Bioengineering vs Biomedical Engineering
Bioengineering and biomedical engineering are often used interchangeably due to their similarities. However, there are notable differences between these two disciplines. Let’s break them down and take a look at each:What is Biomedical Engineering?
Biomedical engineering is a more specialized subject that utilizes many principal theories to improve human health. It focuses on the production of processes and tools to aid different healthcare conditions. This field can have the most significant impact on a person’s life.What is Bioengineering?
Bioengineering applies engineering practices in general biology, and it’s a fairly broader topic compared to the biomedical field. It covers pharmaceuticals, foodstuffs, agriculture, and natural resources, among numerous other topics. These two programs combine various engineering principles to solve problems that are of biological origin.Types of Biomedical Engineering Jobs
This is one of the hottest fields for students at the moment. It combines technological or mechanical methods with biological principles to create a medical device that will help save people’s lives and prevent illnesses. Think of cardiac pacemakers, X-ray machines, or artificial kidneys, among numerous other medical devices that have helped mankind. If you want to positively affect people’s health and also have strong interests in science and mathematics, then a biomedical engineering degree is the ideal choice for you. And if you’re wondering which types of jobs you can find in biomedical engineering, here are three top-tier and highly demanded occupations you should consider.Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical engineers plan, design, and create equipment, instruments, computer systems, software, and other devices that are used in healthcare. They use knowledge from research and different technical sources and combine medical sciences with engineering principles to develop new procedures and solve clinical problems. Biomedical engineer jobs can be found in universities, hospitals, medical institutions, research facilities, and manufacturing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are currently about 19,800 occupied positions, with projections estimating an increase of 4% within the next eight years. This growth will put about 700 jobs for biomedical engineers on the market by 2028, at a median hourly pay of $31,89.Biomedical Engineer Job Description
These professionals are involved in the design and creation of artificial internal organs, body parts replacements, biomedical equipment, and machines that are used for diagnosing medical conditions and problems. If you’re wondering what else do biomedical engineers do, they also install, maintain, repair, and adjust biomedical equipment. Furthermore, they evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and efficiency of biomedical equipment. And last but not least, they present their findings to other scientists, clinicians, engineers, hospital management, and the public. Below are the minimum requirements on how to become a biomedical engineer successfully.Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in biomedical or a related engineering field
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
- Formidable communication and listening skills
- Outstanding math skills and creativity
- Evaluation, time-management and project-management abilities
Biomedical Engineer Salary
- Lowest Pay: $51K
- Highest Pay: $86K
- Average Base Pay: $65,779
- Average Additional Pay: $1,508
Rehabilitation Engineer
Rehabilitation engineers work with devices that help people with disabilities. Their job is to manage, maintain, and repair electronic or mechanical devices and equipment, like artificial limbs, wheelchairs, robotic aids, and so on. Rehabilitation engineering jobs are often found in private companies or, most commonly, in National Health Services. The BLS projects a steady growth rate in employment, indicating a 7% increase in new rehabilitation engineer jobs by 2028 with a median hourly pay of $41,16.Rehabilitation Engineer Job Description
The main tasks in rehabilitation engineering are to ensure that the equipment is manufactured and fits perfectly within strict specifications. Moreover, engineers need to follow these specifications in order to create viable electrical or mechanical parts. Sometimes they may also modify or repair existing equipment like communication aids or devices such as artificial limbs or wheelchairs. These biomedical engineering jobs are among the most appreciative occupations since they have a direct impact on people’s disabilities.Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field
- Solid concentration levels and IT skills
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Formidable analytical and problem-solving skills
- Logical and methodical approach
Rehabilitation Engineer Salary
- Lowest Pay: $58K
- Highest Pay: $124K
- Average Base Pay: $81,724
- Average Additional Pay: $6,339
Clinical Engineer
Clinical engineers work with scientists and medical professionals in developing new technologies. These innovations play a crucial role in healthcare, as they optimize their delivery. The most common work environments for these clinical engineering jobs are offices and laboratories. They may also spend significant time within refineries or industrial plants where they have the opportunity to monitor operations and solve problems that arise on-site. With the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 6% increase in clinical engineer jobs, there will be plenty of opportunities for college graduates. Namely, an additional 2,100 positions will become available within the next eight years. Add the fact that clinical engineers receive a median hourly pay of $52,30, and it’s no wonder why this occupation is in high demand. Now, let’s take a look at their duties and what you need to know about how to become a clinical engineer.Clinical Engineer Job Description
A biomedical clinical engineer makes use of the acquired knowledge in biological systems to design and develop drug therapies, patient care procedures, artificial tissues, and diagnostic equipment, among others. Clinical engineering also entails a managerial aspect. This means you might be responsible for overseeing technicians and other staff to ensure proper safety guidelines and protocols are administered. Additionally, you may be in charge of overseeing service contracts or managing the medical equipment of the organization.Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in biomedical or a related engineering field
