MRI Technologist Job Description, Skills, and Salary
Get to know about the duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and skills requirements of an MRI technologist. Feel free to use our MRI technologist job description template to produce your own. We also provide you with information about the salary you can earn as an MRI technologist.
Who is an MRI Technologist?
A professional who specializes in operating MRI equipment that generates computer-generated diagnostic images is called an MRI technologist. An MRI technologist manages MRI machines. They are responsible for assisting radiologists with patient MRI scans as well as maintaining the MRI equipment.
An MRI machine, a medical device that uses radio waves, magnets, and computers to display two- and three-dimensional images, of the internal organs and bones, is a good example. Depending on the number of images that an MRI technologist has to take, MRI exams can take between 15 and 90 minutes. MRI equipment is a tube or large magnet that requires patients to remain still during the examination.
MRI technologists are employed in many healthcare settings, including physician’s offices and labs. Most technologists work in hospitals. Although an MRI technologist is usually full-time, they might work overtime and be available for any emergency.
MRI Technologist Job Description
Below are the MRI technologist job description examples you can use to develop your resume or write an MRI technologist job description for your employee. Employers can also use it to sieve out job seekers when choosing candidates for interviews.
- Explaining the MRI process and ensuring patients adhere to safety standards.
- Removing and replacing IVs and catheters in preparation for MRI.
- Positioning the MRI equipment to capture the best images.
- Monitoring patients while scanning and maintaining patients’ records.
- Monitoring the operation of MRI equipment.
- Recognizing abnormalities and irregularities in images.
- Using imaging equipment and any other equipment on different areas of the body to provide high-quality images and information that can be used for diagnosis.
- Addressing any patient concerns and explaining the MRI process to them in a way that is both informative and reassuring.
- Using tact, courtesy, and poise to keep patients calm and ensure that they receive the best possible care
- Communicating with radiologists and other healthcare professionals is essential to ensure that the message gets across.
- Avoiding downtime or delays in patient satisfaction
- Troubleshooting peripheral pieces of equipment
- Prescreening aseptic injections for patients with contra-indications.
- Assisting new technologists in their training with regular supervision, direction, and work samples from an experienced member of the team.
- Verifying operation of MRI equipment.
- Reporting any problems or need for maintenance.
- Using MRI equipment to take diagnostic images of the designated areas of the patient’s body.
- Explaining the procedure to patients, while taking into consideration their emotional and physical needs.
- Assisting patients with their medical needs and providing patient care.
- Screening patients for anruysim clip, cardiac pacemaker, eye surgery, stapedectomy, and cardiac pacemaker before they are examined.
- Supervising and directing staff members in their job duties.
- Examining the physician’s chart and reviewing patient history to determine if the patient is suitable for MRI.
- Performing emergency or overtime duties during times of crisis.
- Perform administrative and clerical tasks when essential.
- Following established policies and procedures to complete assigned tasks.
- Locating and accessing images, reports, and analyzing the filing processes.
- Ensuring that MRI rooms are safe, clean, and well-organized.
- Preparing MRI room with all necessary equipment and supplies for examination.
- Participating in the quality assurance and improvement programs of the department.
- Injecting a special dye to the patient so that the images appear on the scanner
- Maintaining your imaging equipment
- Taking patient’s medical history and keeping records current
- Answering questions and explaining the procedure to patients
- Preparing and positioning patients to undergo scans
Qualifications
To work as an MRI technologist, you will need at least an associate’s degree, certification, and licensure depending on where you live.
Education
An associate degree, certificate, or diploma in MRI technology must be earned from a community college. These courses are two-year-long and include both classroom instruction and practical training. The topics of study include anatomy, pathology, patient care and safety, ethics, and MRI equipment. Students will be able to observe real MRIs and patient care in a healthcare setting during this period.
To be licensed in certain states, MRI technicians must have completed an MRI program that has been accredited by either the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARMT) or the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT).
Technicians can earn a certificate first in radiology and then one in MRI to be qualified without obtaining an MRI-specific associate’s degree.
While not necessary, many MRI technicians obtain a bachelor’s in advanced radiological sciences to enhance their skills and knowledge. These professionals can also be prepared to move up in the ranks, such as chief radiologic technologist, MRI specialist, or manager of radiologic departments.
Training
Most of the training for MRI technologists is received through their associate degree programs. On-the-job training might be available to help them learn about the equipment and procedures of a clinic.
MRI technologists must keep abreast of the most recent developments in the medical field. To ensure that they are up-to-date on MRI technology, they could attend seminars or study medical journals to provide the best possible care to patients.
Certification
Employers prefer to hire MRI technicians who have been certified by one of these two organizations.
- American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
The ARRT offers certifications for 13 fields, including Magnetic Resonance Imaging. For certification, MRI technicians need to have taken an ARRT-approved educational course and read the ethics policies of the organization. They must pass an exam, renew their credential every two years, and they need to be certified.
- American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists
Candidates who have met the education and experience requirements of the ARMRIT and have passed the computerized exam are eligible for MRI Technologist certification. This certification must be renewed every three years by MRI technicians.
Certain states require MRI technicians to be licensed before they can legally practice. To be eligible for licensure, MRI technicians need to have either an ARRT certification (or pass the state’s certification examination).
