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MRI Technician |
Career OverviewMRI technicians, sometimes referred to as MRI technologists, are radiographers who operate machines that use strong magnets and radio waves to create images of hard and soft tissues in the body.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, is a particularly strong type of x-ray. MRI technicians prepare patients for these examinations by explaining the procedure, removing articles such as jewelry, and positioning patients for the exam. There is a need to position lead shields so that parts of the body are protected from the radiation (those parts which are not to be reviewed).
The technician positions the MRI equipment at the correct angle and height over the appropriate area of the patient’s body. They then use the instruments to measure the thickness of the area that is to be tested. They adjust the controls on the machine and thus produce MRI radiographs of the appropriate density, detail, and contrasts.
The film taken from the scan is developed by the technician and passed on to the relevant physician, who uses it to make a diagnosis of the patient’s condition.
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Career RequirementsMRI Technicians must complete standard training or radiologists and then undertake an additional year of training to become MRI specialists.
Hospitals, colleges, universities, vocational colleges, and technical colleges offer training for MRI specialists. Training programs in radiography range in length from one to four years, although those who wish to specialize in MRI training are advised to undertake four year programs to earn bachelor’s degrees in the field.
One-year certificate programs are available for MRI technicians and are generally preferred by employers.
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Job OutlookThrough 2014, job growth for MRI technicians is expected to be faster than the average rate. Job opportunities are expected to be favorable as the growing elderly population has significantly increased the demand and need for imaging procedures such as MRI.
For MRI technicians and CT technicians the job outlook is particularly good as they are also qualified to perform x-ray exams and other standard imaging tests. As employers look to control or cut costs, there will be a definite preference for multi-skilled medical personnel.
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Career TrackMRI technicians have a relatively advanced position as they have training as general radiographers in addition to their specialist training in MRI scanning. That said, with experience and demonstration of managerial ability, MRI technicians may advance to supervisory positions in larger hospital departments or clinics that hire a growing number of radiographers.
More than half of MRI technicians in the US work in hospitals, while the rest work in the offices of physicians, medical and diagnostic laboratories, and outpatient care centers. Most work forty-hour weeks but some commitment to weekends and evenings may be required, particularly in hospital settings.
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CompensationStandard compensation for MRI technicians ranges between $30,000 and $55,000 per year depending upon experience and the precise nature of the job. Additional benefits may include paid vacations, medical and dental insurance, and disability insurance.
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