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What is a Biomedical Technician?

Biomedical Engineering is the application of engineering techniques and thinking to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of human disease.

In practice in the health system this can involve working in specialist departments in close cooperation with other health professionals or working in the Department of Biomedical Engineering with other Biomedical Engineers and Technicians.

Roles of a Biomedical Technician

• Calibrating and commissioning of all types of medical equipment and systems including; Patient Monitors, Defibrillators, ECG machines, X-ray units, CTs, and MRIs
• Providing repairs to complex medical electronic and electromechanical equipment
• Testing devices to ensure safety of patients and staff
• Building novel devices for improved patient care

Career Opportunities

Initially you will be employed in a position where you will be given time and resources to undertake extensive on the job training or further study. Progression to a Senior Technical Officer position, where responsibility for organising the work of other is required, may occur following attainment of a high level of competence and several years of experience with a wide variety of equipment. Some technicians eventually complete university training in order to progress to Biomedical Engineer positions.

Qualifications Required

To obtain an initial position in the field, a trade qualification in Electronics is required. This is then followed by further training at Associate Diploma level and further specialist training provided by equipment manufacturers. Technicians are encouraged to join the College of Biomedical Engineers at Associate Level.

Supervision Required

Extensive supervision and training is provided in the initial years to ensure that you have the required skills and knowledge. As these skills and knowledge are developed independence in the completion of set tasks is expected. As experience is gained, you will also participate in supervising others in the field.

What sort of person should I be?

• A logical thinker
• Interested in the application of electronics
• Enjoy working with computers and sophisticated pieces of equipment
• Good at problem solving
• Good attention to detail

Personal skills required of a Biomedical Technician

• Able to interact well with others
• Able to work independently
• Able to apply themselves to routine and ad-hoc work
• Ability to work under pressure

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