Journeyman Medical Equipment Repair Technician Study Guide & Exam Prep

What to Expect on the Certification Exam

Many employers require certification for BMETs to ensure their competence in maintaining and repairing medical equipment. Certifications such as the Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician (CBET), offered by the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI), are widely recognized in the industry.

Exam Format

• Number of Questions: 150 multiple-choice questions.
• Duration: 3 hours.
• Topics Covered:
  • Anatomy and physiology basics for medical device understanding.
  • Electrical and mechanical principles in biomedical engineering.
  • Troubleshooting and diagnostics for imaging, surgical, and patient monitoring equipment.
  • Safety regulations from OSHA, FDA, and JCAHO.
  • Infection control and sterilization requirements.

Key Topics Covered

1. Medical Device Fundamentals – Understanding how diagnostic and therapeutic devices function.
2. Electrical and Mechanical Systems – Diagnosing faults in power supplies, motors, and circuit boards.
3. Safety and Compliance – Following FDA, OSHA, and JCAHO guidelines for patient and technician safety.
4. Networking & IT Integration – Many modern medical devices require knowledge of hospital IT networks and cybersecurity measures.
5. Preventative Maintenance Procedures – Conducting routine checks to ensure long-term reliability.

Passing Requirements

Most certification exams require a minimum score of 70% to pass. Some certifications also have practical assessments or experience requirements.

Tips for Preparing Effectively

• Utilize Structured Study Guides – Our Q&A and Q/A Explanation products provide focused study material covering all key topics.
• Practice with Online Tests – Our interactive online tests simulate real exam conditions, helping you track progress.
• Gain Hands-On Experience – Many certification programs require practical work experience in a healthcare setting.

Ready to Advance Your Career as a Medical Equipment Repair Technician? Prepare with our Q&A guides, Q/A Explanations, and Online Tests to pass your certification exam and excel in this in-demand field.

What Types of Questions Are on the Certification Exam?

The certification exam covers a broad range of topics to assess a technician’s technical knowledge, troubleshooting ability, and understanding of industry regulations.

Common Question Formats

1. Multiple-Choice Questions – Test theoretical knowledge of medical device operation and repair.
2. Scenario-Based Questions – Assess troubleshooting skills in real-world hospital settings.
3. Calculation Questions – Require determining voltage, current, or mechanical tolerances in medical devices.
4. Tool and Equipment Identification – Recognizing specialized instruments used in equipment maintenance.

Sample Questions

1. Electrical Safety
    What is the maximum allowable leakage current for patient-connected medical devices according to FDA regulations?
    
   • A) 50 microamps
   • B) 100 microamps
   • C) 300 microamps
   • D) 500 microamps
      Answer: B) 100 microamps
2. Biomedical Networking
    Which protocol is commonly used to integrate patient monitoring systems into a hospital’s network?
    
   • A) TCP/IP
   • B) HL7
   • C) HTTP
   • D) FTP
      Answer: B) HL7
3. Troubleshooting and Diagnostics
    A patient ventilator fails to cycle properly. What should the technician check first?
    
   • A) Oxygen supply line
   • B) Power cable connection
   • C) Internal circuit board
   • D) Air intake filter
      Answer: D) Air intake filter

Tips for Answering Exam Questions

• Read Carefully – Ensure you fully understand the question and all answer choices.
• Eliminate Incorrect Answers – Narrow down choices logically.
• Manage Your Time – Allocate enough time per section to avoid rushing.
• Utilize Practice Exams – Familiarize yourself with the test format using our Q&A and Online Tests.

Morning: Preparing for the Day

• Review service requests – Check for urgent repair calls from hospital staff.
• Inspect and test equipment – Ensure patient monitors, infusion pumps, and ventilators are functioning correctly.
• Coordinate with hospital departments – Prioritize high-urgency repairs to maintain critical care services.

Midday: Performing Maintenance and Repairs

• Diagnose malfunctioning devices – Use multimeters, oscilloscopes, and diagnostic software to identify issues.
• Repair or replace faulty components – Fix damaged circuit boards, motors, and power supplies.
• Ensure compliance – Verify that all work aligns with FDA and hospital standards.

