OPT MRI Technologist Jobs

MRI Technologist jobs on OPT require STEM-designated programs in radiologic technology or a related field, which qualifies you for 24-month STEM OPT extension beyond your initial 12 months. Most hospital and imaging center employers expect ARRT(MR) certification, so timing your credential with your OPT start date matters.

Find OPT MRI Technologist Jobs

Overview

Open Jobs438+
Work Type100% On-site
Top LocationCharlotte, NC
Most JobsAtrium Health

Showing 5 of 438+ MRI Technologist jobs

St. Elizabeth Healthcare
MRI Technologist
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St. Elizabeth Healthcare
New 16h ago
MRI Technologist
St. Elizabeth Healthcare
Williamstown, Kentucky
Nursing
Allied Health
Healthcare Administration
Patient Services & Wellbeing
On-Site
Associate's
5,001-10,000

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Yale New Haven Health
MRI Technologist
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Yale New Haven Health
New 18h ago
MRI Technologist
Yale New Haven Health
Trumbull, Connecticut
Nursing
Allied Health
Healthcare Administration
Radiology / Imaging
Patient Services & Wellbeing
On-Site
Associate's
10,000+

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SUNY Upstate Medical University
MRI Technologist
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SUNY Upstate Medical University
New 18h ago
MRI Technologist
SUNY Upstate Medical University
Syracuse, New York
Allied Health
Healthcare Administration
Radiology / Imaging
$33 - $55/hr
On-Site
Associate's
1,001-5,000

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Baptist Health System KY & IN
MRI Technologist
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Baptist Health System KY & IN
New 21h ago
MRI Technologist
Baptist Health System KY & IN
Lexington, Kentucky
Allied Health
Healthcare Administration
Radiology / Imaging
Patient Services & Wellbeing
On-Site
Associate's
10,000+

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Orlando Health
MRI Technologist
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Orlando Health
New 22h ago
MRI Technologist
Orlando Health
Winter Garden, Florida
Nursing
Healthcare Administration
Clinical Support
Medical Assistant
On-Site
Bachelor's

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Tips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in MRI Technologist

Get ARRT(MR) certified before your OPT starts

Most MRI Technologist positions require ARRT(MR) certification as a hard requirement, not a preference. Sitting for boards before your OPT authorization begins removes a major barrier and puts you on equal footing with domestic candidates from day one.

Target large health systems over small clinics

Large hospital networks like academic medical centers and multi-site health systems have dedicated HR and legal teams experienced with OPT and H-1B visa sponsorship. Smaller outpatient imaging clinics often lack the infrastructure to sponsor work authorization at all.

Confirm your program's STEM designation before applying

STEM OPT extension eligibility depends on your degree program's CIP code, not just the subject matter. Verify with your DSO that your radiologic technology or medical imaging program appears on the official STEM designated degree program list before committing to a timeline.

Disclose OPT status early in the process

Bringing up OPT authorization early, ideally in the cover letter or initial screening, avoids wasted time on both sides. Employers in healthcare hiring for licensed roles are accustomed to work authorization questions and typically appreciate the transparency upfront.

Track state licensure deadlines alongside your OPT end date

Several states require MRI Technologists to hold state licensure in addition to ARRT certification. Processing times for state licenses can run six to ten weeks, so submit your application well before your OPT start date to avoid gaps in employment eligibility.

Ask about H-1B sponsorship before accepting any offer

MRI Technologist roles typically qualify as specialty occupations for H-1B purposes given the degree requirement. Before signing an offer, ask the employer directly whether they have sponsored H-1B visas in the past and whether they intend to for this role.

MRI Technologist OPT: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work as an MRI Technologist on OPT?

Yes, if your degree is in radiologic technology, medical imaging, or a closely related field and your OPT employment is directly related to that field of study. You'll also need to hold active ARRT(MR) certification and any state licensure required where you practice. Your DSO must authorize OPT before you begin work.

Does an MRI Technologist job qualify for STEM OPT extension?

It depends on whether your specific degree program carries a STEM-designated CIP code. Programs in radiologic technology, biomedical engineering, or health informatics can qualify, but not all medical imaging programs are designated. Confirm with your DSO by checking your program's CIP code against the official STEM list before planning your timeline.

How do I find MRI Technologist employers who sponsor OPT and H-1B?

Migrate Mate filters job listings specifically for employers open to sponsoring international students, so you can browse MRI Technologist openings without having to screen each employer manually. Focusing on large academic medical centers and national hospital systems gives you the best odds, as they file H-1B petitions regularly and have established processes for OPT transitions.

Is ARRT certification required to work on OPT as an MRI Technologist?

ARRT(MR) certification is required by the vast majority of employers and by law in many states, regardless of immigration status. OPT does not change that requirement. You must pass the ARRT examination and meet any applicable state licensure requirements before starting work. Some states also require separate MRI-specific licensure beyond ARRT.

What happens to my OPT if my MRI Technologist job ends?

If you lose or leave your job, you enter a 90-day unemployment window on standard OPT, or 150 days across the full STEM OPT extension period. You must report your unemployment to your DSO and begin a job search immediately. Working in a closely related clinical imaging role still counts, but you cannot work outside your authorized field of study.