BIOMEDICAL EQUIPMENT TECHNICIAN

Job Description

Biomedical equipment technicians work with highly trained doctors and engineers. They test, install, operate, repair, and maintain equipment such as x-ray machines, incubators, electronic thermometers, dental equipment, and cardiac pressure monitors and sterilizers. The biomedical equipment technician instructs other healthcare personnel on the use and care of the equipment. Work involves using hand tools such as soldering irons and delicate measuring devices as well as keeping records of repairs, calibrations, and tests.
There are actually four levels of biomedical equipment technicians. A BMET I works at the entry level, under close supervision, performing preventative maintenance, repair and safety testing; a BMET II has several years of education/experience and works independently in repair and maintenance; a BMET III has significant education/experience, and can perform highly skilled work; a BMET Supervisor is the highest level and has a significant amount of preparation and supervises others. The lines between each of the four levels is general and defined by the place of employment.

Activities may include:

consult on most appropriate equipment for job at hand
inventory supplies and instruments
assure working condition of various equipment
supervise installations and/or repairs
instruct on the correct usage of equipment
operate equipment as needed

Training and Requirements

Training is one to four years in length after high school. Biomedical equipment technician training requires a two year associate's degree. In Washington State, biomedical equipment technology is offered at North Seattle Community College and Biomedical Equipment Technician training is offered at Spokane Community College. With further education, technicians can hold research and training jobs.

Necessary Skills:

mechanical aptitude and eye/hand coordination
critical listening and problem solving skills, especially in relating information on equipment functioning
interest in learning to work on new/updated equipment
accuracy and attention to detail
ability to see slight differences in objects, shapes or pictures
good interpersonal skills
ability to move from place to place easily

Licensing/Certification

Certification in this field is voluntary, but it does enhance earning potential. Certification as a CBET (Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician) is granted by the International Certification Commission for Clinical Engineers and Biomedical Technicians after passing a national exam.

For additional information about biomedical equipment technicians, contact the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation, 3330 Washington Blvd., Suite 400, Arlington, Virginia, 22201.

Helpful High School Courses

Include English, math, algebra, trigonometry, general science, physics, electronics, mechanics, and computer science.

Western Washington Area Health Education Center
2033 Sixth Avenue, Suite 310
Seattle, WA 98121
(206) 441-7137
Email: wwahec@qwest.net