Interested in a career in medical imaging? Certification and knowledge of radiologic and MRI technology can open doors to many rewarding opportunities, flexible career options, and a growing field that needs your expertise.

Plus, salaries in medical imaging are among the highest available to associate degree holders. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median average salary for these professions in 2024 was around $80k annually, or about $40/hour. However, current job postings offer from $31 to $65/hour, or salaries between $45k and $140k, depending on any additional training, advanced certifications, and focused clinical experience that technologists have.

Below, we’ll unpack a list of professions that are most similar to radiologic and MRI technologists, highlighting related responsibilities, work environments, and earning potential.

What are radiologic and MRI technologists, and why are they similar?

Radiologic technologists are primarily responsible for setting up and operating specialized imaging equipment, including X-ray technology, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners, and computed tomography (CT) machines. Radiologic technologists use these to create images of patients’ bodies (or areas of concern), which are then used to diagnose and treat conditions.

MRI technologists are a type of radiologic technologist who specialize in magnetic resonance imaging, producing highly detailed images of organs, tissues, and internal structures. Both careers require strong technical skills, attention to patient safety, and the ability to help patients feel comfortable during imaging procedures.

As you explore your career options, it’s important to note that many radiologic and imaging professions share these same core competencies: operating complex medical equipment, working directly with patients, and producing critical diagnostic information that supports healthcare decision-making. They are all important, respected, and valued in today’s healthcare industry, so you can’t go wrong with any career choice you make.

Where radiologic and MRI technologists work

A major advantage of the medical imaging career path is its flexibility. These professionals are needed all over the medical field, including:

• Hospitals and emergency departments
• Mobile imaging services
• Outpatient clinics and imaging centers
• Physician practices and specialty clinics
• Travel healthcare contracts

In terms of working arrangements, you’ll also be spoiled for choice. One of the advantages of radiologic and MRI technologists? These and similar careers offer a variety of employment options over the course of a long career.

How radiologic and MRI technologists work

On top of the flexibility in where you can work, there’s also scheduling flexibility on the table. Common work arrangements include:

• Full-time employment
• Part-time schedules
• PRN (as-needed) positions
• Day, evening, overnight, or weekend shifts
• Hourly or salaried compensation models

Hospital-based professionals may work rotating shifts to ensure around-the-clock patient coverage, while outpatient imaging centers often maintain more traditional daytime hours.

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Radiologic and MRI technologists: Similar professions and job titles

Enough with the bird’s eye view. Let’s unpack some specifics. The following statistics and information come primarily from the BLS’s list of occupations related to radiologic and MRI technology, unless otherwise noted.

1. Diagnostic medical sonographers

2024 Median Pay: $89,340

Diagnostic medical sonographers use ultrasound equipment to create images of organs, tissues, and blood vessels. Like radiologic technologists, they work directly with patients and physicians to help diagnose and monitor medical conditions.

2. Radiation therapist

2024 Median Pay: $101,990

Radiation therapists administer targeted radiation treatments to patients with cancer and other diseases. While they work closely with imaging technology, their primary focus is treatment rather than diagnosis.

3. Ultrasound technician (i.e., Sonographer)

Sonographers, also known as ultrasound technicians, use ultrasound technology to capture images of organs, blood flow, and pregnancies. Rather than using radiation, they utilize high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images that assist physicians with diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment planning.

Learn more about becoming an ultrasound technician or explore the differences between radiography and sonography.

4. Veterinary technician

2024 Median Pay: $45,980

Veterinary technicians assist veterinarians with examinations, procedures, laboratory testing, and diagnostic imaging for animals. In many veterinary settings, these professionals help perform and process X-rays as part of patient care.

5. Cardio technologist

2024 Median Pay: $67,260

Cardiovascular technologists operate specialized equipment used to evaluate heart and blood vessel function. Their work may include conducting diagnostic tests such as echocardiograms, stress tests, and vascular imaging procedures.

6. Nuclear medicine technologist

2024 Median Pay: $97,020

Nuclear medicine technologists prepare and administer radioactive drugs that allow physicians to evaluate organ function and diagnose disease. They use advanced imaging equipment to capture highly detailed functional images of the body.

7. X-ray technician

X-ray technicians are among the most important and common professionals you’ll encounter in medical imaging. Using X-ray machines, these technicians take diagnostic images of bones, organs, and tissues to help physicians identify injuries, abnormalities, and medical conditions. X-ray techs work directly with patients, too, positioning them for accurate image capture while also ensuring their safety.

8. CT technician

CT stands for computed tomography, a specialized imaging procedure that produces detailed cross-sectional images of the body. CT technologists position patients, operate CT scanners, and provide physicians with images used to detect injuries, tumors, internal diseases, blood clots, and other medical conditions.

9. Medical dosimetrist

2024 Median Pay: $138,110

Medical dosimetrists work as part of radiation oncology teams, developing precise radiation treatment plans for cancer patients. Unlike most careers on this list, this profession typically requires a bachelor’s degree and specialized advanced training.

10. Mammographer

Mammographers are radiologic technologists who specialize in breast imaging. Using mammography equipment, they perform specialized X-rays that help physicians detect breast cancer and other abnormalities, while also supporting patients through what can be an uncomfortable or stressful procedure.

Explore an associate degree in Radiography

No matter which nook or cranny of medical imaging catches your eye, from radiologic and MRI technologists to similar professions, a Radiography degree can be a valuable first step on your journey.

Learn to handle advanced technology alongside successful communication and patient interaction, to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare field. For those who enjoy science, problem-solving, and making an impact in their community, radiography offers new challenges and long-term career potential.

Learn more about the Radiography program at Goodwin University to see if medical imaging is a good career choice for you.