Medical Appliance Technicians
Medical appliance technicians construct, maintain, and repair devices that support or replace body functions, including braces, prosthetics, orthotics, and arch supports. They work in orthotics and prosthetics labs, hospitals, clinics, and medical supply companies, using hand tools, machines, and technical knowledge to create custom-fitted devices for patients.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against medical appliance technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves taking measurements and molds from patients, fabricating devices using materials like plastic and metal, adjusting fit and alignment, and performing repairs on existing appliances. Technicians work at workbenches with specialized equipment, consult with prosthetists or orthotists on design requirements, and may spend time fitting devices to patients to ensure proper function and comfort.
Who this work suits
Holland code RIC. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy hands-on problem-solving and understanding how things work mechanically. You're detail-oriented, patient with precise technical work, and interested in the practical science behind medical devices—combining investigative thinking with realistic, tangible results that directly help patients.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | $64,200 | $72,760 | $81,600 | 300 |
| Pennsylvania | $46,910 | $60,920 | $77,040 | 200 |
| Massachusetts | $52,520 | $59,810 | $73,550 | — |
| Colorado | $48,060 | $59,560 | $78,250 | — |
| Virginia | $45,860 | $56,260 | $61,830 | 260 |
| New Hampshire | $49,110 | $54,980 | $72,510 | 40 |
| Nebraska | $52,860 | $54,770 | $79,880 | 170 |
| North Carolina | $44,380 | $54,650 | $65,990 | 600 |
| Connecticut | $45,300 | $54,430 | $66,020 | 130 |
| Minnesota | $49,910 | $53,750 | $58,410 | — |
| South Dakota | $40,620 | $52,950 | $61,470 | 30 |
| New Jersey | $44,380 | $52,400 | $58,580 | 310 |
All 40 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) — National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians
- Medical Gas Installer 6010 — National Inspection, Testing and Certification Corporation
- Medical Gas Maintenance Personnel 6040 — National Inspection, Testing and Certification Corporation
- EKG Technician Online National Certification (CET) — American Allied Health
- Medical Gas Instructor 6050 — National Inspection, Testing and Certification Corporation
- Medical Gas Inspector 6020 — National Inspection, Testing and Certification Corporation
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against medical appliance technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-9082.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.