Magnetic resonance imaging technologists
SOC Code: 29-2035Also known as:
Imaging Technologist, MRI Coordinator (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Coordinator), MRI QA Coordinator (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Quality Assurance Coordinator), MRI Radiographer (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Radiographer), MRI Special Procedures Technologist (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Special Procedures Technologist)
Median Annual Salary
$88,180
+7.1% growth (2024-2034)
3K
Openings/Year
44K
Current Jobs
What Magnetic resonance imaging technologists Do
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.
💰 Salary
$88,180
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+7.1%
Faster than average
🎓 Education
Associate's degree
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
3K
Projected average per year
👔 Work Experience
Less than 5 years
Required before entry
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
44,100
Projected Employment (2034)
47,200
Related Careers
Cardiovascular technologists and technicians
$67,260 •
+3.0% growth
Diagnostic medical sonographers
$89,340 •
+13.0% growth
Nuclear medicine technologists
$97,020 •
+3.0% growth
Radiologic technologists and technicians
$77,660 •
+4.3% growth
Health technologists and technicians, all other
$48,790 •
+5.2% growth
Top Skills Required
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Monitoring
Speaking
Operations Monitoring
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Review physicians' orders to confirm prescribed exams.
- Conduct screening interviews of patients to identify contraindications, such as ferrous objects, pregnancy, prosthetic heart valves, cardiac pacemakers, or tattoos.
- Select appropriate imaging techniques or coils to produce required images.
- Operate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners.
- Provide headphones or earplugs to patients to improve comfort and reduce unpleasant noise.
- Position patients on cradle, attaching immobilization devices, if needed, to ensure appropriate placement for imaging.
- Take brief medical histories from patients.
- Inspect images for quality, using magnetic resonance scanner equipment and laser camera.
- Intravenously inject contrast dyes, such as gadolinium contrast, in accordance with scope of practice.
- Test magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) equipment to ensure proper functioning and performance in accordance with specifications.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
Associate's degree
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
Associate's Degree
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Magnetic resonance imaging technologists
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a magnetic resonance imaging technologists:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology/Technician
1,055 degrees awarded •
65 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Magnetic resonance imaging technologists
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become magnetic resonance imaging technologists.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do magnetic resonance imaging technologists make?
The median annual salary for magnetic resonance imaging technologists is $88,180.
What education do magnetic resonance imaging technologists need?
Most magnetic resonance imaging technologists positions require a associate's degree.
Common degree programs include Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology/Technician.
Is becoming magnetic resonance imaging technologists a good career choice?
Magnetic resonance imaging technologists is projected to see +7.1% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is faster than average for all occupations. With approximately 2,600 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for magnetic resonance imaging technologists?
Top colleges for aspiring magnetic resonance imaging technologists include
Saint Louis University, Washburn University, University of New Mexico-Main Campus, University of Mississippi, Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to magnetic resonance imaging technologists?
Magnetic resonance imaging technologists may also be known as: Imaging Technologist, MRI Coordinator (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Coordinator), MRI QA Coordinator (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Quality Assurance Coordinator), MRI Radiographer (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Radiographer), MRI Special Procedures Technologist (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Special Procedures Technologist), MRI Specialist (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Specialist), MRI Tech (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technician), MRI Technologist (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist), Research MRI Technologist (Research Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist), Travel MRI Tech (Travel Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technician).
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.