MRI TECHNICIAN

Cook County•Chicago, IL

7d•$44 - $54•Onsite

About The Position

The MRI Technician works under the direction and supervision of the Technical Supervisor – CT/MRI and performs magnetic resonance procedures on pediatric and adult patients to obtain high-quality images as prescribed by a supervising physician. The technician is responsible for patient comfort and safety, preparing and positioning patients, and monitoring them during examinations. The role requires following infection-control and MRI-safety guidelines, recognizing and documenting adverse reactions to contrast media, and providing imaging services promptly, efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively. The position may require travel to Cook County Health worksites to perform procedures. The scheduled shift is 8:00 AM–4:00 PM. The technician must also accept rotation shifts when necessary, on-call coverage including weekends and holidays, and overtime or flexible hours as requested. Emergency calls may require responding within one hour. The salary range is $44.377–$53.518 per hour, with placement based on experience disclosed and documented at the time of application. This position is covered by the collective bargaining agreement between Cook County and SEIU 73; internal eligible applicants are considered before external applicants.

Requirements

Graduate of an accredited training program in Radiologic Technology or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI); official transcripts must be provided at interview.
Certification/registration with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in MRI or the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist (ARMRIT); certification must be provided at interview.
Active Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification through the American Heart Association; certification must be provided at interview. Employees hired before 5/1/2021 are grandfathered with the previous certification.
Ability to travel to Cook County Health worksites to perform procedures.
Recognize high electromagnetic-field hazards and infectious diseases and follow safety precautions for self, patients, and other personnel.
Skill in operating MR equipment.
Ability to sustain standing, sitting, bending, and moving for long periods.
Ability to lift 25–50 pounds and use proper lifting mechanics.
Willingness and ability to cross-train in CT.
Ability to work in a stressful environment involving equipment limitations and changing patient-care priorities.
Ability to work independently and make appropriate decisions in response to immediate and recognizable changes in patient condition.
Ability to recognize the needs and behavior of patients across age groups, including child growth and development, adolescent behavior, and signs of normal aging.
Willingness to work overtime as requested, flexible hours as requested, and respond to work requests on short notice.
Ability to take emergency calls and respond within one hour.
Demonstrate professional growth through continuing-education seminars and other educational activities.
Meet all required qualifications at the time of application filing.

Nice To Haves

Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) state license.
One year of experience as an MRI Technologist.
ARRT certification in Radiology (ARRT)(R).
Active Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
Prior experience with patients of various age groups.

Responsibilities

Interview patients, obtain MRI histories as necessary, and explain examinations to patients.
Prepare the MRI room and assess and prepare patients for MRI procedures.
Perform MRI procedures according to established clinical protocols and filming techniques, applying anatomical positioning and physiology knowledge to select or modify technical factors for optimal results.
Perform daily quality-control testing on MRI or CT systems.
Position and transfer patients on and off the scanning table using immobilization devices while maintaining patient comfort.
Complete required documentation, including log books, worksheets, and screening forms.
Document allergic reactions according to department and hospital policy.
Maintain cleanliness of work areas, diagnostic equipment, and support equipment.
Provide clinical instruction or orientation to students or technologists in the Center.
Ensure equipment, including the RIS, is operating properly and adequately maintained; report equipment problems to the supervisor immediately.
Assist in coordinating the daily schedule.
Operate MRI, filming, developing, and duplicating equipment, and apply appropriate coils for specific body parts to produce high-quality images.
Work cooperatively with personnel and maintain high ethical standards with coworkers and patients.
Maintain supply inventory and inform the supervisor of needed supplies.
Accept rotation shifts when necessary and on-call coverage assignments, including weekends and holidays.
Address and resolve minor complaints tactfully and refer difficult complaints or sensitive issues to a supervisor or designee.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
Initiate IVs for administration of contrast media for MRI enhancement when permitted by department policy.
Contact the radiologist, nurse, or supervisor for guidance when a patient's condition changes immediately.
Use the RIS/HIS system and enter appropriate and necessary data.
Travel to Cook County Health worksites to perform procedures as required.
Follow hospital and department safety requirements, including PPE, hand hygiene, and applicable engineering and work-practice controls.