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

$2,365/week

The average salary for a Travel MRI Technologist is $2,365 per week. This is 1% higher than the practicing US average of $2,339.

Last updated on May 15, 2024. Based on 5,513 active jobs on Vivian.com in the last 7 days.

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

$2,365/week

1% higher than the practicing US average.

$2,339/week

United States

Where do Travel MRI Technologists get paid the most?
StateAverage Weekly SalaryMax Weekly Salary
Alaska$3,054$3,598
Minnesota$2,798$3,213
New Hampshire$2,796$3,509
Massachusetts$2,677$3,271
Utah$2,673$2,945
Connecticut$2,662$3,170
Nebraska$2,596$3,253
California$2,562$3,344
Washington$2,562$3,988
Maine$2,541$3,881
New York$2,538$3,663
New Jersey$2,537$3,512
Oklahoma$2,526$3,112
Idaho$2,522$2,852
Rhode Island$2,504$2,907
Pennsylvania$2,491$3,182
Hawaii$2,485$3,375
Nevada$2,455$2,640
What cities pay the most for Travel MRI Technologists?
CityAverage Weekly SalaryMax Weekly Salary
Tacoma, Washington$3,642$3,988
Aberdeen, Maryland$3,021$3,565
Hillsboro, Oregon$2,962$3,436
Butler, Pennsylvania$2,962$2,962
Palo Alto, California$2,932$3,203
Rochester, Minnesota$2,925$3,085
Staten Island, New York$2,918$3,663
Lebanon, New Hampshire$2,896$3,509
Salinas, California$2,894$3,050
White Plains, New York$2,873$3,228
What are the highest paying Employers and Agencies for Travel MRI Technologist jobs?
Average Weekly SalaryMax Weekly Salary
FlexStaff$3,663$3,663
ICONMA$3,550$3,550
Aptiva Healthcare$3,400$3,400
HealthTrust Workforce Solution External$3,270$3,881
Firstat Medical Staffing$3,207$3,512
Lifeline Healthcare Professionals$3,122$3,122
Medninjas$3,120$3,120
Pacer Staffing$3,120$3,120
Preferred Healthcare Staffing$3,120$3,129
SojouRN$3,101$3,101

Last updated on May 15, 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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