Travel MRI Technologist Salary Guide

MRI technologists are allied health professionals who operate magnetic resonance imaging equipment. This type of imaging uses strong magnets and a radio frequency current to take three-dimensional images of the human body. Before imaging, the MRI technologist must ask questions about the patient's medical history and then position the patient in the MRI scanner. When necessary, the technologist injects contrast media into an intravenous line to enhance the appearance of specific structures. After performing the scan, an MRI technologist reviews the images to confirm they meet the ordering physician's requirements.

How do you become an MRI technologist?

To become an MRI technologist, you must obtain an associate degree in radiologic technology or MRI technology. This 2-year degree includes coursework in anatomy and physiology, radiation physics, patient care and other relevant topics. Accredited programs also include clinical experience requirements to ensure you know how to operate MRI equipment safely. According to the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, as of April 3, 2023, six states require MRI technologists to be licensed, which include:

  • New Hampshire

  • New Mexico

  • North Dakota

  • Oregon

  • Tennessee

  • West Virginia

If you intend to start as a radiologic technologist and become an MRI technologist later, you may need to obtain a license before you start working, as 42 states require a license to work as a radiologic technologist. Check with your state licensing body to learn exactly what you need to work as an MRI or radiologic technologist in your area.

Average Travel MRI Technologist Salary

$2,524/week

The average salary for a Travel MRI Technologist is $2,524 per week. This is 5% higher than the practicing US average of $2,400.

Last updated on October 7, 2024. Based on 7,067 active jobs on Vivian.com in the last 7 days.

Salaries for Travel MRI Technologist compared to Allied Health Professional National Averages

$2,524/week

5% higher than the practicing US average.

$2,400/week

United States

Where do Travel MRI Technologists get paid the most?
StateAverage Weekly SalaryMax Weekly Salary
Rhode Island$3,124$3,500
North Dakota$2,920$3,452
New Hampshire$2,884$3,472
Connecticut$2,871$3,602
South Dakota$2,859$3,529
California$2,848$4,457
Nebraska$2,826$3,400
Vermont$2,787$3,285
Massachusetts$2,779$3,427
Wisconsin$2,772$3,520
Minnesota$2,735$3,362
Maryland$2,731$3,583
Washington$2,731$3,950
Hawaii$2,725$3,200
Kentucky$2,676$3,610
Illinois$2,625$3,898
New York$2,623$3,663
Colorado$2,605$3,462
Kansas$2,599$3,209
What cities pay the most for Travel MRI Technologists?
CityAverage Weekly SalaryMax Weekly Salary
San Francisco, California$4,130$4,457
San Jose, California$3,584$3,584
Bellevue, Washington$3,518$3,821
Wayne, New Jersey$3,334$3,334
Brockton, Massachusetts$3,322$3,322
Durham, North Carolina$3,192$3,649
Warwick, Rhode Island$3,170$3,500
Waukegan, Illinois$3,168$3,168
San Diego, California$3,145$3,431
Springfield, Illinois$3,129$3,360
What are the highest paying Employers and Agencies for Travel MRI Technologist jobs?
Average Weekly SalaryMax Weekly Salary
GQR Healthcare-Allied$3,864$3,864
FlexStaff$3,663$3,663
Ghost RX Inc$3,582$3,582
Tekaccel, Inc.$3,320$3,320
Skyline Med Staff Allied$3,320$3,320
Meda Health$3,300$3,300
InfiCare Health$3,280$3,280
Catapult Healthcare$3,200$3,200
Consolidated Medical Travel$3,182$3,182
Converdia Health Staffing$3,165$3,165

Last updated on October 7, 2024. Information based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

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Travel MRI Technologist Career Guide

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How can you increase your pay as a travel MRI technologist?

Travel MRI technologists earn approximately 17.8% more than staff MRI techs, allowing you to make more without investing in additional education or certifications.

How much does an travel MRI technologist make?

According to Vivian's data, travel MRI technologists averaged $2,497 for the week ending in April 8, 2023, which works out to $32,461 for a 13-week contract or $64,922 for a 26-week contract.

Do travel MRI technologists earn more than staff MRI technologists?

Travel MRI technologists generally make more than staff MRI technologists. On April 8, 2023, Vivian Health reported that staff jobs paid an average of $52.98 per hour, or $2,120 weekly in a standard 40-hour workweek. In contrast, travel MRI technologists earned an average of $2,497 per week, an increase of nearly $400.

What states employ the most MRI technologists?

BLS data for 2021 shows that the following states employ the most MRI technologists:

  • Florida: 3,270

  • Texas: 2,690

  • Illinois: 2,560

  • California” 2,470

  • New York: 2,230

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