorous, but profoundly rewarding. This comprehensive guide has dissected the NBRC RPFT certification exam syllabus, offering a deep dive into each critical domain and providing a structured, analytical framework for your study. By understanding the intricate details of patient assessment, testing procedures, equipment management, data interpretation, and safety protocols, you are not just preparing for an exam; you are cultivating the expertise that defines a top-tier pulmonary function technologist.

The RPFT credential is a beacon of excellence, signifying your mastery of advanced pulmonary diagnostics and your unwavering commitment to superior patient care. Embrace this challenge, utilize the study strategies outlined, and prepare to elevate your career to new heights. Your dedication to understanding this syllabus is your commitment to joining the ranks of truly distinguished registered pulmonary specialist professionals.

Ready to master your pulmonary function knowledge? Explore more resources and preparation materials to confidently approach your certification exam.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the NBRC RPFT certification, and why is it important?

The NBRC RPFT certification stands for Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist, a credential awarded by the National Board for Respiratory Care. It validates a professional's advanced knowledge and skills in performing and interpreting comprehensive pulmonary function tests. It's crucial because it demonstrates a nationally recognized standard of competency, enhances career opportunities, often leads to higher salary potential, and assures employers and patients of high-quality diagnostic care by a registered pulmonary specialist.

2. What are the main domains covered in the NBRC RPFT exam syllabus?

The NBRC RPFT exam syllabus typically covers five main domains: Patient Data Collection & Assessment; Pulmonary Function Testing Procedures & Techniques (including spirometry, lung volumes, DLCO, challenge tests); Equipment Operation, Quality Control, & Maintenance; Data Interpretation & Reporting; and Safety, Infection Control, & Professionalism. Each domain carries a specific weight, reflecting its importance in the daily practice of a registered pulmonary specialist.

3. What are the eligibility requirements to take the RPFT exam?

Eligibility for the RPFT exam generally requires a combination of education, experience, and existing credentials. Common pathways include holding the CRT or RRT credential along with specific clinical experience in a pulmonary function laboratory, or completion of an NBRC-approved PFT program. It is essential to consult the official NBRC website for the most current and detailed eligibility criteria.

4. How should I prepare for the RPFT certification exam?

Effective preparation involves creating a detailed study guide based on the NBRC syllabus, utilizing a variety of resources such as textbooks, online courses, and NBRC-provided materials. Crucially, engage in extensive practice with RPFT practice exam online platforms to familiarize yourself with question formats, manage time, and identify areas for improvement. Understanding the physiological principles and ATS/ERS standardization guidelines is key to becoming a successful registered pulmonary specialist.

5. What kind of career opportunities can I expect after becoming a Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist?

After achieving RPFT certification, a registered pulmonary specialist can expect diverse career opportunities in hospitals, outpatient clinics, research facilities, and academic institutions. Roles often involve performing advanced PFTs, interpreting results, quality assurance, patient education, and collaboration with medical teams. With experience, pathways to supervisory roles, lab management, clinical education, or specialized areas like cardiopulmonary exercise testing are common, often accompanied by increased pulmonary function technologist salary expectations.