Afternoon: Documentation and Preventative Maintenance

• Update service logs – Maintain records of repairs for compliance tracking.
• Train hospital staff – Educate personnel on proper use and care of medical equipment.
• Conduct preventative maintenance checks – Reduce future breakdowns by scheduling routine inspections.

Ready to Become a Certified Medical Equipment Repair Technician? Start preparing today with our Q&A guides, Q/A Explanations, and Online Tests designed to help you pass your certification and excel in the industry.

Earning Potential

Salaries for medical equipment repair technicians vary based on experience, location, and specialization:

• Entry-Level Technicians: $45,000 – $60,000 annually.
• Mid-Level Technicians: $60,000 – $80,000 annually.
• Senior Technicians & Supervisors: $80,000 – $100,000+ annually.

Regional Salary Differences

• West Coast (California, Washington, Oregon): Higher wages due to demand from large hospital networks like Kaiser Permanente and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.
• Midwest (Illinois, Minnesota, Ohio): Steady pay with strong job markets in cities like Chicago, Minneapolis, and Columbus.
• Southeast (Texas, Florida, Georgia): Growth in private healthcare providers such as HCA Healthcare and Baptist Health increases job opportunities.
• Northeast (New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts): Strong employment demand from prestigious institutions like Mass General, Mount Sinai, and the Cleveland Clinic.

Career Growth Opportunities

• Trainee → Certified BMET → Senior Technician → Department Supervisor
• Field Service Technician → Hospital Biomedical Engineer → Healthcare Technology Manager
• Specialization Paths → Imaging Equipment Specialist, Laboratory Equipment Technician, or Surgical Systems Engineer

The Benefits of Certification

• Expanded Job Opportunities – Employers prioritize certified professionals with CBET (Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician) credentials.
• Higher Salaries – Certified technicians earn 15-20% more than non-certified peers.
• Industry Credibility – Certification from AAMI and recognition from organizations like FDA and JCAHO increase hiring potential.

Success Stories

• John, a former electronics technician: Transitioned into medical equipment repair and became a lead technician at Mayo Clinic.
• Lisa, an IT professional: Expanded her skillset into biomedical IT integration and now manages a team at Medtronic.

General Wage Ranges

Wages in medical equipment repair depend on location, experience, and specialization:

• Entry-Level Positions: $45,000 – $60,000 annually.
• Mid-Career Technicians: $60,000 – $80,000 annually.
• Supervisors & Specialists: $80,000 – $100,000+ annually.

Factors That Impact Wages

Several factors contribute to salary variations in the field:

1. Certifications & Education – Higher credentials, such as CBET certification from AAMI, increase earning potential.
2. Industry Specialization – Technicians specializing in MRI, CT scanners, or robotic surgical systems tend to earn higher wages.
3. Union Membership – Membership in IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) or IUOE (International Union of Operating Engineers) ensures competitive wages and benefits.
4. Experience & Training – Hands-on experience in diagnostic imaging, dialysis machines, and anesthesia devices increases salary potential.

Earnings by Industry

• Hospitals & Healthcare Facilities (Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic): $60,000 – $90,000
• Medical Equipment Manufacturers (GE Healthcare, Medtronic): $65,000 – $95,000
• Government Agencies (VA Hospitals, U.S. Army Medical Logistics): $55,000 – $85,000
• Third-Party Service Providers (Agiliti Health, TRIMEDX): $50,000 – $80,000

Opportunities for Wage Growth

Wages increase with additional certifications, specialization, and leadership roles:

1. Advanced Certifications – Earning a Certified Radiology Equipment Specialist (CRES) or Certified Laboratory Equipment Specialist (CLES) credential.
2. Specialized Training – Gaining expertise in 3D printing for medical devices, robotic surgery equipment, or hospital IT systems.
3. Union & Employer Partnerships – Working with IBEW, IUOE, or hospital associations ensures industry-standard wages.
4. Freelance & Consulting Opportunities – Many BMETs transition into independent service contracts or medical device consulting.

Advance Your Career in Medical Equipment Repair! Take advantage of our Q&A guides, Q/A Explanations, and Online Tests to ensure certification success and maximize career earnings.

