Photonics Technicians
17-3029.08
Updated 2024

Build, install, test, or maintain optical or fiber optic equipment, such as lasers, lenses, or mirrors, using spectrometers, interferometers, or related equipment.

Sample of reported job titles: Fiber Optics Technician, Laser Technician (Laser Tech), Optomechanical Technician, Photonic Laboratory Technician (Photonic Lab Tech), Photonics Technician, Ruling Technician

Occupation-Specific Information

Tasks Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceCategoryTask
85
 
Core
Maintain clean working environments, according to clean room standards.
84
 
Core
Compute or record photonic test data.
81
 
Core
Adjust or maintain equipment, such as lasers, laser systems, microscopes, oscilloscopes, pulse generators, power meters, beam analyzers, or energy measurement devices.
80
 
Core
Set up or operate assembly or processing equipment, such as lasers, cameras, die bonders, wire bonders, dispensers, reflow ovens, soldering irons, die shears, wire pull testers, temperature or humidity chambers, or optical spectrum analyzers.
78
 
Core
Document procedures, such as calibration of optical or fiber optic equipment.
71
 
Core
Perform diagnostic analyses of processing steps, using analytical or metrological tools, such as microscopy, profilometry, or ellipsometry devices.
70
 
Core
Assist engineers in the development of new products, fixtures, tools, or processes.
69
 
Core
Mix, pour, or use processing chemicals or gases according to safety standards or established operating procedures.
69
 
Core
Assist scientists or engineers in the conduct of photonic experiments.
68
 
Core
Assemble fiber optical, optoelectronic, or free-space optics components, subcomponents, assemblies, or subassemblies.
66
 
Core
Set up or operate prototype or test apparatus, such as control consoles, collimators, recording equipment, or cables.
63
 
Core
Test or perform failure analysis for optomechanical or optoelectrical products, according to test plans.
62
 
Core
Assemble or adjust parts or related electrical units of prototypes to prepare for testing.
58
 
Core
Recommend optical or optic equipment design or material changes to reduce costs or processing times.
56
 
Core
Monitor inventory levels and order supplies as necessary.
73
 
Supplemental
Repair or calibrate products, such as surgical lasers.
64
 
Supplemental
Monitor mechanical factors, such as turbine load or strain information.
64
 
Supplemental
Terminate, cure, polish, or test fiber cables with mechanical connectors.
64
 
Supplemental
Design, build, or modify fixtures used to assemble parts.
60
 
Supplemental
Splice fibers, using fusion splicing or other techniques.
57
 
Supplemental
Optimize photonic process parameters by making prototype or production devices.
57
 
Supplemental
Build prototype optomechanical devices for use in equipment such as aerial cameras, gun sights, or telescopes.
53
 
Supplemental
Assemble components of energy-efficient optical communications systems involving photonic switches, optical backplanes, or optoelectronic interfaces.
50
 
Supplemental
Lay out cutting lines for machining, using drafting tools.
46
 
Supplemental
Perform laser seam welding, heat treatment, or hard facing operations.
46
 
Supplemental
Fabricate devices, such as optoelectronic or semiconductor devices.
39
 
Supplemental
Build photonics tools to be applied to electrical grids to detect hot spots, such as failing insulators or conductors.
31
 
Supplemental
Assemble devices or equipment to be used in green technology applications, including solar energy, high efficiency solid state lighting, energy management, smart buildings, or green processes.
25
 
Supplemental
Develop solar power sources for lasers used in fiber optics.
8
 
Supplemental
Fabricate sensors to be used to control wind turbines.
Find occupations related to multiple tasks

Technology Skills Save Table: XLSX CSV

Hot technology
Hot Technologies are requirements most frequently included across all employer job postings.
In demand
In Demand skills are frequently included in employer job postings for this occupation.

