Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists
Radiologic technologists perform diagnostic imaging examinations on patients. MRI technologists operate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners to create diagnostic images.
Is magnetic resonance imaging technologists a good career?
It scores 27/100 and ranks #165 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Pays well above the U.S. median wage ($95,480 vs $61,390)
- Faster-than-average projected growth (+7.1% through 2034)
Possible tradeoffs
- Often needs prior experience (less than 5 years)
What magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn between $81,040 and $106,340 a year.
Best-paying states
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Strongest employment concentration
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- Typical education
- Associate's degree
- Work experience
- Less than 5 years
- On-the-job training
- None
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow faster than average through 2034.
Education
High school students who are interested in radiologic or MRI technology should take courses that focus on math and science, such as anatomy, biology, chemistry, and physics.
An associate’s degree is the education typically required for radiologic and MRI technologists. There also are postsecondary education programs that lead to graduate certificates or bachelor’s degrees in healthcare and related fields and science technologies. Depending on the field of degree, education programs may include both academic study and clinical work. Coursework includes anatomy, pathology, patient care, radiation physics and protection, and image evaluation.
Some states require candidates for licensure to complete an accredited program.
Licenses, certifications & registrations
Most states require radiologic technologists to be licensed or certified. Few states require licensure for MRI technologists. Requirements vary by state.
To become licensed, technologists usually must graduate from an accredited program and either pass a certification exam from the state or obtain certification from a credentialing organization. Technologists may be certified in multiple specialties. For specific licensure requirements for radiologic technologists and MRI technologists, contact the state’s health board.
Employers typically require or prefer prospective technologists to be certified even if the state does not require it. Employers also may require or prefer that prospective technologists have certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or basic life support (BLS).
Important qualities
Detail oriented. Radiologic and MRI technologists must follow instructions exactly to get the images needed for diagnoses.
Interpersonal skills. Radiologic and MRI technologists work closely with patients who may be stressed or in pain. They must put patients at ease to get usable images.
Math skills. Radiologic and MRI technologists may need to calculate the proper amount of radiation or magnetic resonance emitted in imaging procedures.
Physical stamina. Radiologic and MRI technologists often work on their feet for long periods during their shift and must be able to lift and move patients who need help.
Technical skills. Radiologic and MRI technologists must understand how to operate complex machinery.
Related occupations
How much do magnetic resonance imaging technologists make?
The national median wage is $95,480 a year, with the middle half earning between $81,040 and $106,340 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is magnetic resonance imaging technologists a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 27 of 100 and ranks #165 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change +7.1% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
The typical entry-level education is associate's degree, usually with less than 5 years.
Where do magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn the most?
Among states, District of Columbia pays the highest median ($128,710). Local pay for every state and metro is below.