Biomedical Engineer

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Work Tasks

BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERS combine biology and medicine with engineering to design and develop devices and procedures that solve medical and health-related problems. They may design and develop artificial hips or pacemakers, or they may adapt computers to medical science. They design devices used in medical procedures, such as computers used to analyze blood or laser systems used in corrective eye surgery. They develop artificial organs, imaging systems, such as ultrasound, and devices for automating insulin injections or controlling body functions. Equipment and devices are tested to make sure they are safe to use.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $81,500 average per year ($39.25 per hour)
• A small occupation (15,300 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow rapidly (7.2% per year)

Entry Requirements

A bachelor's degree in engineering from an accredited engineering program is usually required for beginning BIOMEDICAL ENGINEER positions. Graduate training is essential for engineering faculty positions. Many engineers obtain a master's degree to learn new technology, to broaden their education, and to enhance promotion opportunities. Registration may be required for biomedical engineers. Registration requirements include a degree from an accredited institution, 4 years of relevant work experience, and a passing grade on two national examinations.