Career overview

Photonics Engineers

O*NET-SOC 17-2199.07

Median pay / yr$117,750

OutlookBelow Average

Design technologies specializing in light information or light energy, such as laser or fiber optics technology.

What it takes

The skills, knowledge, and credentials employers look for in Photonics Engineers.

Critical ThinkingUsing logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Reading ComprehensionUnderstanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
WritingCommunicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Active ListeningGiving 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.
Active LearningUnderstanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Engineering and TechnologyKnowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
MathematicsKnowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
PhysicsKnowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Computers and ElectronicsKnowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
DesignKnowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

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