Median Annual Wage: $94,240
Education: Bachelor's degree (54%); Master's degree (25%); Doctoral degree (13%)
Projected Growth: Slower than average (3% to 7%)
Related Job Titles: System Engineer; Laser Engineer; Optical Design Engineer; Optical Engineer; Optical Engineering Manager; Optical Scientist; Optical Systems Engineer; Optoelectronics Engineer; Process Engineering and Metrology Manager; Technology Director
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Source: O*NET OnLine information for Photonics Engineers.
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- Develop optical or imaging systems, such as optical imaging products, optical components, image processes, signal process technologies, or optical systems.
- Analyze system performance or operational requirements.
- Write reports or research proposals.
- Assist in the transition of photonic prototypes to production.
- Develop or test photonic prototypes or models.
- Conduct testing to determine functionality or optimization or to establish limits of photonics systems or components.
- Design electro-optical sensing or imaging systems.
- Read current literature, talk with colleagues, continue education, or participate in professional organizations or conferences to keep abreast of developments in the field.
- Conduct research on new photonics technologies.
- Determine applications of photonics appropriate to meet product objectives or features.
- Document design processes including objectives, issues, and outcomes.
- Oversee or provide expertise on manufacturing, assembly, or fabrication processes.
- Train operators, engineers, or other personnel.
- Determine commercial, industrial, scientific, or other uses for electro-optical applications or devices.
- Design gas lasers, solid state lasers, infrared, or other light emitting or light sensitive devices.
Source: O*NET OnLine information for Photonics Engineers.
- Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
- Mathematics - Using mathematics to solve problems.
- Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
- Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
- Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
- Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
- Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
- Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
- Operations Analysis - Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Source: O*NET OnLine information for Photonics Engineers.