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and team working abilities
- Knowledge or experience with scientific, medical and computer design software
- Creativity, inventiveness and math skills
Clinical Engineer Salary
- Lowest Pay: $52K
- Highest Pay: $104K
- Average Base Pay: $77,278
- Average Additional Pay: $5,368
Types of Bioengineering Jobs
Bioengineering is an incredibly broad field that focuses on applying engineering in agriculture, food, and biological and environmental processes. It involves the use of engineering principles, mathematics, and life sciences to create solutions that would solve problems in healthcare, medicine, biology, and many other fields. Since this field combines biology and engineering, two major disciplines, there is a wide variety of career options available for graduates to choose from. We’re going to delve deeper into some of the most sought-after bioengineering jobs and take a look at what it takes to apply and get employed successfully.Biomaterial Engineer/Developer
Biomaterial engineers or developers create, test, and process materials to create a variety of products that are implanted in individuals. They study the structures and properties of plastics, metals, composites, ceramics, and other substances. By doing this, they can develop new materials that must meet specific electrical, mechanical, and chemical standards and requirements. Biomaterials jobs are most commonly found in factories and research and development laboratories. There are currently about 27,700 biomaterial engineering jobs, and the BLS projects little-to-no change in new positions within the next eight years. According to the latest data, those currently working in biomaterial engineering enjoy a substantial median hourly pay of $44,88.Biomaterial Engineer/Developer Job Description
Biomaterial engineers/developers are tasked to plan projects, create and implement testing of processing procedures, monitor and evaluate how materials perform, and their impact on the environment. Additionally, part of this bioengineer job description is to consult with managers or other engineers and supervise the work of other scientists, technicians, and technologists. These professionals study materials at the most basic atomic level by using computers to understand their characteristics and components. To apply for a job successfully, you would need at least a Bachelor’s degree, especially for entry level bioengineering jobs.Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, material science, or a related field
- Formidable analytical and math skills
- Outstanding communication, speaking, and writing skills
- Impeccable problem-solving skills
- Knowledge or understanding of medical device requirements and design control processes
Biomaterial Engineer/Developer Salary
- Lowest Pay: $61K
- Highest Pay: $117K
- Average Base Pay: $80,626
- Average Additional Pay: $6,211
Manufacturing Engineer
Manufacturing engineers improve processes and ensure that plastics, pharmaceuticals, food, and drinks are being produced with utmost efficiency and in a cost-effective way. They typically use their engineering skills to produce high-quality foods while reducing the impact of production. For these reasons, manufacturing engineering entails expert technical skills that can be used to set up, design, modify, monitor, and optimize the manufacturing process. The best thing about these manufacturing engineering jobs is that you can get employed in almost every industry that has an end product. That said, manufacturing engineer jobs are present in the automotive industry, aerospace, biotechnology, food and drink industry, pharmaceutical industry, plant and machinery manufacturing, and many others. What’s more, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects about 12,800 additional manufacturing jobs within the next eight years. Even though estimates predict only a 4% increase, there will be about 1,600 new jobs per year by 2028 at a median hourly pay of $42,51.Manufacturing Engineer Job Description
Manufacturing engineers are tasked to design and develop new systems, processes, and equipment to introduce or improve new and existing products. A lot of the time, they may work alongside other engineers and liaise with customers and suppliers. Part of this manufacturing engineer job responsibilities is to identify faults, repair equipment, investigate problems, and organize equipment maintenance.Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or technology
- Creativity and logical thinking
- Formidable mechanical and math skills
- Excellent presentation, communication, and listening skills
- Strong organization, time-management, and project management skills
Manufacturing Engineer Salary
- Lowest Pay: $52K
- Highest Pay: $89K
- Average Base Pay: $68,692
- Average Additional Pay: $3,895
Bioengineering Researcher
Bioengineering researchers incorporate biological methods, principles, and technology with engineering. The objective is to come to scientific conclusions about the development of materials, devices, biological systems, and medicine. These are somewhat less popular bioengineering careers compared to the rest but are fundamental to the bioengineering discipline nonetheless.Bioengineering Researcher Job Description
Bioengineering researchers are responsible for developing and implementing novel analysis techniques and maintaining quality control. These professionals work closely with engineers, neurologists, neuropsychologists, neuroscientists, and physicists. To apply for available bioengineering research jobs, you’d need to hold at least a Masters degree in biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, or any other related discipline. Below is a list of the other minimum requirements candidates need to possess:Minimum Requirements
- Master’s or Ph.D. in biomedical or electrical engineering
- Excellent research and programming skills
- Formidable communication and analytical skills
- Outstanding team working, time-management, and project management skills
- Enthusiastic, motivated, and detail-oriented
Bioengineering Researcher Salary
- Lowest Pay: $35K
- Highest Pay: $89K
- Average Base Pay: $54,411
- Average Additional Pay: $5,017
Biomedical Engineering Work Environment
