Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists
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.
Common Job Titles
- MRI Coordinator (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Coordinator)
- MRI QA Coordinator (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Quality Assurance Coordinator)
- MRI Tech (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technician)
- MRI Technologist (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners and consoles in clinical settings while ensuring patient safety and image quality standards.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate MRI image quality and anatomical visualization during scanning procedures to ensure diagnostic accuracy and completeness.Proficient
- Hands-onCoordinate patient positioning and immobilization techniques using specialized MRI coils and positioning devices to optimize image acquisition.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate patient-centered care with technical imaging requirements when balancing scan time constraints with patient comfort needs.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess MRI equipment performance and calibration accuracy through quality control testing and phantom imaging protocols.Proficient
- MindsetEngage patients experiencing anxiety or claustrophobia by explaining procedures and providing reassurance throughout the MRI examination.Developing
- Hands-onExecute intravenous administration of gadolinium contrast agents following safety protocols and monitoring for adverse reactions.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze patient history and clinical indications to determine appropriate scanning protocols and imaging parameters.Developing
- KnowledgeApply knowledge of MRI physics and safety principles to screen patients for contraindications and magnetic field hazards.Developing
- KnowledgeOperate electronic medical record (EMR) and radiology information systems to document patient data, scanning parameters, and examination results accurately.Developing
- Hands-onPerform continuous monitoring of patient physiological status using pulse oximeters, capnographs, and telemetry during MRI procedures.Developing
- MindsetParticipate in interdisciplinary collaboration with radiologists and referring physicians to clarify imaging protocols and address patient-specific clinical concerns.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
41,530
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $64,910. 25th percentile: U.S. $78,150. 50th percentile: U.S. $88,180. 75th percentile: U.S. $102,440. 90th percentile: U.S. $121,420. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $64,910 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $121,420 |
| Workers on average earn | $91,020 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service4.2/5
- English Language4.0/5
- Physics4.0/5
- Computers and Electronics3.6/5
- Public Safety and Security3.5/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- MEDITECH software
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Word
- eClinicalWorks EHR software
Technology Skills
- Appointment scheduling software
- Electronic medical record EMR software
- GE Healthcare Centricity EMR
- Medical image processing software
- Radiology information systems (RIS)
- Teleradiology systems
- Web browser software
Tools & Equipment
- Capnographs
- Carbon dioxide monitors
- Clinical imaging workstations
- Crash carts
- Dosimetry badges
- Emergency contrast reaction kits
- Fluoroptic thermometry systems
- Functional magnetic resonance imaging fMRI scanners