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How much does an MRI tech make in California? Here’s a look at the average salary for MRI techs in California, as well as the job outlook for this career in the state.
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Job Description
MRI techs in California make an average salary of $85,890 per year. MRI techs use magnetic resonance imaging machines to take pictures of patients’ internal tissues and organs. They also help patients onto and off of the MRI table, answer questions, and provide support during the procedure. MRI techs in California typically need at least an associate’s degree in radiologic technology or a related field. Some MRI techs may also be certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.
Duties of an MRI Tech
An MRI technologist, also called an MRI tech, is a medical professional who uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners to take pictures of patients’ internal body structures. MRI technologists typically work in hospitals or diagnostic imaging centers. Some may also work in mobile MRI units that travel to different locations.
MRI technologists are responsible for preparing patients for their procedures, ensuring that they are properly positioned on the MRI scanning table, and monitoring them during the scan. They must also operate the MR scanner controls and maintain the equipment. In addition, MRI technologists may sometimes be responsible for administering contrast agents that help produce clearer images.
Education and Training
MRI techs in California make a mean annual wage of $102,160, which is much higher than the national average of $73,410. To become an MRI tech, you will need to complete an accredited radiology program and obtain a state license. The training process usually takes about two years to complete. Once you have completed your education and training, you will be able to find a job in a hospital or medical facility.
Prerequisites
In order to become an MRI technician in the state of California, you must first complete an accredited MRI program. Once you have completed the accredited MRI program, you will then need to pass the national certification exam in order to become licensed in California.
Certification
In order to work as an MRI tech in California, you will need to obtain certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). The ARRT offers two types of certification: registry eligibility and certification by credential. Certification by credential is earned by passing an exam, whereas registry eligibility is granted to those who have completed an ARRT-approved educational program. Once you have met one of these requirements, you will then need to complete a clinical practicum in order to earn your actual certification.
Salary and Job Outlook
An MRI technologist in California can expect to earn an annual salary of $84,280, which is higher than the national average of $73,410, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The job outlook for MRI techs in California is good, with a projected employment growth of 11.4% from 2019 to 2029.
Salary
The median annual salary for MRI techs in California is $103,610, which is significantly higher than the national median salary of $73,090. The top 10 percent of earners in this profession make annual salaries of $138,430 or more, while the bottom 10 percent earn annual salaries of $70,560 or less.
Job Outlook
In the United States, MRI techs earn a median salary of $72,330 per year, or $34.79 per hour. The top 10 percent of earners make more than $97,490 per year, while the bottom 10 percent earn less than $52,850.MRI techs in California earn a median salary of $84,420 per year, or $40.60 per hour. The top 10 percent of earners make more than $118,290 per year, while the bottom 10 percent earn less than $56,770.
The job outlook for MRI techs is positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in this occupation will grow by 14 percent from 2016 to 2026 – much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is being driven by an aging population and an increasing need for diagnostic imaging to detect and treat conditions and diseases at an early stage.
