Radiologic and MRI technologists are vital members of a healthcare team, tasked with performing radiation therapy treatments and conducting diagnostic imaging exams, such as x-rays. Most radiologic and MRI technologists work closely with radiologists in hospitals, physician’s offices, laboratories and clinics ─ properly positioning patients to obtain a high-quality image.
These healthcare professionals are skilled at radiation protection and safety, patient examination practices and equipment conventions. They have strong technical, interpersonal and communication skills and work well under stress.
Work Environment and Job Duties for Radiologic and MRI Technologists
Most radiologic and MRI technologists work in hospitals, physician’s offices, laboratories and clinics. Many practice general radiography, but some opt to specialize in an imagining technique such as computed tomography, nuclear medicine, bone densitometry, sonography, magnetic resonance imaging, interventional radiography or quality management.
Most radiologic and MRI technologists are employed full-time and some are required to work evenings, weekends, holidays and on-call, as imaging is often needed in emergency situations.
Specific job responsibilities can vary, but some of the general duties include:
- Maintaining detailed patient records.
- Properly operating and maintaining equipment.
- Interviewing patients to prepare them for procedures.
- Correctly positioning patients to capture the correct image.
- Safeguarding patients to by covering exposed areas that do not require imagining.
- Working closely with physicians to review images and establish whether additional images need to be captured.
Radiologic and MRI Technologist Employment and Pay Outlook
The number of jobs for both radiologic technologists and MRI technologists is expected to experience significant growth through 2022. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts the number of radiologic technologists will grow 21% and the amount of MRI technologists will increase by 24%, adding approximately 90,100 new jobs. The BLS cites the aging population, with an increase in medical conditions requiring imaging to diagnose to promote the job growth. Additionally, federal health legislation will add to the number of patients with access to healthcare.
The median annual pay for radiologic and MRI technologists was $54,620, as of May 2012, according to the BLS.
How Do I Become a Radiologic or MRI Technologist?
Registered radiologic technologists are required to complete a minimum of two years of formal training in a hospital-based program or an associate’s or bachelor’s degree program ─ the majority of professionals in this field have an associate’s degree. College-level courses often include image evaluation, radiation physics and protection, image evaluation and anatomy.
Radiologic and MRI technologists must pass a national certification exam and earn continuing education credits to uphold their certification. Radiography programs are accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), which is required for licensure in some states.
The above average job outlook of 21% for radiologic technologists and 24% for MRI technologists ─ compared with 11% for all occupations ─ provides a strong sense of job security. Radiologic and MRI technologists also enjoy a competitive average annual salary of $54,620 ─ compared with $34,750 all occupations. These professionals are able to enjoy being part of a healthcare team and making a difference in patient’s lives.
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