How To Become a Medical Equipment Repairer

What degree do you need

One of the most common questions that we always get is what major or degree do I need to become Medical Equipment Repairers or what courses do I need to take.

We also asked Medical Equipment Repairers what did they major in college or university and here are the top 5 most popular majors that came up.

Education requirements for medical equipment repairers vary, depending on a worker’s experience and area of specialization. However, the most common education is an associate’s degree in biomedical equipment technology or engineering. Those who repair less-complicated equipment, such as hospital beds and electric wheelchairs, may learn entirely through on-the-job training, sometimes lasting up to 1 year. Others, particularly those who work on more sophisticated equipment, such as CAT scanners and defibrillators, may need a bachelor’s degree.

How hard is it

You may need some previous work-related skill, knowledge or experience to be a Medical Equipment Repairer. For example, an electrician must complete three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

Careers in this difficulty category will usually need 1 or 2 years of on-the-job training and informal training with experienced workers. These careers usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Similar careers include hydroelectric production managers, travel agents, electricians, court reporters, and medical assistants.

License and certifications

Although not mandatory, certification can demonstrate competence and professionalism, making candidates more attractive to employers. It can also increase a repairer’s opportunities for advancement. Most employers, particularly in hospitals, often pay for their in-house Medical Equipment Repairers to become certified. Some associations offer certifications for medical equipment repairers. For example, the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) offers certification in three specialty areas—Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician (CBET), Certified Radiology Equipment Specialists (CRES), and Certified Laboratory Equipment Specialist (CLEB).

Skills required

We asked other Medical Equipment Repairers if they could only have 5 skills, what would they be. Here is what they said.

Knowledge required

Just like any other job, you will need certain know-hows to excel at your job. Medical Equipment Repairers are generally very knowledgeable in these 5 key areas.

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