Microsystems Engineers
O*NET 17-2199.06 · SOC 17-2199
Microsystems Engineer is a solid career choice. Median pay is $123k a year with +3.7% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 8,800 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Design MEMS sensors for pressure or acceleration measurement applications.
- →Fabricate microfluidic devices using photolithography cleanroom processes.
- →Characterize mechanical properties of microscale structural components.
- →Develop packaging solutions to protect fragile microsystem devices.
- →Simulate electrostatic actuation behavior in microelectromechanical structures.
Education & How to Get In
Microsystems Engineer roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Microsystems Engineer involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Microsystems Engineer?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Microsystems Engineer Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Microsystems Engineers is projected to grow 3.7% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations. The BLS flags this as a Bright Outlook occupation.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·25% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
- ·29% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Microsystems Engineer make?
The median Microsystems Engineer earns $123k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Microsystems Engineer jobs?
Our model puts Microsystems Engineer at 41 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 25% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace; 29% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Microsystems Engineer a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 3.7% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 8,800 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Microsystems Engineer?
Microsystems Engineer roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become a Microsystems Engineer?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Microsystems Engineer career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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