Tools Used Save Table: XLSX CSV

Occupational Requirements

Work Activities Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceWork Activity
80
 
Working with Computers — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
78
 
Making Decisions and Solving Problems — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
77
 
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
74
 
Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
73
 
Documenting/Recording Information — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
70
 
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
70
 
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
68
 
Controlling Machines and Processes — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
68
 
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
67
 
Processing Information — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
65
 
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
64
 
Analyzing Data or Information — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
61
 
Thinking Creatively — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
60
 
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
58
 
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
58
 
Training and Teaching Others — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
55
 
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
55
 
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
54
 
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
54
 
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
53
 
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
53
 
Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
53
 
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
52
 
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
46
 
Developing and Building Teams — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
44
 
Monitoring and Controlling Resources — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
43
 
Coaching and Developing Others — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
43
 
Developing Objectives and Strategies — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
43
 
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
42
 
Communicating with People Outside the Organization — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
42
 
Scheduling Work and Activities — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
38
 
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
38
 
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
37
 
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
35
 
Performing Administrative Activities — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
35
 
Performing General Physical Activities — Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
28
 
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
27
 
Assisting and Caring for Others — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
21
 
Staffing Organizational Units — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
20
 
Selling or Influencing Others — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
8
 
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.

Detailed Work Activities Save Table: XLSX CSV

Find occupations related to multiple detailed work activities

Work Context Save Table: XLSX CSV

  • Face-to-Face Discussions — How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?
    • 72%
      72%
       
      Every day
    • 28%
      28%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
  • Electronic Mail — How often do you use electronic mail in this job?
    • 76%
      76%
       
      Every day
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
    • 60%
      60%
       
      Extremely important
    • 32%
      32%
       
      Very important
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?
    • 72%
      72%
       
      Every day
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets — How much does this job require wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hard hats or life jackets?
    • 56%
      56%
       
      Every day
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
  • Telephone — How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?
    • 48%
      48%
       
      Every day
    • 32%
      32%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
  • Time Pressure — How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?
    • 28%
      28%
       
      Every day
    • 44%
      44%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
  • Freedom to Make Decisions — How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
    • 24%
      24%
       
      A lot of freedom
    • 48%
      48%
       
      Some freedom
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Limited freedom
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Very little freedom
  • Duration of Typical Work Week — Number of hours typically worked in one week.
    • 40%
      40%
       
      More than 40 hours
    • 60%
      60%
       
      40 hours
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls — How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls?
    • 44%
      44%
       
      Continually or almost continually
    • 24%
      24%
       
      More than half the time
    • 12%
      12%
       
      About half the time
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Never
  • Work With Work Group or Team — How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?
    • 68%
      68%
       
      Very important
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Important
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — What results do your decisions usually have on other people or the image or reputation or financial resources of your employer?
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Very important results
    • 32%
      32%
       
      Important results
    • 28%
      28%
       
      Moderate results
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Minor results
  • Responsible for Others' Health and Safety — How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job?
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Very high responsibility
    • 36%
      36%
       
      High responsibility
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Moderate responsibility
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Limited responsibility
  • Consequence of Error — How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable?
    • 28%
      28%
       
      Extremely serious
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Very serious
    • 32%
      32%
       
      Serious
  • Structured versus Unstructured Work — To what extent is this job structured for the worker, rather than allowing the worker to determine tasks, priorities, and goals?
    • 52%
      52%
       
      Some freedom
    • 28%
      28%
       
      Limited freedom
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Very little freedom
  • Frequency of Decision Making — How frequently is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization?
    • 28%
      28%
       
      Every day
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
  • Contact With Others — How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?
    • 40%
      40%
       
      Contact with others most of the time
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Contact with others about half the time
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Occasional contact with others
  • Letters and Memos — How often does the job require written letters and memos?
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Every day
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Never
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks — How important is repeating the same physical activities (e.g., key entry) or mental activities (e.g., checking entries in a ledger) over and over, without stopping, to performing this job?
    • 17%
      17%
       
      Extremely important
    • 25%
      25%
       
      Very important
    • 29%
      29%
       
      Important
    • 17%
      17%
       
      Fairly important
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Not important at all
  • Spend Time Standing — How much does this job require standing?
    • 32%
      32%
       
