Photonics Engineers
O*NET 17-2199.07 · SOC 17-2199
Photonics 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 optical fiber communication systems for high-speed data transmission.
- →Select laser sources and detectors for photonic circuit integration.
- →Test optical component performance using spectrum analyzers and interferometers.
- →Develop photonic integrated circuits for sensing or imaging applications.
- →Optimize lens assemblies to minimize aberration in optical systems.
Education & How to Get In
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Photonics Engineer roles. Related majors and internship experience during college significantly improve your chances. Many employers also value relevant certifications or project portfolios alongside the degree.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Photonics Engineer involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Photonics 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 Photonics Engineer Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Photonics 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?
- ·31% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
- ·33% 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 Photonics Engineer make?
The median Photonics 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 Photonics Engineer jobs?
Our model puts Photonics Engineer at 35 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 31% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace; 33% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Photonics 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 Photonics Engineer?
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Photonics Engineer roles, and relevant internships matter as much as the subject.
How long does it take to become a Photonics Engineer?
Typically about four years, typically a bachelor's degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 4 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Photonics 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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