Photonics Technicians

O*NET 17-3029.08 · SOC 17-3029

Projected Growth
+4%
2024–2034
Median Salary
$78k
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Education Level
Zone 3
Medium preparation needed (vocational or associate's)

Education & How to Get In

📋
Job Zone 3
Medium preparation needed (vocational or associate's)

Most Photonics Technicians positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.

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Work Environment

Primary Setting

Hands-on — labs, workshops, or field sites

Work Style

Mixed — alternates between solo focused work and collaboration

Personality Fit (RIASEC)

Realistic (Doers)7.0
Conventional (Organizers)5.5
Investigative (Thinkers)4.2
Artistic (Creators)1.0
Social (Helpers)1.0
Enterprising (Persuaders)1.0

Who Thrives as Photonics Technician?

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.

ISTPThe CraftspersonISTJThe InspectorINTJThe StrategistESTJThe Executive

Not sure which you are? Take the free 5-minute quiz →

See Open Photonics Technicians Roles

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Is Photonics Technicians right for you?

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