MRI Technician

Cian

Last updated at December 20, 2021

A Diagnostic MRI Technician works in a hospital and uses radiologic machinery that uses magnets and radio waves, not x-rays or nuclear radiation, to make images. These images are then used to help diagnose patient illness and injury.

These technologies have a range of applications all over the body. It is the job of the Diagnostic MRI technician to properly position the patient to capture all the necessary images for evaluation and treatment and to monitor the patients during testing.

What Does an MRI Technician Do?

MRI Technicians work with magnetic resonance imaging machines to capture accurate 3-D images of the human body for diagnostic or research purposes. Their jobs are usually in hospitals or diagnostic imaging centers; wherever there is an MRI machine.

Not only do MRI Techs operate the machine itself, but they also have to understand highly sophisticated software options and coding systems as well as work with the patients.

Sometimes, the job may require inserting an IV and contrast dye and monitor a patient for allergic reactions. In those cases, the technician has the patient’s life in his or her hands. Truly, MRI technicians are some of the most important people in the health field.

How Do You Become an MRI Technician?

To become an MRI Technician, all you need is an associate’s degree in radiology or in MRI specifically. Students in an MRI program will have to participate in a clinical experience, where they will get supervised hands-on training with the machines and software.

To be certified as an MRI technician, you have to pass an exam given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technicians. Most states require registration or certification to practice.

MRI Technician Schools

• MRI Tech Schools in California
• MRI Technician Schools in New York
• MRI Technician Schools in Pennsylvania

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What’s an MRI Vs. X-Ray?

MRI scans vary from X-Ray scans significantly. Not only do they vary in the technology used, but also in their availability and usefulness. Learn the difference in MRI vs xray.

Job Outlook

The salary is good; upwards of $50,000 annually (or over $20.00 an hour) and job demand is increasing. There is a fair amount of job security in this field, as well. This field is a good one to get into right now. It varies a little bit by state; some states may have a slightly higher starting salary, depending on the cost of living. Technicians with more than one specialty have a higher chance of promotion to supervisory positions.

Cian