Keeping medical equipment accurate
and in good working order….
is essential to conduct medical tests
and operate life support systems…
which makes the work of
medical equipment repairers very important.
Medical equipment repairers, also known as
biomedical equipment technicians,
install and repair equipment used in hospitals
and medical offices…
from patient monitors and defibrillators…
to X-ray machines and electric wheelchairs.
Repairers perform routine maintenance
on sophisticated equipment,
and when a machine malfunctions,
they diagnose the problem…
then adjust components with hand tools
or modify the software
in order to fix the issue.
Some specialize in just a few specific machines
while others work on a variety of equipment.
Repairers must be comfortable
working around patients,
and may be exposed to health risks
in medical facilities.
The work can be time sensitive and stressful,
as well as physically demanding.
Repairs often involve lifting
and carrying heavy objects
or working in tight spaces.
Most repairers work full time,
and may be on-call evenings
and weekends for urgent repairs.
Those who work as contractors
often travel to perform needed repairs.
Most positions require
an associate’s degree
in biomedical equipment technology
or engineering.
For less-complicated equipment
such as hospital beds or wheelchairs,
repairers may learn
entirely through on-the-job training,
while repair work for equipment
such as CAT scanners or defibrillators
may require a bachelor’s degree.