Sleep technologists assist sleep specialists in the assessment, monitoring, diagnosis, and prevention of sleep-related disorders. Sleep techs work with polysomnographs, positive airway pressure devices, out-of-center sleep testing devices, oximeters, capnographs, actigraphs, nocturnal oxygen, screening devices, and other sleep analysis tools. Sleep Techs explain procedures to patients, connect and remove sensors on patients, and record information from the machines while the patient is sleeping. They will also take notes about the patient as they sleep and send test results to a sleep doctor who will suggest a treatment.

Sleep technologists are credentialed by the American Board of Sleep Medicine. If a Sleep Tech is a respiratory therapist, they may be credentialed by the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists or the National Board for Respiratory Care. A degree from a Polysomnographic technology program is a precursor for certification. Traveling sleep techs must be eligible to work in the U.S. and have the level of education and experience as required by the hiring facility.

Sleep Technology, sometimes called Polysomnographic Technology, is an allied healthcare specialty that assists physicians and other medical professionals in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders. They may work in sleep centers, labs for sleep-related breathing disorders, academic and industry research settings, home environments, hospitals, or non-facility-based settings.

In addition to setting up and monitoring sleep tests, the sleep technologist may also perform patient scheduling; supply management; equipment maintenance, record-keeping, training and education of colleagues and patients.

Ziprecruiter reports that permanent staff Sleep Techs made $48,971 average annual salary in 2020. The average pay range varies based on skill level, location and years of experience.