Essential Skills
- Communication skills
MRI technologists have interpersonal skills that allow them to empathize and help patients feel comfortable during the MRI process. It is possible to communicate with patients in a medical setting and show compassion. This skill is important because MRI technologists might speak with patients frequently.
- Computer skills
MRI technologists use computers for processing and reviewing images from MRI scans. To produce diagnostic images, they also make use of specific computer settings. It is important to have basic computer skills and know which programs are available for diagnosing imagery.
- Attention to detail
An MRI technologist’s job includes interpreting images and setting up an MRI scan. An MRI technologist is trained to place a patient in the MRI equipment. They also know what process to use to obtain the right diagnostic scans according to a radiologist’s request. These procedures can be performed well if you pay attention to details.
Technical skills
MRI technicians must be able to operate complex machines. They must be able to understand the machine and the computer equipment that renders images.
How to Become an MRI Technologist
- Select an MRI Tech School
Before you can apply to an MRI technologist training program, you must decide where you will complete your training. It can be difficult because there are so many MRI programs in the United States.
Many students enjoy the possibility of living in or near their hometown. Many students want to start afresh in a new place. It’s worth visiting the campus of the school to make sure it’s a good fit for you as you will be spending time there.
Once you have a clear idea of where you want to study, it is time to start preparing your application.
Make an appointment with a member of the admissions team to discuss your goals and assist you in determining how to reach them. To see how your academic and educational history fits into the course you are applying for, it is a good idea to review them. This is also the ideal time to discuss specific enrollment procedures and any financial aid options.
- Check out the Financial Aid available for your MRI Tech Training
Many MRI training schools offer financing options to pay tuition fees. Financial aid programs are often available to MRI students.
FAFSA applications are highly recommended. This is an online application that you can use to apply for federal student financial aid. You must submit your FAFSA application within four days of applying to an MRI program.
It is much easier than you think to apply for federal student aid. It takes only about an hour to complete the application and it takes 3 to 14 days for you to receive your results!
- Complete Your MRI Tech Application
Students will typically need to apply in person for a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) program. They will be required to bring all necessary documents and interview the program director. To meet minimum entry requirements, they often need to pass the Wonderlic SLE or another similar entrance exam.
Ask your school representative if they offer rolling admissions. This allows prospective students to apply for MRI technician programs anytime they want, as admission officers review applications as they come in. Rolling admission gives you more time to decide on the specialty and allows you to properly complete the application forms.
- Take the Entrance Exam to Your MRI Tech Program
The Wonderlic SLE is not something to be afraid of. It is required by most educational, nursing, or police training programs before applicants are allowed to be admitted.
The Wonderlic exam is widely considered to be the best way to assess a student’s academic potential. The exam measures a candidate’s mental ability and competencies. The exam evaluates the student’s ability and willingness to learn new skills.
Schools for MRI technologists can assess potential students to determine if they are a good match for the program. This helps reduce frivolous student loans.
- Meet the requirements for the MRI Tech Program
When a school reviews applications for diagnostic MRI technologist positions, there are often several factors. These factors include your GPA, education level, healthcare experience, points-of-reference, entrance exam scores, performance in interviews, and the most recent degree.
Strong applicants must have completed college courses in the health sciences. Schools recommend that applicants have an associate degree to be considered for MRI Technologist programs. This is because of the high competition.
- Wait for the decision
The most nerve-wracking part of the application process is waiting for a decision from a school. There is a silver lining to this story: Most MRI tech schools tend not to speed-track their decisions. You should be notified if your application has been accepted within two weeks.
- Complete your MRI Tech Course Enrollment
Prospective MRI technologists will often need to make an appointment to complete their registration. This could include signing an enrollment agreement and any other documents required to complete the registration process.
- Participate in the Orientation of Your MRI Tech Program
Students in MRI Tech programs must attend an orientation before or on their first day of classes. Although it is mandatory, orientations are a great way to learn about your school’s policies and procedures.
- Get your MRI Technologist training completed
You will learn to use advanced technology and tools during any MRI program. You will receive classroom instruction as well as a clinical internship. You will also learn a lot about patient and technological care, evaluating MRI images, anatomy cross-sectional, and other topics.
It is advisable to keep up-to-date on all technological developments in MRI while you are studying. This is a fascinating, ever-changing field. Continual learning will allow you to stay current and help you climb the career ladder.
- Completion of your MRI Tech Clinical Internship
After completing the lab instruction hours and class, MRI students must complete a 600-hour clinical internship. The students are placed with an experienced mentor in allied health who will assist them with real-world tasks in a professional environment. Usually, the school will have a dedicated MRI tech clinical affiliation where the students will complete the internship.
- Get Your MRI Tech Certification
The American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists should approve MRI technician certificate programs. After students have completed their training they can take the ARMRIT national certification exam to MRI.
An associate degree MRI graduate can apply for primary pathway certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.
- Search for entry-level MRI tech jobs
Prospective MRI technologists may apply for employment after completing their training and a clinical internship. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there will be 16,800 new MRI technologists jobs by 2029.
Where to work
MRI technicians can work in hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, universities, private practice, and other healthcare facilities. If they work in emergency rooms, most MRI technicians work full-time.
MRI Technologist Salary Scale
Based on their experience and where they work, MRI technicians can make hourly or annual wages.
The average salary of an MRI technologist in the U.S. is 36.81 an hour
Some salaries are between $19.40 and $61.90 an hour.
