Job Descriptions
Although job titles vary widely in the industry, the following job titles and descriptions are representative of those used in the industry. For complete job descriptions, click here.
BMET I — An entry-level or junior biomedical equipment technician (BMET). Works under close supervision. Performs skilled work on preventive maintenance, repair, safety testing, and recording functional test data. Not certified. Usually has less than four years of experience.
BMET II — A BMET who usually has a two-year degree or higher. Has good knowledge of schematics and works independently on repairs, safety testing, and preventive maintenance (PM). Maintains records, writes reports, and coordinates outside repairs. Average experience is eight years.
BMET III — A highly experienced or specialized BMET usually having an AS (two-year) degree or higher. Has substantial experience and may be certified (CBET). Does highly skilled work of considerable difficulty. Has comprehensive knowledge of practices, procedures, and types of equipment. Average experience is 12 years.
Equipment Specialist — A highly specialized BMET having special training or equivalent experience in lab equipment (LES) or radiology equipment (RES). Usually has an AS (two-year) degree or higher. Performs highly skilled work of considerable difficulty and may hold certification as CLES or CRES.
BMET Supervisor — A BMET who supervises others. Has a significant amount of training, education, or equivalent experience. Most have a BS (four-year) degree or higher. Schedules and assigns work to subordinates, but also continues to do highly skilled repairs. Has comprehensive knowledge of practices, procedures, and types of equipment. Average experience is 13 years.
Clinical Engineer — A graduate engineer holding a BS, MS, or PhD. Performs engineering-level work of considerable difficulty. Has the ability to modify devices and do analysis of devices and systems.
Clinical Engineering Supervisor — A clinical engineer who supervises BMET/peer/subordinate clinical engineers; may also supervise equipment specialists. Usually degreed engineer at BA, MS, or PhD level. Average experience is 21 years.
Director/Department Manager — Most are educated or experienced as clinical engineers or BMETs, but others may be trained in administration or business or have extensive healthcare supervisory experience. Most have a significant amount of technical or management experience, and have the skills to select high-tech equipment, and acquire, maintain, and repair equipment. Supervises BMETS, clinical engineers, and support personnel. May also be the chief technology officer or vice president for healthcare technology.
IT Technologist/Technician — An IT technologist/ technician manages projects in the areas of system administration, software development, and network security, and provides direct technical support in at least one of these areas.
Source: Biomedical Instrumentation & Technology, January/February 2008