In the last few years, both Forbes and CNN Money have lauded biomedical engineering as the best career in healthcare. The possibilities within biomedical engineering are nearly endless; new innovations in technology, materials, and knowledge mean that tomorrow’s breakthroughs can barely be conceived of today.

Career paths in biomedical engineering tend to be driven by the interests of the individual and allow for a great deal of flexibility in job options. The huge breadth of the field allows biomedical engineers to develop specialties in an area that interests them, be it biomaterials, medical devices, biomechanics, or bioinformatics. Biomedical engineers often combine an aptitude for problem solving and technical know-how with focused study in medicine, healthcare, and a general interest in improving health outcomes of the public. It is this hybridization that has led to innovation and plasticity in opportunities available to biomedical engineers.

How much do Biomedical Scientists Make?

In May 2019, the most recent month for which complete government data was available, bioengineers earned a median of $91,410.

Those in medical equipment and supplies manufacturing made less at $89,400 per year, with biomedical engineers employed at colleges, universities and other academic institutions earning $73,300. Meanwhile, bioengineers in navigational, measuring, electromedical and control instruments manufacturing saw the highest annual wages in 2019. The median was $105,720. Overall – meaning biomedical engineers, in general – the top 10% earned $148, 210 annually, BLS data showed. In short, a six-figure salary is more than possible – it’s probable. The more years of experience and education you have, the greater the likelihood of a high-paying job. Other highly respected organizations and publications corroborate BLS’ facts and figures. (https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/biomedical-engineers.htm) The American Institute for Medical and Biomedical Engineering says bioengineers in research and development currently make the most on average at nearly $102,600. The typical bioengineering salary in pharmaceuticals is roughly $98,610 and $95,000 in medical equipment manufacturing.

According to The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, this is a "Bright Outlook" occupation. Employment is expected to grow somewhat faster than the average for all occupations from 2016 through 2026, at about 7%. The services of biomedical engineers are increasingly in demand as the Baby Boomer generation ages. Innovative sectors such as cell and gene therapies, artificial intelligence and ancestry and genetic testing are all forecast to grow in the next five years, some as much as 37%, driving demand for R&D space, diagnostic centers and healthcare facilities, according to Life Sciences 2020: The Future is Here report (https://www.cushmanwakefield.com/en/united-states/insights/life-science-report)