Radiologic and MRI Technologists

Radiologic technologists, also known as radiographers, perform x rays and other diagnostic imaging examinations on patients. MRI technologists operate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners to create diagnostic images.

Duties

Radiologic and MRI technologists typically do the following:

• Adjust and maintain imaging equipment
• Follow precise orders from physicians on what areas of the body to image
• Prepare patients for procedures, including taking a medical history and shielding exposed areas that do not need to be imaged
• Position the patient and the equipment in order to get the correct image
• Operate the computerized equipment to take the images
• Work with physicians to evaluate the images and to determine whether additional images need to be taken
• Keep detailed patient records

Radiologic technologists are trained in the use of different types of medical diagnostic equipment. They may choose to specialize, such as in x-ray, mammography, or computed tomography (CT) imaging. Some radiologic technologists provide a mixture for the patient to drink that allows soft tissue to be viewed on the images that the radiologist reviews.

MRI technologists specialize in magnetic resonance imaging scanners. They inject patients with contrast media, such as a dye, so that the images will show up on the scanner. The scanners use magnetic fields in combination with the contrast agent to produce images that a physician can use to diagnose medical problems.

For information about healthcare workers who specialize in other diagnostic equipment, see the profiles for nuclear medicine technologists, diagnostic medical sonographers, and cardiovascular technologists and technicians.

Magnetic resonance imaging technologists held about 44,100 jobs in 2024. The largest employers of magnetic resonance imaging technologists were as follows:

Radiologic technologists and technicians held about 228,000 jobs in 2024. The largest employers of radiologic technologists and technicians were as follows:

Radiologic and MRI technologists are often on their feet for long periods and may need to lift or turn patients, such as to help those who are injured.

Injuries and Illnesses

Like other healthcare workers, radiologic and MRI technologists may be exposed to infectious diseases. In addition, because radiologic technologists work with imaging equipment that uses radiation, they must wear badges that measure radiation levels in the radiation area. Detailed records are kept on their cumulative lifetime dose. Although radiation hazards exist in this occupation, they are minimized by the use of protective lead aprons, gloves, and other shielding devices and by the badges that monitor exposure to radiation.

Work Schedules

Most radiologic and MRI technologists work full time. Because imaging is sometimes needed in emergency situations, some technologists work evenings, weekends, or overnight.

Radiologic technologists and MRI technologists typically need an associate’s degree. MRI technologists also typically need several years of related work experience. Most states require radiologic technologists to be licensed or certified, but few states require licensure for MRI technologists. Regardless of state requirements, employers typically require or prefer to hire technologists who are certified.

The median annual wage for magnetic resonance imaging technologists was $88,180 in May 2024.

The median annual wage for radiologic technologists and technicians was $77,660 in May 2024.

Overall employment of radiologic and MRI technologists is projected to grow 5 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations.

About 15,400 openings for radiologic and MRI technologists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.