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Magnetic Resonance Technologist: Occupations in Alberta - alis
Do you have a passion for helping people who are sick or injured? Do you enjoy one-on-one contact with people? Are you patient, compassionate, and interested in health care? Then a career as a magnetic resonance technologist may resonate for you.
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Occupations in Alberta
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NAIT - MRI Program

Magnetic Resonance Technologist

Magnetic resonance technologists operate medical diagnostic equipment. This equipment uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce images of the body.

Contents Expand All
Also Known As

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologist, MRI Technologist

NOC Codes

In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used.

Here is how this occupation has been classified over time.

2006 NOC

  • 3215: Medical Radiation Technologists

2006 NOC-S

  • D215: Medical Radiation Technologists

2011 NOC

  • 3215: Medical radiation technologists

2016 NOC

  • 3215: Medical radiation technologists

2021 NOC

  • 32121: Medical radiation technologists

2023 OaSIS

  • 32121.04: Magnetic Resonance Technologist
Duties
Updated Mar 31, 2024

Magnetic resonance technologists use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners to help:

  • Study all areas of the body
  • Study the vascular system (arteries, veins, and capillaries)
  • Find and study anomalies such as tumours

In general, magnetic resonance technologists:

  • Explain procedures to patients and their families, and answer questions
  • Provide emotional support
  • Take and review medical histories and screen patients to make sure the procedure is safe for them
  • Prepare patients for the procedure
  • Monitor the patient and equipment and provide patient care during the procedure
  • Operate MRI equipment to produce high-quality diagnostic images and data
  • Inject contrast media and other pharmaceuticals when needed
  • Troubleshoot technical problems
  • Collaborate and share findings with other health-care providers
  • Train student technologists
  • Help educate other health-care providers about the MRI environment
  • Follow strict safety procedures and rules as well as infection control measures to ensure the safety of patients, staff, and visitors
  • Keep accurate records and compile research data

Magnetic resonance technologists work closely with other health-care providers and administrative personnel.

Working Conditions
Updated Mar 31, 2024
  • Strength Required Lift over 20 kg

Magnetic resonance technologists work in hospitals and clinics. They work in a fast-paced environment and spend a lot of time on their feet. They may have to help lift or transfer patients to imaging equipment. Caring for patients in various states of health can be emotionally, mentally, and physically challenging.

Working hours vary. They may include extended shifts at all times of the day, or night shifts. In hospital settings, technologists are sometimes on call.

Interests & Abilities

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2006 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Medical Radiation Technologists

2006 NOC: 3215

Interest Codes

Interest Codes for This NOC Group
OBJECTIVE

Interest combinations are unique to each of the occupations in this National Occupational Classification (NOC) group. Please consult the 2003 NOC Career Handbook for further information.

METHODICAL

Interest combinations are unique to each of the occupations in this National Occupational Classification (NOC) group. Please consult the 2003 NOC Career Handbook for further information.

INNOVATIVE

Interest combinations are unique to each of the occupations in this National Occupational Classification (NOC) group. Please consult the 2003 NOC Career Handbook for further information.

Your Interest Codes

To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Reading Interest Codes
A Quick Guide

The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. 

It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective, and Social.

Each set of 3 interest codes for this NOC group is listed in order of importance.

A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.

A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.

Learn About Interests

Traits & Skills
Updated Mar 31, 2024

Magnetic resonance technologists need:

  • To be responsible
  • To have integrity, such as to maintain patient confidentiality
  • Patience and adaptability
  • Sensitivity and empathy
  • The ability to put people at ease
  • The ability to work in a small team environment
  • To be accurate and detail-oriented
  • Organizational skills
  • Critical-thinking and problem-solving skills
  • Communication skills (both speaking and listening)
  • The ability to handle stressful situations

They should enjoy:

  • Continual learning in science and technology
  • Using technical equipment to perform precision tasks
  • Working closely with patients and support persons
  • Having procedures and standards for their work
  • Compiling data for research and statistics

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Top 10 Skills Employers Are Looking For

Medical radiation technologists

2016 NOC: 3215

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 25 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Mar 24, 2022 and Nov 15, 2024.

