Photonics Engineers
What is a Photonics Engineer?
A Photonics Engineer is a professional who specializes in the study and application of photonics, which is the science and technology of generating, controlling, and detecting photons, particularly in the visible and near-infrared spectrum. Photonics Engineers work with a range of optical systems, including lasers, fiber optics, and imaging devices. They are involved in the design, development, and testing of photonic devices and systems used in various industries such as telecommunications, medical technology, manufacturing, and defense. This field combines principles from physics, engineering, and materials science to innovate and create solutions that utilize the properties of light for various applications, including data transmission, imaging systems, and optical sensors. The work of a Photonics Engineer often includes research and development, prototype testing, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to advance optical technologies and improve performance in diverse applications.
Tasks
- Analyze system performance or operational requirements.
- Develop optical or imaging systems, such as optical imaging products, optical components, image processes, signal process technologies, or optical systems.
- Develop or test photonic prototypes or models.
- Design, integrate, or test photonics systems or components.
- Assist in the transition of photonic prototypes to production.
Technology Skills
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Presentation software
- Analytical or scientific software
- Development environment software
- Object or component oriented development software
Tools Used
- Lasers
- Semiconductor process systems
- Fluorescent microscopes
- Scanning light or spinning disk or laser scanning microscopes
- Interferometers
Knowledge
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Engineering and Technology
Knowledge 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.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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Physics
Knowledge 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.
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Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
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Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Skills
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Writing
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
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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.
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Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Abilities
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Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
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Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
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Information Ordering
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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Mathematical Reasoning
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Bachelor's degree
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Master's degree
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Associate's degree
Work Activities
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Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
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Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
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Analyzing Data or Information
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Processing Information
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Detailed Work Activities
- Analyze operational data to evaluate operations, processes or products.
- Design electronic or computer equipment or instrumentation.
- Test performance of electrical, electronic, mechanical, or integrated systems or equipment.
- Create physical models or prototypes.
- Prepare detailed work plans.
Work Interests
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$62130.0 - $177020.0
New job opportunities are likely in the future. : Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.