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Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist

All About Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists

Position Description Operate Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners. Monitor patient safety and comfort, and view images of area being scanned to ensure quality of pictures. May administer gadolinium contrast dosage intravenously. May interview patient, explain MRI procedures, and position patient on examining table. May enter into the computer data such as patient history, anatomical area to be scanned, orientation specified, and position of entry.

MRI Tech Responsibilities

  • Take brief medical histories from patients.
  • Operate optical systems to capture dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images, such as functional brain imaging, real-time organ motion tracking, or musculoskeletal anatomy and trajectory visualization.
  • Develop or otherwise produce film records of magnetic resonance images.
  • Inject intravenously contrast dyes, such as gadolinium contrast, in accordance with scope of practice.
  • Operate Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners.
  • Calibrate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) console or peripheral hardware.

Qualities of a MRI Tech

When polled, Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:

Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

Operation Monitoring: Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

  • Medical Imaging Director
  • MRI Specialist (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Specialist)
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging Quality Assurance Coordinator (MRI Quality Assurance Coordinator)
  • Technologist
  • MRI Special Procedures Technologist (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Special Procedures Technologist)

Job Demand for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists

In 2016, there was an estimated number of 36,600 jobs in the United States for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 13.4% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 4,900 new jobs for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist by 2026. There will be an estimated 2,500 positions for MRI Tech per year.

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The states with the most job growth for MRI Tech are Arizona, Utah, and Wyoming. Watch out if you plan on working in Vermont, Illinois, or Kansas. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.

Salary for a MRI Tech

The salary for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists ranges between about $50,220 and $99,180 a year.

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Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists who work in Washington, Hawaii, or California, make the highest salaries.

How much do Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists make in each U.S. state?

State Annual Mean Salary
Alabama $59,420
Alaska $85,730
Arizona $79,120
Arkansas $58,240
California $90,890
Colorado $79,100
Connecticut $78,840
Delaware $75,080
District of Columbia $84,800
Florida $63,190
Georgia $68,090
Hawaii $88,620
Idaho $70,320
Illinois $74,010
Indiana $64,710
Iowa $60,280
Kansas $64,960
Kentucky $67,980
Louisiana $60,520
Maine $72,750
Maryland $71,620
Massachusetts $84,880
Michigan $62,300
Minnesota $78,740
Mississippi $59,960
Missouri $63,400
Montana $69,940
Nebraska $67,210
Nevada $87,960
New Hampshire $73,400
New Jersey $81,650
New Mexico $71,850
New York $81,010
North Carolina $67,260
North Dakota $62,900
Ohio $65,100
Oklahoma $63,330
Oregon $87,480
Pennsylvania $65,460
Rhode Island $77,060
South Carolina $60,700
South Dakota $60,000
Tennessee $59,860
Texas $70,510
Utah $66,420
Vermont $81,030
Virginia $70,370
Washington $91,290
West Virginia $66,430
Wisconsin $68,080
Wyoming $64,430

Tools & Technologies Used by Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists

Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists:

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Office
  • Web browser software
  • MEDITECH software
  • Electronic medical record EMR software
  • Appointment scheduling software
  • GE Healthcare Centricity EMR
  • Teleradiology systems

Becoming a MRI Tech

What education or degrees do I need to become a Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist?

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How Long Does it Take to Become a MRI Tech?

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Who Employs Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists?

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Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists work in the following industries:

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References:

Image Credit: via Public domain

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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