FAQ
Biomedical Equipment Technician FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a biomedical equipment technician.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a biomedical equipment technician: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about biomedical equipment technicians
Do BMETs need certification?
Not always, but the CBET is valued after experience.
Do BMETs work with patients?
They work in clinical areas but don’t provide patient care.
Is the military a good path?
Yes. Many BMETs train in military biomedical programs.
How much does a biomedical equipment technician make?
The median annual wage for biomedical equipment technicians was $61,660 ($29.64 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $38,490 and the highest 10% earned more than $98,280.
How long does it take to become a biomedical equipment technician?
Most people need about 2 years of training. Most BMETs have an associate degree in biomedical equipment technology, electronics or a related field. Military biomedical training is a common path. Bachelor’s degrees support clinical engineering roles.
Do you need a degree to be a biomedical equipment technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is biomedical equipment technician a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +12.6% from 2025–35 (much faster than average), with about 8,200 openings each year. Upsides include technology work that supports patient care; a common challenge is that on-call responsibilities.
What skills does a biomedical equipment technician need?
Key technical skills include electronics troubleshooting, medical device maintenance, electrical safety testing, and calibration. Employers also value problem solving, communication with clinicians, and calm under pressure.
What certifications are available for biomedical equipment technicians?
Common credentials include Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician (CBET), Certified Radiology Equipment Specialist (CRES), Certified Laboratory Equipment Specialist (CLES), and CompTIA A+ or Network+. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Biomedical Equipment Technician fit quiz, compare with Electronics Technician, or explore Biomedical Equipment Technician training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 49-9062 (Medical equipment repairers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Medical equipment repairers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.