What is a Medical Equipment Repairer?
A Medical Equipment Repairer is a skilled technician who installs, maintains, and repairs various medical devices used in healthcare settings. These professionals, also known as biomedical equipment technicians (BMETs), work on everything from simple hospital beds to complex imaging equipment like X-ray and MRI machines. Their work is critical to ensuring that medical devices are safe, accurate, and functional, directly impacting patient care.
Typical Education
Most employers prefer candidates who have completed an associate's degree in biomedical equipment technology or engineering. However, a high school diploma with on-the-job training or a certificate from a vocational school may be sufficient for some entry-level positions.
Salary Range in the United States
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for Medical Equipment Repairers was $59,060 in May 2023. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $44,000, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $65,500.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program.
A day in the life of a mechanic often involves diagnosing and repairing various vehicles and equipment.
How to Become A Medical Equipment Repairer
To become a Medical Equipment Repairer, you generally need to follow these steps:
- Earn a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Complete a postsecondary education program, such as an associate's degree in biomedical equipment technology. This will provide you with the foundational knowledge in electronics, anatomy, and physiology.
- Gain hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions.
- Consider certification from organizations like the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) to improve job prospects and demonstrate expertise.
- Stay current with new technologies and regulations through continuing education.
Essential Skills
- Mechanical aptitude: The ability to understand and work with complex machinery.
- Problem-solving: Excellent analytical and diagnostic skills to troubleshoot issues.
- Technical knowledge: A strong understanding of electronics, software, and mechanical systems.
- Attention to detail: Precision is crucial for ensuring the safety and accuracy of medical devices.
- Communication: The ability to clearly explain technical issues to medical staff and other team members.
Key Responsibilities
- Diagnose and repair malfunctioning medical equipment.
- Perform routine maintenance and safety checks on devices.
- Install and calibrate new medical equipment.
- Maintain detailed records of all maintenance and repair activities.
- Provide technical support and training to healthcare staff on the proper use of equipment.
Common Interview Questions
- "Can you describe a time you successfully troubleshot a complex equipment failure?"
- What they're looking for: The interviewer wants to see your problem-solving process. A good answer will detail how you identified the issue, the steps you took to fix it, and the positive outcome of your actions.
- "How do you stay current with new medical technologies and regulations?"
- What they're looking for: This question assesses your commitment to continuous learning in a rapidly evolving field. They want to hear about specific examples like attending workshops, reading industry publications, or earning new certifications.
- "Describe a time you had to work under pressure to repair a critical piece of equipment." (Behavioral Question)
- What they're looking for: The interviewer is looking for evidence of your ability to perform effectively in high-stress situations. A strong response will use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to demonstrate your composure, efficiency, and focus on the patient's needs.
- "What is your experience with quality control and safety protocols?"
- What they're looking for: This question gauges your understanding of the strict regulations governing medical devices. A good answer will show your familiarity with industry standards and your commitment to patient and staff safety.
- "How do you handle a situation where a piece of equipment is beyond repair?"
- What they're looking for: This assesses your professionalism and communication skills. They want to know if you can deliver bad news tactfully, provide clear recommendations, and manage expectations with healthcare staff.
Questions?
Have questions about this career? Post in our Career Community! Or, explore our Healthcare Career Community for more insights!