How do I Become a Biomedical Electronics Technician?

A biomedical electronics technician is typically employed in the development, installation, and repair of equipment used to provide health care in hospitals and other medical facilities. This equipment can include emergency breathing apparatuses, clinical laboratory equipment, and life support systems. In order to become a biomedical electronics technician, you will most likely need an associate's or bachelor’s degree in medical technology or electronics. In some cases employers may accept some type of equivalent military or technical training in place of a formal college degree. It is sometimes necessary to be certified by the International Certification Commission for Clinical Engineering and Biomedical Technology before you can become a biomedical electronics technician.

Due to the increasingly complex medical equipment being used in the health care industry today, biomedical electronics technicians are usually in high demand. Entry-level biomedical electronics technicians typically begin employment with a two-year associate’s degree in either Biomedical Electronics Technology, or Biomedical Engineering Technology. Practical work experience is often gained through some form of internship while in school. Obtaining professional certification prior to employment, although not required, is generally a good idea. Carrying the title of Certified Biomedical Electronics Technician will often improve employment prospects. Once employed, continuing education courses are usually provided by specific medical equipment manufacturers.

If you become a biomedical electronics technician, a medical equipment manufacturer rather than a traditional health care facility may employ you. You will likely be involved in building, calibrating, and testing highly sophisticated medical equipment. It is possible that your employer may call upon you to perform repair work in hospitals at various hours of the day or night. You should also be aware that you may face an increased risk of coming into contact with lasers, nuclear contaminates and blood borne diseases.

Before you decide to become a biomedical electronics technician, you should take a moment to decide if you have sufficient skills to work in this field. Typically, biomedical technicians need to be well organized, detail-oriented individuals, who like working with their hands. You will generally need to possess very good analytical skills in order to be able to trouble-shoot problems with this type of machinery. In addition to these qualities, a biomedical technician must also have the ability to perform well under pressure. It might be beneficial to spend some time as a volunteer at a health care facility before making the decision to become a biomedical electronics technician.