According to the Department of Labor, as biomedical engineering grows as a field, the education requirements are also increasing. Because of the intensifying interest in this field, the number of degrees granted in biomedical engineering has increased greatly. Biomedical engineers, particularly those with only a bachelor's degree, may face competition for their jobs. Unlike many other engineering specialties, a graduate degree is recommended, or required, for many entry-level jobs in this field, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Interestingly, the states with the highest concentration of biomedical engineers are California, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Maryland and Utah.


Help Wanted: Technologists, Technicians and Therapists

A heartbeat away from the essential care of clinicians is the contribution of medical technologists, technicians and therapists. Specialists in a number of job categories are experiencing increased demand for their services (see chart).

As a snapshot of the demand/supply balance, it's helpful to look at results from a 2009 survey of U.S. radiology facilities. Results from a Nationwide Survey of Radiation Therapy Facility Managers and Directors conducted by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists show that respondents estimate 7.6% of all FTEs (full-time equivalent positions) budgeted for radiation therapists are currently vacant and recruiting, 8.2% of dosimetrist positions, 12.1% of medical physicist positions, 9.2% of radiation oncologist positions, 7.1% of nursing positions, 6.1% of ancillary staff positions, as well as 10.2% of administrative staff. Note that only 18% of respondents indicated they have experienced consequences of a workforce shortage at their facility. However, an overall greater difficulty was reported in recruiting radiation therapists since last year.




In addition to techs, medical assistants' ranks will grow. For instance, the broad category of medical assistants (35.4% job growth) was the fastest-growing occupation in DOTmed's BLS data dip of selected jobs. Other future needs will be great for physical therapist assistants (32.4%) and physician assistants (27%).

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