MRI technologists are specialized medical imaging professionals who operate magnetic resonance imaging scanners to provide detailed images of internal body structures. Their role is increasingly important as MRI scans continue to be the preferred imaging process for cardiac, neurological, and musculoskeletal diagnostics.
This specialized imaging role is in growing demand nationwide and across different clinical settings. The need for MRI technologists (sometimes referred to as MRI technicians or MRI techs) is expected to increase by five percent before 2034, with rural areas and weekend/evening shift positions in high demand, due to a persistent difficulty in filling positions.
Some employers are training their own MRI technologists from in-house candidates because the position is so highly needed. Read on for a more detailed understanding of the overall career outlook for MRI technologists and why the position is a personally and professionally rewarding career choice.
MRI Technologist vs. Technician
The titles of MRI technologists and technicians are often used interchangeably, but the roles do have distinct differences. The term “technologist” reflects more formal education and a wider scope of responsibility.
Although both roles are involved with medical imaging, only MRI technologists operate the advanced imaging equipment and perform most patient-facing tasks. An MRI technician, on the other hand, typically focuses on equipment maintenance and has less direct patient interaction.
Because of these differences, an MRI technologist has more earning potential, but the path to certification is longer. A traditional path to becoming an MRI tech takes 2 to 4 years, but that path is shorter for radiology technologists who are looking to specialize.
Job Responsibilities of an MRI Tech
MRI techs have structured and collaborative work shifts. The day-to-day routine of an MRI tech varies by facility, but many of their responsibilities overlap across specialties. A few of the typical job responsibilities of an MRI tech include:
- Morning quality control (calibrating equipment before patient-facing tasks)
- Reviewing physician orders (verifying protocol and focus)
- Medical history and safety screening (communicating with patient)
- Coil placement and patient positioning (assisting patient with actual scan and managing receiver coils)
- Running the MRI scan (manually operating the equipment from a console outside the magnet room)
- Administering contrast agents (starting an IV for contrast flow when needed)
- Documentation and quality inspection (checking for clarity after the scan and documenting procedural notes)
Routine Procedures and Tests
MRI techs, or magnetic resonance imaging specialists, assist in operating complex and advanced magnetic resonance imaging scanners. The scans they are involved in day-to-day focus on three main areas:
- Neurological
- Brain MRIs
- Spine MRIs
- Magnetic resonance angiography (MRAs, specialized imaging of the blood vessels of the brain and neck)
- Musculoskeletal
- Knee and shoulder MRI
- Hip and ankle MRI
- Abdominal/Cardiovascular
- Liver, kidney, and pancreas MRI
- Pelvic MRI
These non-invasive scans produce diagnostic images without using radiation. MRI technologists can perform scans in each of these areas or specialize in one type.
Where Does an MRI Technologist Typically Work?
Most MRI tech jobs are in hospitals, but many also work in medical laboratories, diagnostic imaging centers, specialty clinics, and even mobile units.
While almost every type of hospital hires medical imaging professionals, some specialty hospitals have an even greater need for this position. Those include academic medical centers, regional trauma centers, pediatric hospitals, and orthopedic/spine centers.
At each of these different facilities, MRI techs typically work daytime shifts of 8 or 12 hours with most weekends off. At some facilities, MRI technologists work three 12-hour shifts or five 8-hour shifts and rotate weekend call coverage.
Career Benefits of MRI Technology
Becoming an MRI technologist is a rewarding career choice with growing benefits. Some of those include:
Competitive Compensation
The annual compensation of MRI specialists varies by setting and location. The average annual base salary is estimated at $110,285, according to ZipRecruiter, with an average hourly rate of $53.02. That salary potential can grow based on facility type, travel contracts, competitive locations, advanced certifications, and more.
High Demand
The demand for MRI tech jobs is increasing faster than the average rate across all occupations. This growth is projected to be about 15,400 openings for radiologic and MRI technologists each year through 2034.
Top-Paying MRI Technologist Roles
Specialized and leadership roles in MRI technology have a higher earning potential than general MRI tech roles. The highest-paid positions among MRI technologists include:
- Travel MRI techs
- Outpatient care centers
- Cardiac and neuro specialists
- Lead/management roles
Top-Paying Travel Locations for MRI Techs
Working as a travel MRI tech offers unique career experience, competitive compensation, and the opportunity to experience new places for a short time. Travel contracts often include location-specific stipends or specific bonuses that increase overall contract compensation, so make sure to consider all factors when comparing options for the right opportunity.
Here are some of the top states to consider for high salaries or widely available job opportunities:
- New Hampshire
- Massachusetts
- Texas
- Washington
- Georgia
- Florida
- Virginia
- New York
Ready To Find the Right MRI Tech Job?
Are you ready to find an MRI tech position that fits your career goals and situation? Are you hoping to find a travel contract or local position with competitive offerings and a vetted work placement?
Supplemental Health Care has over 40 years of experience helping providers find their right fit. Our dedicated team connects providers with trusted hospitals and clinics nationwide, with competitive contracts and full support through the negotiation phase and contract fulfillment. Search here for your next role as an MRI tech or to learn more about the field. Reach out today to learn more about this promising career!
Top FAQs About MRI Tech Careers
Here are a few frequently asked questions about the role and career of MRI technologists:
What does an MRI technologist do?
An MRI technologist uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to capture detailed images of the body. Those images are then used to help physicians diagnose, monitor, or plan treatment for a variety of medical conditions.
What is the difference between an MRI technician and an MRI technologist?
An MRI technologist is an advanced position that involves operating complex equipment and administering contrast agents to capture diagnostic imaging. An MRI technician, on the other hand, has a more limited scope and focuses mainly on equipment management or practical tasks. Technologists often have advanced credentials and more competitive compensation.
How do you become an MRI technologist?
There are two ways to become an MRI technologist: a fast-track path or a traditional path after first working as a radiologic technologist. The fast-track requires a high school diploma or GED, followed by coursework with a program accredited by the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT). Then, after 1,000 supervised clinical hours and training, candidates must pass the national ARMRIT exam to become credentialed.
The more traditional path takes 2 to 4 years. After earning an associate or bachelor’s degree from an accredited Radiologic Technology or Radiology program, candidates then pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam first to become a registered radiographer. From there, candidates specialize in MRI by completing a post-primary program or on-the-job cross-training before taking the ARRT MRI specialty exam. Many hospitals accept either the ARRT or the ARMRIT credentials.
How much does an MRI technologist make?
The average annual base salary is estimated at $110,285, according to ZipRecruiter, with an average hourly rate of $53.02. That salary potential can grow based on contract details, travel positions, facility type, locations, certifications, and more.
Where are the best states to work as a travel MRI technologist?
Some of the top states to consider for competitive contracts, high salaries, or high availability of job opportunities include:
- New Hampshire
- Massachusetts
- Texas
- Washington
- Georgia
- Florida
- Virginia
- New York
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