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They provide technical maintenance and repair support for medical and dental equipment used in the Canadian Forces.

The Biomedical Electronics Technologist (BE TECH) is a member of the Health Services team. They provide technical maintenance, and repair support for medical, and dental equipment used in the Canadian Forces. The Biomedical Electronics Technologist can be employed in various settings. Such as in a regional repair facility, or with the Canadian Field Hospital, across Canada, and around the world. BE TECHs maintain medical equipment in accordance with CSA, and manufacturer’s specifications. This includes a variety of medical devices one would expect to see used in the operating room, intensive care, emergency, medical laboratory and diagnostic imaging departments. They utilize electronic instrumentation, and workshop tools in the performance of their duties. They also perform ancillary duties related to administration and logistics.

You must possess a Biomedical Engineering Technologist diploma or the equivalent and want to work on a variety of sophisticated medical equipment and systems, both independently and as part of a highly technical team. You must meet Canadian Forces medical standards and successfully complete a selection process that includes interviews.

The CF has introduced a series of recruitment allowances for eligible NCM applicants entering the Regular Force.

Designed to attract skilled personnel to understrength occupations, the allowances are divided into three categories: post-secondary diploma or certificate NCMs ($10,000 signing bonus), civilian trade-qualified NCMs ($20,000 signing bonus) and MOC-qualified NCMs ($20,000 signing bonus).

The allowances apply to new enrollees, re-enrollees and Reserve Force members who receive a component transfer into this target occupation.

In addition, depending on their qualification level, many qualified recruits will be eligible for incentives such as promotion to the rank of acting corporal immediately after the successful completion of basic training.

As a member of the Canadian Field Hospital or a Medical Detachment, you may be called upon to serve anywhere in the world. Opportunities for career progression, promotion and advanced training depend on your ability, ambition and commitment.

Those who demonstrate the required abilities and ambition can undertake advanced training through formal courses or on-the-job training as they progress in their careers. Specialty training may also be available. Below are examples of training related to this occupation:

• Technical Administration
• Leadership and Management

Biomedical Electronics Technologists work in a field hospital or an Advanced Surgical Centre (ASC) that could be deployed anywhere in the world. They may also work on board a ship where they perform repairs and maintenance. While on deployment, they often work and live under very demanding conditions, including mental stress, and are sometimes exposed to severe conditions for long periods of time. In combat areas, they are subject to the same risk of enemy action as the other combatants. BE TECHs also have the opportunity to travel within Canada. They must make maintenance visits to all medical establishments within the Canadian Forces on a regular basis. In the course of their work, Biomedical Electronics Technologists may be exposed to occupational hazards such as burns and scalds, radiation and mercury contamination, electrical shock and noxious fumes. Therefore, they must remain alert and pay close attention to details at all times.

Appropriate training, environmental clothing and equipment are provided, and Biomedical Electronics Technologists' health, safety and morale are closely monitored.