MRI Technologist

Operates Medical diagnostic equipment which uses ionizing radiation and other types of energy to produce diagnostic images and for treatment purposes. Participates in patient’s care through interdisciplinary, peer and public education, patient counselling, radiation protection, management and related research. Evaluates the technical sufficiency of diagnostic images by regular basic verifications and quality control checks of equipment. Usually requires a 1- to 2-year post-secondary diploma in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) OR an accredited MRI certificate program in addition to an accredited diploma in one of medical radiology, diagnostic medical sonography, nuclear medicine and radiation therapy (inclusive of practicum period required). MRTs as a part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification of Medical radiation technologists require Licensure with a regulatory body in most provinces in Canada, Alberta inclusive. Also, a Membership with a provincial association is required in Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, and Manitoba. A Certification by the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (having passed the entry-to-practice examination), is required in all provinces except Quebec’ and British Columbia.

Average Hourly

$42.20

Range Hourly

$36.78 – $51.42

Average Yearly

$72,279

Range Yearly

$62,923 – $87,969

NOC Code

Medical radiation technologists (3215)

Alias Job Titles

Resonance Imaging Technologist; MRI Technician

Qualifications Required

• 1-to-2- year post-secondary diploma in Magnetic Resonance Imaging.
• An accredited MRI certificate program in addition to a diploma in a related field as listed above.
• Generally, this program is completed after completing a Medical Radiology Technologist/Nuclear Medicine Technologist/Diagnostic Sonography/Radiation Therapy Diploma/Programs

Job Demand

Low
The employment outlook is good to fair in most provinces. More information is available here

Growth opportunity

Not specified, However, to attain the level of a supervisor or instructor, some experience is required.

Training Options (if available)

Several schools offer programs and courses that meet the educational requirements of an MRI technologist. Examples include:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging - NAIT (post-diploma certificate ; online day)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Advanced Certificate, Part-time/Distance & Online Learning – BCIT (part-time online, 4-month practicum required)

MRI and Spectroscopy - Overview: Red River College Program & Course Catalogue Red River College, Manitoba (practicum included, full time)

Certificate Program in MRI - School of Health Sciences - Dalhousie University Halifax (Certificate program, practicum included)

Personal Qualities

Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills, team player, responsible with a high degree of integrity, great customer service skills, sensitive to the needs of clients, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills. Strong communication ability; good organizational and time management skills; ability to work independently; team-oriented; inquisitive; willingness to learn; flexible

Notes/Other Information

Should enjoy-
• Having procedures and standards for their work.
• Compiling data for research and statistics.
• Working with the public Strength required- lift over 20 kg.

Potential employers /Workplaces

Hospitals
Clinic
Cancer treatment centers
Radiological laboratories
Colleges and Universities

Steps towards capacity building to become competitive for this job

Obtaining a Medical Radiology Technology, Nuclear Medicine Technolgy, or similar diploma.
Foreign degrees can be assessed to determine equivalency to a Canadian accredited degree program
Completion of the appropriate course
Practicum or Internship lasting 40 to 45 weeks to gain experience
Registration with a Provision regulatory body