Photonics Technicians
Build, install, test, or maintain optical or fiber optic equipment, such as lasers, lenses, or mirrors, using spectrometers, interferometers, or related equipment.
Common Job Titles
- Fiber Optics Instructor
- Laser Technician (Laser Tech)
- Optics Technician (Optics Tech)
- Photonics Technician (Photonics Tech)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate spectrometers, interferometers, and optical spectrum analyzers to test and measure optical and fiber optic equipment performance in laboratory settings.Advanced
- Hands-onPerform precision adjustments on optical components and alignment systems using micropositioners, coordinate measuring machines, and interferometric feedback.Advanced
- KnowledgeEvaluate optical equipment performance against technical specifications using quality control analysis and compliance standards.Proficient
- Hands-onAssemble lasers, lenses, mirrors, and fiber optic components following engineering drawings and using precision measurement instruments.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze optical system faults and performance deviations using diagnostic equipment and troubleshooting methodologies in production or field environments.Proficient
- Hands-onCalibrate photonic measurement equipment and optical alignment systems to ensure accuracy within specified tolerances under controlled conditions.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply physics principles and mathematical calculations to optical system design, alignment, and performance optimization tasks.Proficient
- Hands-onExecute installation and maintenance procedures for fiber optic networks using fusion splicers, fiber cleavers, and fault locators according to industry standards.Proficient
- KnowledgeDesign optical test setups and measurement protocols using CAD software and data acquisition systems to support product development and validation.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret technical documentation, engineering specifications, and test data to guide equipment setup, troubleshooting, and reporting activities.Developing
- MindsetEngage with engineering teams and customers to communicate technical findings, coordinate project activities, and provide consultation on photonic systems.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Photonics Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
64,410
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $47,010. 25th percentile: U.S. $59,700. 50th percentile: U.S. $77,390. 75th percentile: U.S. $97,760. 90th percentile: U.S. $114,630. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $47,010 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $114,630 |
| Workers on average earn | $79,740 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Engineering and Technology3.9/5
- Computers and Electronics3.8/5
- Mathematics3.5/5
- Mechanical3.4/5
- Production and Processing3.2/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Dassault Systemes SolidWorks
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
- The MathWorks MATLAB
Technology Skills
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
- Data acquisition software
- Database software
- Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Image processing software
- National Instruments LabVIEW
- Presentation software
Tools & Equipment
- Abrasive grinding machines
- Analog oscilloscopes
- Atomic force microscopes AFM
- Autocollimators
- Bench refractometers
- Binocular light compound microscopes
- Biosafety cabinets
- Bit error rate testers BERT