Why Join a Union or Connect with Employers?

Unions and reputable employers provide medical equipment repair technicians with job security, competitive wages, and career development opportunities. By joining a union or working for a recognized employer, technicians gain access to industry-standard training, benefits, and networking opportunities that can enhance their careers.

Benefits of Joining a Union

• Higher Wages & Benefits – Union members often receive better salaries, health insurance, and retirement plans.
• Job Security & Representation – Unions negotiate fair wages, job protections, and improved working conditions.
• Training & Certification Support – Many unions offer industry-specific training programs and assist with certification preparation.

Top Unions for Medical Equipment Repair Technicians

• International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) – Represents technical workers, including biomedical equipment technicians.
• International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) – Includes specialized healthcare technology maintenance professionals.
• United Steelworkers (USW) – Healthcare Division – Covers workers in medical technology and healthcare facility maintenance.

Connecting with Employers

Many U.S. companies and healthcare organizations actively hire BMETs, offering stable employment and career advancement opportunities:

• GE Healthcare – A leading manufacturer of medical imaging and diagnostic equipment.
• Philips Healthcare – Specializes in patient monitoring and imaging devices.
• Siemens Healthineers – Provides high-tech medical equipment requiring skilled maintenance.
• Veterans Health Administration (VHA) – One of the largest employers of biomedical technicians in government hospitals.
• HCA Healthcare – A major hospital network hiring in-house equipment repair specialists.

Tips for Finding Work

• Utilize Union Job Boards – Many unions have hiring halls that connect members with job openings.
• Network at Industry Events – Attend conferences like AAMI Exchange to meet employers.
• Earn Recognized Certifications – Employers prioritize candidates with CBET certification from AAMI.

How to Stay Ahead in the Industry

Medical equipment repair is constantly evolving due to advances in healthcare technology and regulatory requirements. Staying informed about industry trends and certifications is key to maintaining job relevance and career growth.

Emerging Trends in Medical Equipment Repair

1. Growth in Connected Medical Devices – More hospitals are using IoT-enabled equipment that requires networking and cybersecurity expertise.
2. 3D Printing for Medical Device Repairs – Technicians are learning to use 3D printers to produce custom replacement parts.
3. Increased Demand for AI & Robotics Repair – Artificial intelligence and robotic-assisted surgery systems are expanding, creating a demand for specialized repair technicians.
4. Sustainability in Healthcare Technology – More facilities are focusing on eco-friendly repair and refurbishment practices to reduce medical waste.

Best Practices for Professional Growth

• Pursue Continuing Education – Take advanced courses in hospital IT systems, cybersecurity for medical devices, and imaging technology maintenance.
• Attend Industry Events – Conferences like AAMI Exchange and MD Expo provide insights into new technologies and networking opportunities.
• Build a Professional Portfolio – Document successful repairs, certifications, and specialized training to showcase expertise.
• Stay Current with Regulations – Follow updates from the FDA, OSHA, and The Joint Commission (JCAHO) on medical device safety and compliance.

Challenges and Opportunities

Challenges:

• Keeping up with rapidly changing medical technologies.
• Meeting strict regulatory and safety compliance standards.
• Managing the transition to hospital-wide interconnected medical systems.

Opportunities:

• Growth in telemedicine and remote diagnostics increases demand for skilled technicians.
• Expansion of AI-powered medical imaging systems creates specialized repair roles.
• Hospitals investing in preventative maintenance programs provide job security.

Sustainability in Practice

1. Eco-Friendly Equipment Disposal – Recycling and refurbishing medical devices to reduce electronic waste.
2. Energy-Efficient Medical Devices – Hospitals are adopting lower-energy equipment, requiring technicians with expertise in sustainability practices.
3. Lifecycle Extension Programs – Many healthcare facilities now focus on extending the lifespan of devices through proactive maintenance.

Why Staying Ahead Matters

Technicians who stay current with emerging technologies, earn specialized certifications, and expand their skill sets will have the best job prospects in this growing field.

Stay Competitive in Medical Equipment Repair! Prepare for certification with our Q&A guides, Q/A Explanations, and Online Tests designed to help you succeed in the industry.