Most biomedical engineering jobs entail regular working hours — 9 to 5, Monday to Friday. Overtime work, weekend hours or night shifts are rarely common, making these careers in biomedical engineering high in demand. The most common workplaces are universities, hospitals, medical institutions, manufacturing industries, industrial plants, refineries, factories, and offices and laboratories, among others. If you’re interested in working multiple jobs, you should specifically look for part time biomedical engineering jobs, as there might be availability depending on the employer’s needs. Depending on where the employer is located, there might be a need for long commute routes. In case you’re not comfortable with this, you should look online for biomedical engineering jobs near me. It’s a surefire way to find an opportunity close to your home so you can avoid the perils of commuting.Biomedical Engineering Job Outlook
Student graduates looking for a career opportunity in this field can feel at ease. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, almost every biomedical engineering job is projecting growth within the coming years. The largest increase is noticeable in clinical engineering, with a 6% growth rate and the lowest in manufacturing engineering with a 4% growth rate. However, the most significant number of new positions are, in fact, projected in manufacturing engineering, with a whopping 12,800 new jobs by 2028. Entry level biomedical engineering jobs are also a fantastic opportunity, especially for college graduates who are inquiring about the lay of the land. Additionally, many employers also offer biomedical engineering internships. So, that’s another great way to gain the necessary experience and knowledge.Key Takeaways
Deciding which subject to study is a choice that will stay with you for the rest of your life, as your interests will shape your career. If you enjoy working with patients daily, a career in biomedical science is ideal for you. However, if you want to change lives by innovating, creating, and developing new devices, you should go for engineering sciences. The projected increase in biomedical engineering jobs means there will be no shortage of working opportunities in the foreseeable future. To help you search for the right job, we have provided you with a list of the best jobs available to suit your needs. Simply scroll back to the top of the article, view the listing, and find the right occupation for you. We hope you find this article useful in landing your dream job. Good luck!Frequently Asked Questions
What can you do as a biomedical engineer?
The field of engineering is quite new, and the idea of biomedical engineering is to contribute to technological advancements to improve human health.
This discipline has lately been considered a separate field and is now its own study. It combines engineering, medicine, and biology principles looking to advance therapeutic and diagnostic healthcare treatment. A biomedical engineering jobs description typically entail the following: – Designing products and systems – Installing, repairing, adjusting, and maintaining biomedical equipment – Evaluating the efficiency, safety, and effectiveness of biomedical equipment – Training and working with clinicians, scientists, chemists, and other personnel – Researching engineering aspects in humans’ and animals’ biological systemsIs Biomedical Engineering a good major?
Given the fact that this field is relatively new, and with the BLS projections, it’s safe to say that there will be plenty of opportunities to find work in the future.
Most occupations require a Bachelor’s degree, although acquiring a Masters in biomedical engineering to apply for jobs can only increase your chances of getting employed since you’ll be specialized in a specific major. Since this is a discipline that focuses exclusively on helping people with various medical aids and devices, you’d need to show great interest in the design and development part to help people with disabilities. If you’re into this type of work, then yes, biomedical engineering is a good major.Who hires biomedical engineers?
As we said earlier, biomedical engineering is a vast field. Professionals who hold a degree in this field can get employed in various settings, from hospitals and government institutions to drug makers, device makers, and software companies, among others.
Currently, there are about 19,800 jobs with biomedical engineering degree, and this number is likely to increase by up to 4% within the next eight years. The largest employers are the following: – Manufacturers of medical equipment and supplies – Engineering, physical and life sciences research and development departments – State, local, and private professionals schools, colleges, and universities – Social assistance and healthcareIs it hard to get a biomedical engineering job?
This is the most common question among students, especially those looking to start a biomedical engineering career.
Truth be told, there are no easy disciplines or subjects. Hard work, determination, and a lot of sweat are needed to graduate successfully. Getting a biomedical engineering job can be quite tricky and somewhat difficult since you’ll be competing with applicants from all over the world. It is especially tough if you compete with mechanical engineering graduates, as they have more hands-on classes and go in-depth into dynamics and mechanics. To sum up: Yes, it may be hard to get a biomedical engineering job, so you need to brace yourself for long hours of studying and commit to graduating with flying colors before deciding to apply.What is the future of biomedical engineering?
This discipline’s future looks bright, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a steady growth rate for all occupations.
According to the BLS, about 4% is the minimum increase in new positions. This, coupled with a substantial biomedical engineering salary, paves the way for a fantastic future in this field. After all, not many can boast about producing devices that would save people’s lives and earn a considerable salary in the process.Are biomedical engineers in demand?
Biomedical engineers are likely to see solid growth in employment due to the increasing possibilities by new technologies and the growing demand for applications to devices and medical equipment.
Compared to other disciplines, a career in this field will likely yield moderate opportunities within the next eight years. This industry is primarily concentrated within six states in the US. Here’s a list of the states with the number of currently employed engineering professionals: California – 4,280 Massachusetts – 2,520 Illinois – 1,330 Minnesota – 1,300 Texas – 1,030 Pennsylvania – 1,000