Western Washington Area Health Education Center
2033 Sixth Avenue, Ste. 310
Seattle, WA 98121
Ph: 206.441.7137
Fax: 206.441.7158
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WWAHEC
2033 Sixth Avenue, Ste. 310
Seattle, WA 98121
Ph: 206.441.7137
Fax: 206.441.7158
Health
Professionals/
Student Placement
Health Career
Information
Health Career Ambassadors
Health Career
Job Descriptions
HOPE
Preceptor & Site Resources
Scholarship Info
Distance Learning
Volunteer/Retired
Providers Program
K-12 Learning Resources
aka Science
Allied Health
Health Career
Information
HOPE
Health Career Ambassadors
Health Career
Job Descriptions
Scholarship Info
Distance Learning
Statewide Office
of Rural Health
Community Health
Assessment, Planning
& Development
Primary Care
Provider Recruitment
Shop
Health Career Information
Biomedical Engineer
Job description
A biomedical engineer is an allied health professional who applies general engineering principles and methods to biomedical research and healthcare. Aspects of engineering, physics, and technology are combined to understand and solve problems in life science research, medical diagnosis, medical therapy, and prevention of human disease.
Activities may include
●
study engineering aspects of bio-behavioral systems of humans using a knowledge of human anatomy and physiology
●
plan and conduct research concerning behavioral, biological, psychological, or other life systems
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develop math models/computer simulations of human bio-behavioral systems in order to obtain data for measuring or controlling life processes
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design/develop instruments and devices such as artificial organs, limbs, pacemakers, or ultrasound imaging equipment to assist healthcare personnel in observing, diagnosing, repairing, or treating physical ailments or deformities
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evaluate effectiveness of drugs and other medications
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develop new applications for energy sources such as using nuclear power for biomedical implants
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teach, write, consult or manage and maybe work as sales or field engineers and install, adjust, maintain, or repair equipment for biomedical equipment manufacturers
Specialties
Biomedical engineering is a very diverse health field and involves career specializations in the following areas: healthcare delivery, hospital safety, rehabilitation, public health, data processing and systems analysis, biomechanics, artificial organs and assist devices, chemical and nuclear energy sources, and performance evaluation of drugs, surgery, and instrumentation.
Salaries and benefits*
Entry level salaries for a biomedical engineer with a bachelor of science degree range from $29,000 to $34,000; those with a master's degree earn an average of $35,000 to $41,000 annually, and those with a PhD start between $42,000 to $57,000 per year. Full benefits are usually included at most places of employment.
Training and requirements
In Washington State, programs require a graduate degree, such as a master's or a doctor's. To enter the program a bachelor's of science degree, with a heavy science component, is required. Training is offered at Washington State University, and at the University of Washington with a combination of the School of Engineering and School of Medicine. A bachelors in bioengineering is offered at Walla Walla College.
Necessary skills
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aptitude for math and science
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logical and analytical thinking as well as creativity and inventiveness
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concern for and commitment to healthcare
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ability to make good decisions
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patience and perseverance
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desire to work with all types of people and as a team member
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good listening skills and ability to communicate clearly
Licensure/Certification
Licensing as a professional biomedical engineer is encouraged and in some employment situations is mandated by law. Certification is available through the International Certification Commission for Clinical Engineering and Biomedical Technology.
Helpful high school courses
Include math through calculus, chemistry, biology, physics, mechanical drawing, computer science, electricity and electronics, and English/literature/composition.
Colleges/Vocational Schools in Washington State
●
University of Washington
Department of Bioengineering
Harris Hydraulics Lab, #309
Box 357962
Seattle, WA 98195-7962
(206) 685-2000
●
Washington State University
Bioengineering Program
Dana Hall, Room 143
P.O. Box 642714
Pullman, WA 99164-2714
Phone: 509-335-7993
Outlook*
The job outlook for biomedical engineers in Washington State is excellent and is growing in demand! The present demand for qualified biomedical engineers far exceeds the supply, and a huge shortfall of biomedical engineers is expected by the year 2000.
* Note: General career descriptions are updated as necessary, however salary expectations and projected outlooks have not been updated since 2000. Go to Workforce Explorer Washington and search your career for the most up-to-date salary and job growth expectations. Washington Healthcare Careers and Workforce College are also good resources for job information.
For additional information, contact your school's career counselor or
WWAHEC
2033 Sixth Avenue, Ste. 310
Seattle, WA 98121
Ph: 206.441.7137
Fax: 206.441.7158
Page updated 9/15/04