Frequently Asked Questions about Rehabilitation Engineer Careers

A rehabilitation engineer is a type of engineer who uses their engineering skills to help individuals with physical disabilities, including those with spinal cord injuries and other medical conditions, to gain greater independence. They design and develop products, services, and strategies that enable people with disabilities to participate more fully in their daily activities. This may include creating devices to help with mobility, communication, and other activities of daily living.

In order to become a Rehabilitation Engineer, a professional must typically possess a bachelor’s degree in engineering with a specialization in biomedical engineering or a related field. Additional qualifications may include a master’s degree in engineering, certification from the American Board of Rehabilitation Engineering, and/or experience in a related field.

The job outlook for Rehabilitation Engineers is highly positive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of Rehabilitation Engineers is projected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029. This growth is slightly faster than the average for all occupations.

Rehabilitation engineers may access support from a variety of sources, including professional organizations, such as the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA). RESNA provides resources such as webinars, publications, and advocacy on behalf of rehabilitation engineers and their patients. Other resources include peer support groups, online forums, and consultants who specialize in the field.

1. Designing and developing assistive technology and rehabilitation devices to help people with physical, cognitive, or sensory disabilities. 2. Assessing individuals with disabilities to determine their needs and capabilities. 3. Developing strategies for integrating assistive technology into the home, school, or workplace environment. 4. Evaluating the effectiveness of assistive technology and rehabilitation devices. 5. Training individuals with disabilities to use assistive technology and rehabilitation devices. 6. Consulting with medical professionals, therapists, and educators to create individualized rehabilitation plans. 7. Working with manufacturers to improve the design of assistive technology and rehabilitation devices. 8. Keeping abreast of advances in assistive technology and rehabilitation devices.

Salary expectations for Rehabilitation Engineers vary widely based on experience, location, and industry. Generally, Rehabilitation Engineers can expect to earn an average salary of $62,000 per year. However, salaries can range from $50,000 to $75,000.