Standard Occupational Classification (SOC): Mechanical Engineers

Mechanical engineers can play a variety of roles in the healthcare industry, depending on their area of expertise and the specific needs of the organization they work for. Some common areas where mechanical engineers are employed in the healthcare industry include:

Medical device design and development: Mechanical engineers can design and develop a wide range of medical devices, such as prosthetic limbs, surgical instruments, and diagnostic equipment.

Biomechanics: Mechanical engineers can use their knowledge of mechanics and materials to study the movement of the human body and the forces it experiences. This can be applied in areas such as orthopedic surgery, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.

Robotics and automation: Mechanical engineers can design and develop robotic systems that are used in a variety of healthcare applications, such as surgery, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.

Medical imaging: Mechanical engineers can design and develop systems for medical imaging, such as X-ray machines, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners, and computed tomography (CT) scanners.

Medical facilities design and construction: Mechanical engineers can be involved in the design and construction of medical facilities, such as hospitals and clinics. They can design HVAC and plumbing systems, as well as ensure that the building meets all necessary safety and health codes.

Medical research: Mechanical engineers can be involved in biomedical research, using their expertise in engineering and materials science to develop new technologies and therapies.

Supply chain and manufacturing: mechanical engineers might be involved in optimizing supply chain and manufacturing processes to increase efficiency and reduce costs.

As with any field, mechanical engineers in healthcare may need to wear multiple hats and have a combination of skills as it covers multidisciplinary aspects such as mechanical design, electrical engineering, materials science and others.