      More than half the time
    • 28%
      28%
       
      About half the time
    • 32%
      32%
       
      Less than half the time
  • Coordinate or Lead Others — How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job?
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Very important
    • 44%
      44%
       
      Important
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Fairly important
  • Level of Competition — To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Highly competitive
    • 48%
      48%
       
      Moderately competitive
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Slightly competitive
  • Physical Proximity — To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people?
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Moderately close (at arm's length)
    • 56%
      56%
       
      Slightly close (e.g., shared office)
    • 24%
      24%
       
      I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)
  • Responsibility for Outcomes and Results — How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers?
    • 32%
      32%
       
      High responsibility
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Moderate responsibility
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Limited responsibility
  • Exposed to Hazardous Conditions — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous conditions?
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Every day
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Sitting — How much does this job require sitting?
    • 24%
      24%
       
      More than half the time
    • 32%
      32%
       
      About half the time
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Less than half the time
  • Exposed to Contaminants — How often does this job require working exposed to contaminants (such as pollutants, gases, dust or odors)?
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Every day
    • 28%
      28%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Never
  • Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable — How often does this job require working exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable?
    • 32%
      32%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Never
  • Deal With External Customers — How important is it to work with external customers or the public in this job?
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Extremely important
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Very important
    • 28%
      28%
       
      Important
    • 28%
      28%
       
      Fairly important
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Not important at all
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous equipment?
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Every day
    • 28%
      28%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 28%
      28%
       
      Never
  • Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection — How much does this job require wearing specialized protective or safety equipment such as breathing apparatus, safety harness, full protection suits, or radiation protection?
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Every day
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 40%
      40%
       
      Never
  • Degree of Automation — How automated is the job?
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Highly automated
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Moderately automated
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Slightly automated
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Not at all automated
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — How much does this job require making repetitive motions?
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Continually or almost continually
    • 12%
      12%
       
      About half the time
    • 52%
      52%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Never
  • Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting — How often does this job require working in extremely bright or inadequate lighting conditions?
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Every day
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 44%
      44%
       
      Never
  • Frequency of Conflict Situations — How often are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job?
    • 28%
      28%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 60%
      60%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
  • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment — How important is it to this job that the pace is determined by the speed of equipment or machinery? (This does not refer to keeping busy at all times on this job.)
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Extremely important
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Important
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Fairly important
    • 28%
      28%
       
      Not important at all
  • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in non-controlled environmental conditions (e.g., warehouse without heat)?
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Never
  • Deal With Unpleasant or Angry People — How frequently does the worker have to deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous individuals as part of the job requirements?
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 60%
      60%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — How often does this job require exposure to minor burns, cuts, bites, or stings?
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Every day
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 33%
      33%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 38%
      38%
       
      Never
  • Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions — How often does this job require working in cramped work spaces that requires getting into awkward positions?
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 40%
      40%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Walking and Running — How much does this job require walking and running?
    • 12%
      12%
       
      About half the time
    • 68%
      68%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Never
  • In an Enclosed Vehicle or Equipment — How often does this job require working in a closed vehicle or equipment (e.g., car)?
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Every day
    • 17%
      17%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 58%
      58%
       
      Never
  • Outdoors, Under Cover — How often does this job require working outdoors, under cover (e.g., structure with roof but no walls)?
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 32%
      32%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 44%
      44%
       
      Never
  • Outdoors, Exposed to Weather — How often does this job require working outdoors, exposed to all weather conditions?
    • 32%
      32%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 48%
      48%
       
      Never
  • Public Speaking — How often do you have to perform public speaking in this job?
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 64%
      64%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Bending or Twisting the Body — How much does this job require bending or twisting your body?
    • 56%
      56%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 32%
      32%
       
      Never
  • Work Schedules — How regular are the work schedules for this job?
    • 44%
      44%
       
      Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)
    • 56%
      56%
       
      Regular (established routine, set schedule)
  • Very Hot or Cold Temperatures — How often does this job require working in very hot (above 90 F degrees) or very cold (below 32 F degrees) temperatures?
    • 16%
      16%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 56%
      56%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Radiation — How often does this job require exposure to radiation?
    • 12%
      12%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 68%
      68%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling — How much does this job require kneeling, crouching, stooping or crawling?
    • 64%
      64%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to High Places — How often does this job require exposure to high places?
    • 40%
      40%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 52%
      52%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles — How much does this job require climbing ladders, scaffolds, or poles?
    • 44%
      44%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 52%
      52%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance — How much does this job require keeping or regaining your balance?
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 76%
      76%
       
      Never
  • In an Open Vehicle or Equipment — How often does this job require working in an open vehicle or equipment (e.g., tractor)?
    • 20%
      20%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 76%
      76%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Disease or Infections — How often does this job require exposure to disease/infections?
    • 92%
      92%
       
      Never
  • Deal With Physically Aggressive People — How frequently does this job require the worker to deal with physical aggression of violent individuals?
    • 92%
      92%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Whole Body Vibration — How often does this job require exposure to whole body vibration (e.g., operate a jackhammer)?
    • 92%
      92%
       
      Never

Experience Requirements

Job Zone Save Table: XLSX CSV

Title
Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed
Education
Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Related Experience
Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
Job Training
Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Job Zone Examples
These occupations usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include hydroelectric production managers, desktop publishers, electricians, agricultural technicians, barbers, court reporters and simultaneous captioners, and medical assistants.
SVP Range
(6.0 to < 7.0)

Training & Credentials

State training
Local training
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Apprenticeship Opportunities

Example apprenticeship titles for this occupation:

  • Optics Manufacturing Technician

Specific title(s) listed above are vetted by industry and approved by the U.S. Department of Labor for use in a Registered Apprenticeship Program.

Start your career and build your skillset. Visit Apprenticeship.gov to learn about opportunities related to this occupation.

Worker Requirements

Skills Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceSkill
66
 
Reading Comprehension — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
63
 
Operations Monitoring — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
60
 
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.
60
 
Quality Control Analysis — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
56
 
Active Learning — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
56
 
Complex Problem Solving — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
56
 
Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
56
 
Equipment Maintenance — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
56
 
Monitoring — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
56
 
Troubleshooting — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
53
 
Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
53
 
Speaking — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
53
 
Writing — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
50
 
Repairing — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
50
 
Systems Evaluation — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
50
 
Time Management — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
47
 
Installation — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
47
 
Systems Analysis — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
44
 
Coordination — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
44
 
Equipment Selection — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
44
 
Operation and Control — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
44
 
Social Perceptiveness — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
41
 
Instructing — Teaching others how to do something.
41
 
Service Orientation — Actively looking for ways to help people.
38
 
Learning Strategies — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
38
 
Management of Personnel Resources — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
38
 
Mathematics — Using mathematics to solve problems.
38
 
Technology Design — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
35
 
Persuasion — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
35
 
Science — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
31
 
Negotiation — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
31
 
Programming — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
25
 
Management of Financial Resources — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
25
 
Management of Material Resources — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
25
 
Operations Analysis — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.

Knowledge Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceKnowledge
73
 
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.
70
 
Computers and Electronics — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
66
 
Mathematics — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
64
 
Mechanical — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
61
 
English Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
61
 
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.
57
 
Design — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
46
 
Production and Processing — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
44
 
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 methods.
44
 
Education and Training — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
42
 
Administrative — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
41
 
Public Safety and Security — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
39
 
Telecommunications — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
32
 
Communications and Media — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
30
 
Customer and Personal Service — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
29
 
Administration and Management — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
29
 
Law and Government — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
28
 
Building and Construction — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
20
 
Personnel and Human Resources — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
19
 
Sales and Marketing — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
18
 
Transportation — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
15
 
Biology — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
14
 
Economics and Accounting — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
11
 
Geography — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
9
 
Psychology — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
8
 
Medicine and Dentistry — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
8
 
Philosophy and Theology — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
6
 
Foreign Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
6
 
Sociology and Anthropology — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
5
 
Therapy and Counseling — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
4
 
Fine Arts — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
3
 
History and Archeology — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
2
 
Food Production — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.

