Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists

What the job really is

Operate Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners. Monitor patient safety and comfort, and view images of area being scanned to ensure quality of pictures. May administer gadolinium contrast dosage intravenously. May interview patient, explain MRI procedures, and position patient on examining table. May enter into the computer data such as patient history, anatomical area to be scanned, orientation specified, and position of entry.

At a glance

• Sector: Healthcare Practitioners
• O*NET-SOC code: 29-2035
• O*NET job zone: 3 — medium preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• Review physicians' orders to confirm prescribed exams.
• Conduct screening interviews of patients to identify contraindications, such as ferrous objects, pregnancy, prosthetic heart valves, cardiac pacemakers, or tattoos.
• Select appropriate imaging techniques or coils to produce required images.
• Operate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners.
• Provide headphones or earplugs to patients to improve comfort and reduce unpleasant noise.
• Position patients on cradle, attaching immobilization devices, if needed, to ensure appropriate placement for imaging.
• Take brief medical histories from patients.
• Inspect images for quality, using magnetic resonance scanner equipment and laser camera.
• Intravenously inject contrast dyes, such as gadolinium contrast, in accordance with scope of practice.
• Test magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) equipment to ensure proper functioning and performance in accordance with specifications.
• Create backup copies of images by transferring images from disk to storage media or workstation.
• Instruct medical staff or students in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedures or equipment operation.

Tools and technology

MEDITECH software, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Word, eClinicalWorks EHR software, Appointment scheduling software, Capnographs, Carbon dioxide monitors, Clinical imaging workstations, Crash carts, Dosimetry badges, Electronic medical record EMR software

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Radiologic Technologists and Technicians
• Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians
• Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
• Nuclear Medicine Technologists
• Neurodiagnostic Technologists
• Radiation Therapists
• Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists
• Ophthalmic Medical Technologists

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 3 (medium preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

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Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.