What does a MRI Technologist do?

MRI technologists operate MRI scanners that take images of patients’ bodies to assist with diagnostic testing. They are responsible for presenting clear images to physicians to provide an accurate diagnosis to a patient. MRI technologists ensure they are in compliance with safety standards and explain the MRI process to patients. They will position and potentially sedate a patient to capture clear images of the body’s correct area. They remove and then replace IVs and catheters for the MRI process and maneuver the MRI equipment to capture accurate images.

MRI technologists monitor patients during scanning. They also monitor equipment functions and ensure they capture clear images so physicians can provide an accurate diagnosis. They also recognize abnormalities and irregularities in images and understand the difference between a quality image and one that needs to be retaken. MRI technologists need an associate's degree in MRI or radiology technology and experience with MRI equipment and patient care and a license and certification to work as an MRI technician.

What responsibilities are common for MRI Technologist jobs?
  • Attend staff meetings as requested 100% of the time.
  • Report any incident that seems unusual/deficient to supervisor and/or security.
  • Interact with all ancillary departments, nursing units and the EC.
  • Follow all proper policies, procedures, and protocols to ensure patient safety at all times.
  • Assist the Director with the administration of the MRI department.
  • Extensive interactions with all customer groups, including patients, families, referring community and other SHC employees.
  • Maintain the continuing education required for this position.
  • Perform staff evaluations while being involved in hiring, firing and disciplinary actions.
  • Under the direction of the MRI Team Leader, perform a variety of MRI procedures at a technical level not requiring constant supervision of technical detail.
  • Follow departmental cost control standards: monitors usage of supplies and equipment to eliminate or minimize waste and/or misuse.
  • Maintain visual and verbal contact with the patient during the exam.
What are the typical qualifications for MRI Technologist jobs?
  • Bachelor's Degree in applied sciences, radiologic technology or radiological science, or equivalent experience.
  • Fluency in applicable programming and software.
  • Fluency in HIPAA protocols and regulations.
  • A leader and critical thinker with an eye for continuous improvement.
  • Can lead with a positive attitude.
  • Is a professional at all times.
  • Strict attention to detail.
Education--
Work/Life Balance
3.3 ★
Salary Range--
Career Opportunity
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Avg. Experience0-1 Year

MRI Technologist Salaries

Average Base Pay

$5,500 /month
Same as national average
Not including cash compensation
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Not enough salaries reported to show distribution
$5K
Median: $6K
$6K
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Glassdoor Estimated Salary

MRI Technologist Career Path

Learn how to become a MRI Technologist, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

MRI Technologist

Years of Experience Distribution

0 - 1
57%
2 - 4
20%
5 - 7
0%
8+
23%
Not including years spent in education and/or training

MRI Technologist Insights

Read what MRI Technologist professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
McLaren Health CareMcLaren Health Care
MRI Technologist
7 Dec 2022

“I cannot think of any cons other than Flint's rate of pay is low.”

61st Street Service Corporation61st Street Service Corporation
MRI Technologist
20 Aug 2021

“Grateful that they allowed me to train with little experience and I really liked my fellow co workers.”

Northwestern MedicineNorthwestern Medicine
MRI Technologist
8 Mar 2021

“Best place to work and continue learning.”

TAC Healthcare GroupTAC Healthcare Group
Senior MRI Radiographer
24 Apr 2023

“Pay scale is not great”

RadNetRadNet
MRI Technologist
6 May 2023

“Pay rate is not the best”

Tidelands HealthTidelands Health
MRI Technologist
13 Jan 2022

“Nice people to work with”

OhioHealthOhioHealth
MRI Technologist
20 Sept 2022

“Good people to work with”

Duly Health and CareDuly Health and Care
MRI Technologist
24 Mar 2022

“Great people to work with”

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MRI Technologist Interviews

Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of a MRI Technologist

The most similar professions to MRI Technologist are:
  • CT Technologist
  • Radiation Therapist
  • Radiologic Technologist
  • Sonographer

Related Careers

CT Technologist
Radiation Therapist
$4,400
No skills overlap
Radiologic Technologist
$3,400
Sonographer
No skills overlap

MRI Technologist jobs