Education

How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation? Respondents said:

  • 32%
     
    Associate’s degree required
  • 16%
     
    Some college, no degree required
  • 12%
     
    High school diploma or equivalent required

Worker Characteristics

Abilities Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceAbility
66
 
Problem Sensitivity — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
63
 
Finger Dexterity — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
63
 
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).
63
 
Near Vision — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
63
 
Oral Comprehension — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
63
 
Written Comprehension — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
63
 
Written Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
60
 
Oral Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
56
 
Arm-Hand Steadiness — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
56
 
Control Precision — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
56
 
Deductive Reasoning — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
56
 
Inductive Reasoning — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
56
 
Manual Dexterity — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
53
 
Perceptual Speed — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
53
 
Selective Attention — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
53
 
Visual Color Discrimination — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
50
 
Category Flexibility — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
50
 
Visualization — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
47
 
Far Vision — The ability to see details at a distance.
47
 
Flexibility of Closure — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
47
 
Mathematical Reasoning — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
47
 
Speech Clarity — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
47
 
Speech Recognition — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
44
 
Fluency of Ideas — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
44
 
Hearing Sensitivity — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
44
 
Multilimb Coordination — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
44
 
Number Facility — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
41
 
Depth Perception — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
41
 
Originality — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
41
 
Speed of Closure — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
41
 
Time Sharing — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
38
 
Reaction Time — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
38
 
Response Orientation — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
35
 
Auditory Attention — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
35
 
Memorization — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
35
 
Rate Control — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
35
 
Trunk Strength — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
35
 
Wrist-Finger Speed — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
25
 
Static Strength — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
6
 
Extent Flexibility — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
6
 
Spatial Orientation — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
3
 
Dynamic Flexibility — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
3
 
Speed of Limb Movement — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
0
 
Dynamic Strength — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
0
 
Explosive Strength — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
0
 
Glare Sensitivity — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
0
 
Gross Body Coordination — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
0
 
Gross Body Equilibrium — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
0
 
Night Vision — The ability to see under low-light conditions.
0
 
Peripheral Vision — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
0
 
Sound Localization — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
0
 
Stamina — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.

Interests Save Table: XLSX CSV

Occupational InterestInterest
100
 
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.
69
 
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.
54
 
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.
1
 
Artistic — Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.
0
 
Enterprising — Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
0
 
Social — Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.

Work Values Save Table: XLSX CSV

ExtentWork Value
61
 
Achievement — Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
61
 
Support — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
56
 
Independence — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
56
 
Recognition — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.
56
 
Relationships — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.
56
 
Working Conditions — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.

Work Styles Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceWork Style
89
 
Attention to Detail — Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
81
 
Dependability — Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
75
 
Integrity — Job requires being honest and ethical.
72
 
Cooperation — Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
71
 
Analytical Thinking — Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
71
 
Initiative — Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
71
 
Persistence — Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
70
 
Achievement/Effort — Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
70
 
Adaptability/Flexibility — Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
66
 
Stress Tolerance — Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
64
 
Innovation — Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
62
 
Independence — Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
60
 
Self-Control — Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
52
 
Concern for Others — Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
47
 
Leadership — Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.
38
 
Social Orientation — Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job.

Workforce Characteristics

Wages & Employment Trends

Median wage data for Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other.
Employment data for Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other.
Industry data for Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other.
Median wages (2022)
$31.50 hourly, $65,520 annual
State wages
Local wages
Employment (2022)
74,100 employees
Projected growth (2022-2032)
Average (2% to 4%)
Projected job openings (2022-2032)
7,000
State trends
Top industries (2022)

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2022 wage data and 2022-2032 employment projections . “Projected growth” represents the estimated change in total employment over the projections period (2022-2032). “Projected job openings” represent openings due to growth and replacement.

Job Openings on the Web

State job openings
Local job openings

More Information

Professional Associations

Disclaimer: Sources are listed to provide additional information on related jobs, specialties, and/or industries. Links to non-DOL Internet sites are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.

National Associations
Accreditation, Certification, & Unions