Photonics Engineers Go Back to List Design technologies specializing in light information or light energy, such as laser or fiber optics technology.

Technology used in this occupation:
	Analytical or scientific software

Tasks
	Select, purchase, set up, operate, or troubleshoot state-of-the-art laser cutting equipment.
	Analyze, fabricate, or test fiber-optic links.
	Design electro-optical sensing or imaging systems.
	Design laser machining equipment for purposes such as high-speed ablation.
	Develop laser-processed designs, such as laser-cut medical devices.
	Determine commercial, industrial, scientific, or other uses for electro-optical applications or devices.
	Conduct research on new photonics technologies.
	Design, integrate, or test photonics systems or components.
	Analyze system performance or operational requirements.
	Conduct testing to determine functionality or optimization or to establish limits of photonics systems or components.

Skills
	Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
	Mathematics - Using mathematics to solve problems.
	Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
	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.
	Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
	Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
	Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
	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.
	Systems Analysis - Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.

Knowledge
	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.
	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.
	Design - Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
	Mathematics - Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
	Computers and Electronics - Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
	English Language - Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
	Production and Processing - Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
	Mechanical - Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
	Chemistry - Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal m
	Telecommunications - Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.

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Education & Training   Education:   Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.   Related Experience:   A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.

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Wage Information
	Region Average Entry Level  Mid-Range  Annual  Hourly  Statewide $122,567.00 $58.92  $40.21  $49.38 - $65.64  Bridgeport/Stamford $132,837.00 $63.86  $45.66  $51.99 - $69.89  Danbury $96,128.00 $46.21  $30.77  $34.57 - $60.05  Hartford $114,436.00 $55.02  $38.60  $41.03 - $64.90  New Haven $127,198.00 $61.15  $39.89  $46.74 - $79.22  New London/Norwich $127,167.00 $61.14  $42.52  $51.16 - $68.62  Waterbury $76,823.00 $36.94  $25.01  $28.12 - $42.31  Torrington $91,092.00 $43.79  $32.24  $38.80 - $49.79

Occupation Outlook ( 2016 - 2026 ) Average Annual Job Openings:   129   Employment in this occupation is expected to grow faster than average, but the number of annual openings will offer good or favorable job opportunities.

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	Some of the occupational information on this page is formulated from O*NETTM v17.0 data. O*NETTM is a trademark of the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.