Biomedical Engineering Career Outlook
Introduction
Biomedical engineering is a rapidly growing field that combines engineering principles with medical knowledge to design and develop new medical devices, treatments, and technologies. As the population ages and the demand for healthcare increases, the need for biomedical engineers is expected to grow.
Job Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the employment of biomedical engineers will grow by 5% from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to be driven by the increasing demand for new medical devices and technologies, as well as the aging population.
The BLS also projects that the median annual salary for biomedical engineers will be $97,410 in May 2020. The lowest 10% of earners made less than $56,310, and the highest 10% earned more than $163,400.
Education and Training
To become a biomedical engineer, you will need a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering or a related field. Some employers may also require a master’s degree or doctorate.
Biomedical engineering programs typically include coursework in engineering, biology, chemistry, and physics. You will also learn about medical devices, healthcare systems, and the regulatory environment.
Skills
In addition to technical skills, biomedical engineers need strong communication and teamwork skills. They must also be able to work independently and under pressure.
Some of the most important skills for biomedical engineers include:
- Engineering principles
- Biology and chemistry
- Medical device design
- Healthcare systems
- Regulatory environment
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Problem-solving
Career Paths
Biomedical engineers can work in a variety of settings, including:
- Medical device companies
- HospitalsResearch institutions
- Government agencies
- Nonprofit organizations
Common job titles for biomedical engineers include:
- Biomedical design engineer
- Medical device engineer
- Clinical engineer
- Biomaterials engineer
- Regulatory affairs engineer
Conclusion
Biomedical engineering is a rewarding career that offers the opportunity to make a difference in the world. With a strong education and training, biomedical engineers can develop new medical devices and technologies that will improve the lives of millions of people.
