$37.99 to $52.29 per hour
Other benefits
Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA)
Magnetic resonance imaging technology certificate
Magnetic resonance imaging technologists play an important part in ensuring Albertans receive quality patient care by producing and recording magnetic resonance images (MRIs). They perform a variety of standard and complex functions, including prepping patients for MRIs, explaining MRI procedures to patients, responding to patients’ questions and needs, as well as providing the injection of contrast agents when required. They are responsible for ensuring that the images they produce are high-quality and are in accordance with physician requests.
Because MRIs use a strong magnetic field to produce images of the body, magnetic resonance imaging technologists must review a patient’s medical information to determine if pacemakers or other implanted devices may preclude the patient from having the diagnostic procedure. They are responsible for ensuring the safety of everyone who enters the MRI area.
Magnetic resonance imaging technologists may also provide leadership and work guidance to fellow diagnostic imaging staff, radiography students and other health care professionals during the course of their work.
Magnetic resonance imaging technologists work mostly at hospitals and health centers. Although they often work independently with their patients, magnetic resonance imaging technologists work as part of an interprofessional team that can include other technologists, therapists, physicians and nurses, as well as staff on cancer care and inpatient units.
Magnetic resonance imaging technologists may work full-time or part-time hours or on a call-in (casual) basis. They can apply for positions that are permanent, temporary or casual depending on department and facility needs. Shift schedules may include a combination of day, evening, night, and weekend shifts, as well as on-call duty.
Magnetic resonance imaging technologists often sit or stand for long periods of time, such as when they perform MRIs. They may be required to bend, reach and lift patients and equipment during the course of their work. The work of magnetic resonance imaging technologists can also expose them to strong magnetic fields and biohazardous materials. At times, they may work in challenging or stressful circumstances, such as in an emergency situation.
