Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Photonics Engineer specializes in the science and technology of generating, controlling, and detecting photons, primarily in the visible and near-infrared light spectrum. They apply their expertise in optics, lasers, and photonics to develop new products and technologies in telecommunications, healthcare, manufacturing, and other fields.
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 3.3% (average)
Annual job openings: 9,300
Direct AI exposure: 13% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 44% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $123K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $67K per year | $91K per year | $123K per year | $158K per year | $190K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $72K above the national average. | ||||
Photonics Engineers typically work in research and development environments within the technology, telecommunications, medical, or manufacturing industries. Their work often takes place in laboratories and cleanrooms, where they design and test photonics systems and components. Some may also work in academic settings or governmental research institutions.
Photonics Engineers are at the cutting edge of technology, working on innovations that underpin modern telecommunications, high-speed internet, advanced manufacturing, and medical imaging. They combine principles of optics, electronics, and material science to develop new photonic technologies. This field is highly interdisciplinary, requiring a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills in physics, engineering, and materials science.
Photonics Engineers often work on complex problems, requiring creativity and innovative thinking. Their work involves not only designing and developing new photonic devices but also improving existing technologies for better efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and performance. They must keep abreast of the latest scientific advancements and industry trends to stay competitive.
In addition to technical expertise, Photonics Engineers need strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams. They often engage in extensive research and development, testing and refining their ideas through experiments and prototypes. This field is dynamic and evolving, offering opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth.
A bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, or a related field is generally required, which is about 4 years of post-secondary education. However, many positions, particularly in research and development, may require a master's degree or PhD.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
