There are currently an estimated 21,300 biomedical engineers in the United States. The biomedical engineer job market is expected to grow by 7.0% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are biomedical engineers?

CareerExplorer rates biomedical engineers with a C employability rating, meaning this career should provide moderate employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 5,800 biomedical engineers. That number is based on 1,500 additional biomedical engineers, and the retirement of 4,300 existing biomedical engineers.

Are biomedical engineers in demand?

Due to the small size of this occupation, the expected significant growth in the field will result in limited openings. Within this framework, however, biomedical engineers will likely see greater demand for their services because of the broadness of both their profession and their training. Scientists, researchers, and manufacturers in the medical and pharmaceutical sectors will continue to call upon biomedical engineers to address injuries and physical disabilities; to develop advanced prostheses and artificial body organs; and to improve healthcare technology and rehabilitation practices. As baby boomers live longer and remain active, there will be increased demand for biomedical devices and procedures, such as hip and knee replacements. Entrants to the field typically require a Bachelor’s Degree in biomedical engineering or a related engineering discipline. Those who specialize in the rapidly developing areas of cellular, molecular, tissue, or orthopedic engineering; or in biomechanics may enhance their job prospects. Candidates wishing to lead a research team must have a graduate degree. Those seeking a tenure-track university faculty position require a Doctorate Degree. Continuing education is imperative for biomedical engineers, as technology advances in the field occur often and sustain strong competition for jobs.

What’s the supply of biomedical engineers?

The biomedical engineer industry is concentrated in California, Massachusetts, Illinois

Biomedical Engineer job market by state

State Name Employed Biomedical Engineers
California 4,280
Massachusetts 2,520
Illinois 1,330
Minnesota 1,300
Texas 1,030
Pennsylvania 1,000
Ohio 760
Maryland 710
Florida 690
Indiana 600
New York 560
Utah 550
Colorado 520
North Carolina 430
Tennessee 330
Georgia 320
Michigan 300
Washington 300
Oregon 300
Arizona 290
New Jersey 270
Virginia 220
Missouri 190
Wisconsin 190
Connecticut 180
South Carolina 130
Iowa 80
Arkansas 60
Kentucky 60
Nebraska 60
New Hampshire 60
Maine 50
District of Columbia 50
West Virginia 50
Kansas 30