What Does a Biomedical Equipment Technician Do?

Important Facts About Biomedical Equipment Technicians

Degree Requirements

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, www.bls.gov), educational requirements for specific jobs vary, but most employers require an associate's degree in biomedical technology or engineering fields. Bachelor's degrees in those fields are often needed for career advancement. However, occasionally biomedical equipment technicians are hired without a degree, and can learn the skills needed entirely through on-the-job training usually lasting one year.

Levels of Responsibility

A biomedical equipment technician receiving on-the-job training works on equipment that is less electronically sophisticated, such as hospital beds or electric wheelchairs. A person holding an associate's or bachelor's degree in medical technology or engineering, and certification, works on more complicated equipment such as defibrillators and CAT scanners. Biomedical equipment technicians need continuing education due to new technologies and equipment entering the medical scene.

Job Outlook and Salary Information

The BLS reports that the employment of medical equipment repairers is expected to increase 17% between 2021 and 2031. This increase is predicted because of increased demand for medical services and the complexity of the equipment used in clinics and hospitals. The BLS also reported that these professionals made a median annual income of $49,910 in 2021.