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Highlights

1. Biomedical Equipment Technicians install, maintain, and repair critical medical devices like monitors and ventilators.
2. Mechanical, technical, communication, time management, and technology skills are essential for this role.
3. Start with an associate degree, gain certifications, and explore internships for hands-on training.
4. The average annual salary is $70,185, with regional differences in pay across the U.S.
5. Job opportunities for biomedical technicians are projected to grow 18% by 2033.

If you're interested in healthcare and enjoy working with advanced technology, becoming a biomedical technician could be a great choice. These professionals ensure medical equipment works efficiently, making it a perfect career for those with a mechanical mindset. 

In this article, we’ll explain a biomedical equipment technician salary, outline their key responsibilities, and provide steps to pursue this career.

What Is The Role Of A Biomedical Equipment Technician?

Before knowing the biomedical equipment specialist salary, let’s discuss its role:

Biomedical technicians, also called "biomedical equipment technicians (BMETs)," are responsible for installing and maintaining critical medical devices like patient monitors, ventilators, ultrasound machines, and X-ray equipment. 

They often specialize in specific equipment types depending on their workplace, such as hospitals, clinics, surgery suites, or radiology departments.

Key Duties of a Biomedical Technician:

1. Installing, maintaining, and repairing medical equipment.
2. Cleaning and adjusting medical devices to ensure proper function.
3. Test and calibrate equipment to identify parts needing repair or replacement.
4. Approving new equipment by ensuring it complies with regulations.
5. Demonstrating how to use biomedical equipment and training others.
6. Preparing detailed reports by analyzing data and trends.
7. Maintaining accurate records of all repairs and maintenance.
8. Providing technical guidance on equipment operations.
9. Evaluating service contracts for medical devices.
10. Replacing outdated or faulty medical equipment when needed.
11. Using computers, specialized software, and electronic tools for repairs.
12. Updating knowledge through medical journals, training, and networking.
13. Promoting workplace safety with safety tests, compliance checks, and training.
14. Protecting patient confidentiality by securely handling sensitive information.

How Much Do Biomedical Equipment Technicians Make?

An average biomedical electronics technician salary is around $70,185 per year, which can vary based on experience, education, and location.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for biomedical technicians are projected to grow 18% faster than the average for other careers between 2023 and 2033. This growth is expected to add approximately 7,300 new positions to the workforce.

Biomedical Equipment Technician Salary by State In the US

Here’s a breakdown of average biomedical electronics technician pay in different U.S. states:

1. Los Angeles, CA: $86,740 
2. Aurora, CO: $78,850 
3. Buckeye Lake, OH: $73,947
4. Las Vegas, NV: $68,714 
5. Cincinnati, OH: $61,037 
6. Denver, CO: $60,348 
7. Columbus, OH: $59,880 
8. Macon, MO: $54,260El 
9. Paso, TX: $52,767 

Are you looking for a biomedical equipment technician job or seeking part time employment opportunities in this field? Yulys offers unique job opportunities tailored to your expertise. With our expert employment staffing services, we connect you with top employers looking for skilled professionals like you!

How to Become a Biomedical Technician?

Becoming a biomedical technician takes experience, knowledge, and commitment. The more experience you gain, the better your chances of earning higher pay. Follow these steps to kickstart your career:

1. Earn an Associate Degree

Start with a two-year associate degree in biomedical equipment technology, engineering technology, or a related field. These programs teach you practical skills for installing and maintaining medical equipment. You’ll learn about:

1. Patient safety
2. Electricity and electronics
3. Medical terminology
4. Chemistry

Many programs also cover clinical instrumentation, biomedical electronic systems, and healthcare networks. Internships are highly recommended. They give you hands-on training and may even be required to graduate.

Tip: Choose a program accredited by the American Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). This ensures quality training and better job prospects. While some employers might hire without a degree, having one makes you stand out.

2. Consider Further Education

Want to move into a leadership role? A bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering or a related field can help. This degree dives deeper into biomedical sciences and teaches how to design and build healthcare equipment.

3. Get Certified

Certification shows your expertise and keeps you updated on the latest technology. The Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) offers certifications like:

1. Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician (CBET)
2. Certified Radiology Equipment Specialist (CRES)
3. Certified Laboratory Equipment Specialist (CLEB)

The CBET is the most common starting point. To qualify, you need:

1. An associate degree or military BMET training
2. Two years of work experience
3. A passing score on a 165-question exam covering:
4. Problem-solving in healthcare technology
5. Fundamentals of electronics and anatomy
6. Public safety in healthcare settings
7. Health information technology

4. Look for Job Opportunities

Your internships and training programs often lead to job contacts. Explore opportunities at medical facilities, clinics, or companies that make medical devices and equipment.

5. Join a Professional Association

Consider joining the Medical Equipment and Technology Association (META). Membership can provide valuable networking opportunities and help you find advanced roles in the field.

Skills Needed to Be a Biomedical Equipment Technician

Biomedical technicians need technical expertise and interpersonal skills to excel in their roles. Here are the key skills required:

1. Mechanical and Technical Skills

These are essential for diagnosing and repairing medical equipment. You must understand how machines work and apply technical knowledge to fix issues efficiently.

2. Communication Skills

As a biomedical technician, you'll often train others and work closely with hospital administrators, medical professionals, and patients. Clear communication ensures everyone understands equipment use and maintenance.

3. Time Management Skills

Quickly assessing the safety and functionality of medical equipment is crucial, especially in high-pressure situations. Strong time management skills help you prioritize tasks and meet deadlines

4. Technology Skills

Working with advanced machines and technology is a big part of the job. You’ll need to troubleshoot and repair problems and stay updated on new medical technologies to keep equipment running smoothly.

Summary

Becoming a biomedical equipment technician is a rewarding career with great opportunities for growth and learning. With the demand for skilled technicians rising, this role offers job security and the chance to make a meaningful impact in healthcare. By gaining the right education, certifications, and experience, you can enjoy a competitive biomedical equipment technician salary while working with technology that helps save lives.