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Biomedical Engineer - Career Profile |
Career OverviewBiomedical engineers are able to use mathematical principles in combination with medical knowledge to help to design more effective ways to complete research as well as process and develop new and existing materials that are made from living tissue. They can also work with hospitals in designing new technology to help with patient care and treatment.
A biochemical engineer often is called in to help with problem solving if there are complications or unexpected results with a research project or the use of a production line or piece of equipment.
Often the biomedical engineer uses computer programs or works with others to develop complex programs to understand and model research principles and show results. They may also be required to create new equipment to help with a treatment or to enhance and existing treatment for a patient or research project.
The biomedical engineer must have an excellent ability to problem solve, communicate with others as well as work under stress and in a team environment.
Biomedical engineers have been involved in creating various items we now take for granted such as hearing aides, blood chemistry sensors, equipment used in surgeries for patient monitoring, sports medicine and even some of the very specialized equipment used in microbiology and genetics. Most electronic or automated lab and hospital equipment has been developed and designed by biomedical engineers.
Biomedical engineers usually work in hospitals, universities, private research facilities or long term care centers with research grants. While the work is very challenging it is also rewarding as the biomedical engineer often gets to work directly with the hospital staff to assist the patient.
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Career RequirementsA biomedical engineer usually begins their career as an Engineer with a 4-year engineering program with a focus on biomedical engineering, chemical or electrical. They then enter the life sciences field and complete training and education in biotechnology, chemistry, or medical research.
Most biomedical engineers have either Masters or Doctorate level education with significant laboratory experience earned throughout their educational years.
Once training is complete may biomedical engineer become accredited through the American Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). Some agencies will also require that the biomedical engineer be registered as a Professional Engineer prior to consideration for a position.
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Job OutlookWith an increase in the number and types of treatments now used in hospitals and care facilities the demand for more automated and specific types of equipment and monitoring systems continues to increase.
The population is aging, so the number of patients in these facilities is also increasing, leading to a greater demand for biomedical engineers to develop products and equipment needed.
The United States Department of Labor indicates that both engineering and biotechnology careers will continue to increase until at least the year 2014.
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Career TrackThere are many different opportunities for biomedical engineers both in hospitals and research facilities in both supervisory and management positions. For those experienced biomedical engineers there are also opportunities to teach within research facilities or through universities and colleges.
Biomedical engineers are routinely employed on a full time basis by most hospitals and research schools. There are also opportunities to work on a contract basis or even act as a consultant to smaller hospitals that cannot afford to hire a full time biomedical engineer.
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CompensationBiomedical engineers with minimum training and experience can anticipate earnings of between $43,000 and $50,000 per year, depending on the specialization that they have and their certifications.
More advanced level and ABET certified P. Engs that are also biomedical engineers will often earn closer to $80,000 with up to $100,000 for those in high level supervisory or management positions.
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