Review these skills to learn:

  • Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
  • What training you may need to get these skills
  • What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.
Health benefits: Health care plan
Health benefits: Dental plan
Attention to detail
Tasks: Operate X-ray, radiographic and fluoroscopic equipment, computerized tomography (CT) scanners, mammography units and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners
Tasks: Provide appropriate care and monitoring of the patient during the examination
Tasks: Record and process patient data
Team player
Tasks: Explain procedures and side effects of radiation
Tasks: Record and process results of procedures
Tasks: Apply radiation protection measures
Health benefits: Health care plan 20
Health benefits: Dental plan 19
Attention to detail 18
Tasks: Operate X-ray, radiographic and fluoroscopic equipment, computerized tomography (CT) scanners, mammography units and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners 17
Tasks: Provide appropriate care and monitoring of the patient during the examination 14
Tasks: Record and process patient data 13
Construction Specialization: Team player 13
Tasks: Explain procedures and side effects of radiation 12
Tasks: Record and process results of procedures 12
Tasks: Apply radiation protection measures 12
Educational Requirements
Updated Mar 31, 2024
  • Minimum Education 2 years post-secondary

Magnetic resonance technologists need a diploma in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). It must be recognized by the Alberta College of Medical Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technologists (ACMDTT). For a current list of approved programs, visit the ACMDTT website.

Magnetic resonance technologists also require national certification from the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT).

Another way to become an MRI Technologist is to complete both an accredited MRI certificate program (MRI 2nd Discipline) and an accredited diploma program in one of:

  • Medical radiology
  • Diagnostic medical sonography (ultrasound)
  • Nuclear medicine
  • Radiation therapy
  • Combined laboratory and X-ray technology (CLXT)

Magnetic resonance technologists must also complete 24 hours of continuing medical education (CME) per year.

Required Education

The following schools offer programs and courses that meet this occupation’s educational requirements. Other eligible programs and courses may be available.

British Columbia Institute of Technology
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology
Related Education

The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.

British Columbia Institute of Technology

To expand or narrow your program options, visit Post-Secondary Programs and start your search with:

Completing a program does not guarantee entrance into an occupation. Before enrolling in an education program, prospective students should look into various sources for education options and employment possibilities. For example, contact associations and employers in this field.

Certification Requirements
Updated Mar 31, 2024
  • Certification Provincially Regulated

Certain professional titles or duties within this occupation are protected by provincial legislation. Requirements vary if you use these titles or perform these duties.

The related legislation is shown below. If there are multiple related legislations, select a certification heading to learn about each one.

Medical Radiation Technologist

Medical radiation technologists may apply ionizing radiation, non-ionizing radiation, and other forms of energy to produce diagnostic images. They then evaluate the technical sufficiency of the images. They may also use those forms of energy for treatment purposes. They assess the medical condition and needs of patients before, during, and after procedures.

Legislation

Under Alberta’s Health Professions Act [pdf] ], Health Professions Restricted Activity Regulation [pdf], and Medical Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technologists Profession Regulation [pdf], registration with the Alberta College of Medical Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technologists (ACMDTT) is mandatory. Only registered members may provide restricted activities specified in the Regulations. This includes those who:

  • Meet identified competency requirements and provide professional services directly to the public
  • Teach the practice of the profession to members or students of the profession
  • Supervise registered members who provide services to the public

Only those members can use the protected titles and initials of the specialties included in the medical radiation technologist (MRT) register:

  • Radiological technologist or MRT (R)
  • Nuclear medicine technologist or MRT (NM)
  • Radiation therapist or MRT (T)
  • Magnetic resonance technologist or MRT (MR)

For information on what you need and other details, visit the certification profile Medical Radiation Technologist.

