MRI Technologists: Duties, Salary, and How to Become One

Key takeaways

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technologists use scanners to create internal images of the human body to help diagnose critical conditions. 

• According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, an MRI technologist makes a median annual salary of $88,180 [1].

• As an MRI technologist, you’ll prepare patients for MRI scans, work with physicians to identify where to scan patients, operate and maintain imaging equipment, and update patient records.

• You can prepare for a career as an MRI technologist by earning an associate degree and, if required by your state, certification or licensure.

Learn more about MRI technologists, what you'll do in this role, how much you can make, and what you need to do to become one. If you’re ready to build key skills, consider enrolling in the University of Michigan’s Anatomy Specialization. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the major organ systems, their functions, and relationships within the body. Upon completion, in as little as two months, you’ll have developed in-depth knowledge to prepare you for a health care career.

What is an MRI technologist?

An MRI technologist uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology to take pictures inside the human body to help diagnose a range of critical conditions, such as brain tumors and dementia, and inform the development of treatment plans to improve a patient’s health. MRI technologists work in health care facilities, such as hospitals and clinics, where they provide patient care and conduct MRI scans that produce internal imagery of the human body using a combination of radio waves and powerful magnetic fields. 

What does an MRI technologist do?

MRI technologists are critical to diagnosing internal conditions, such as brain tumors, infections, and anomalous brain activity resulting from strokes, Alzheimer’s, and dementia. Some of the most common duties MRI techs perform include:

• Maintaining imaging equipment 

• Preparing patients for MRI scans 

• Working with physicians to identify where you should scan patients

• Operating imaging equipment during scans 

• Maintaining relevant patient records

MRI technologist salary and job outlook 

Their skill set, combined with a growing need for health care professionals, means that MRI technologists are in demand and command a higher-than-average salary. 

What is an MRI technologist’s salary? 

Those entering the MRI technologist field can expect a higher-than-average salary. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), MRI technologists earn a median annual salary of $88,180 [1]. 

Outlook for MRI technologist jobs 

The outlook for MRI technologists is positive, with overall job growth expected to increase by 7 percent between 2024 and 2034 [2]. During this period, the BLS notes that approximately 3,100 new jobs will be created, indicating a healthy need for radiologic and MRI technologists for the foreseeable future [2].

A key driver for this need is an aging US population of baby boomers susceptible to conditions like Alzheimer’s, which require imaging technology to diagnose and monitor. 

How long do MRI technologist programs take?

The process of becoming an MRI tech generally takes three to five years, depending on your previous qualifications. After receiving a minimum of an associate degree, which takes two years on average to complete, you need to complete one to two additional years in a specialized MRI tech certification program.

How to become an MRI technologist 

Typically, MRI technologists have an associate degree in a related field of study, like an Associate of Science in MRI Technology. Depending on the program, some degrees might even lead to a bachelor’s program.

While some recent graduates might be able to get an entry-level MRI technologist position upon graduation, many employers prefer to hire those with previous experience in a related field, such as radiologic technologists. Some states require MRI technologists to be certified or licensed to practice professionally. 

Read more: A Guide to the Bachelor of Health Science Degree

Explore free resources for your career in health care

Subscribe to our Career Chat newsletter on LinkedIn for career tips and industry insights. Then, check out the following resources to learn more about a career in health care:

• Explore emerging trends: AI in Health Care: Uses, Benefits, and Concerns 

• Find your path: Career Test: What Career Is Right for Me Quiz? 

• Watch on YouTube: What Can You Do with a Public Health Degree

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