Employment & Advancement
Updated Mar 31, 2024

Magnetic resonance technologists work in large urban hospitals and clinics. Without further education, prospects for advancement are limited.

Industry Concentration

This section shows the industries where the majority of people in this occupation work. The data is based on the 2016 Census.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Medical radiation technologists
2016 NOC: 3215

95.5% of people in this occupational group work in:

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

Look for Work

Think Industries and Sectors When Planning Your Career

Jobs and occupations are changing every day. It can be hard to know what the future of work looks like—but not impossible. Look at industries and sectors for possible inspiration, insights, and opportunities.
3-Year Job Market Forecast

This section shows the short-term demand forecasted for this occupation in Alberta over a 3-year period. It also shows the number of people employed in the occupation.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Medical radiation technologists
2021 NOC: 32121
High
Demand
4,600
Employed

Source: 2023-2025 Alberta Short-Term Employment Forecast

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

To see data for all occupations, visit Occupations in Demand.

5-Year Job Market Forecast

This section shows the employment outlook for this occupation in Alberta over a 5-year period.

Employment outlook is influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

  • Time of year (for seasonal jobs)
  • Location in Alberta
  • Employment turnover (when people leave existing positions)
  • Occupational growth (when new positions are created)
  • Size of the occupation
  • Trends and events that affect overall employment, especially in the industry or industries from the previous list
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OCCinfo

Employment Outlook

Employment outlook is influenced by a wide variety of factors. Learn how these factors can affect your career decisions.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Medical radiation technologists
2016 NOC: 3215
1.8%
Annual Growth
(Below Average)
46
New Positions

Source: 2021-2025 Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook

Annual growth is from 2021 to 2025. New positions created each year are in addition to job openings created by employment turnover.

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Related Alberta Job Postings
Wage & Salary
Updated Mar 31, 2024

For information about current collective agreements in the public and not-for-profit sectors, see the Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA) website.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Medical radiation technologists

2016 NOC: 3215
Average Wage
$44.02
Per Hour
Average Salary
$75,822.00
Per Year
Average Hours
33
Per Week
Average Months on Payroll
12
Survey Methodology Survey Analysis

Source
 2021 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey

NOC 3215 Wage Profile

Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.

All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.

To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.

Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.

A: High Reliability
Data Reliability Code Definition

High Reliability, represents a CV of less than or equal to 6.00% and 30 survey observations and/or represents 50% or more of all estimated employment for the occupation.

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
  • Low
  • High
  • Average
  • Median
Starting
Overall
Top

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
Wages* Low (5th percentile) High (95th percentile) Average Median
Starting $33.98 $42.35 $35.91 $33.98
Overall $39.02 $51.61 $44.02 $42.84
Top $44.75 $55.41 $47.54 $47.30

Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

Pay brackets for hourly wages

  • Starting pay: average pay offered for entry-level positions
  • Overall pay: average pay across all employees in this occupation
  • Top pay: average pay offered to top-paid employees

Industry Information

ALL INDUSTRIES
Health Care & Social Assistance
ALL INDUSTRIES $75,822
Health Care & Social Assistance $76,077

Skills Shortage

Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years
62%
62%)
Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties
33%
33%
Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months
23%
23%
Vacancy Rate
3%
Related High School Subjects
  • English Language Arts
  • Health, Recreation and Human Services
    • Health Care Services
    • Human and Social Services
  • Mathematics
  • Science
    • Biology
    • Chemistry
    • Physics
Related Post-Secondary Field of Study
  • Health Care and Medical Sciences
Other Sources of Information
Updated Mar 31, 2024

Alberta College of Medical Diagnostic & Therapeutic Technologists (ACMDTT) website: acmdtt.com

Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) website: www.camrt.ca

Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA) website: hsaa.ca

Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.

Updated Mar 31, 2024. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.

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