Photonics Technicians
O*NET 17-3029.08 · SOC 17-3029
Photonics Technician is a solid career choice. Median pay is $78k a year with +2.8% projected growth through 2035 (slower than average) and about 5,400 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Align and assemble laser optical components to manufacturer specifications.
- →Test fiber optic cables for signal loss using optical power meters.
- →Troubleshoot malfunctions in photonic sensor systems on the bench.
- →Splice and terminate fiber optic connectors for system installations.
- →Calibrate laser output wavelength and power using optical spectrum analyzers.
Education & How to Get In
Most Photonics Technician 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.
Get Started Learning
Ready to start building skills for a career as a Photonics Technician? These platforms offer courses you can start today, many with free trials or financial aid.
Links open in a new tab. Some may include affiliate partnerships.
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 Technician involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
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.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Photonics Technician Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
Explore More Careers
Job Outlook
Employment of Photonics Technicians is projected to grow 2.8% from 2025 to 2035, slower than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·45% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·41% 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 Technician make?
The median Photonics Technician earns $78k 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 Technician jobs?
Our model puts Photonics Technician at 50 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 45% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 41% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Photonics Technician a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 2.8% between 2025 and 2035, which is slower than average. That works out to roughly 5,400 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Photonics Technician?
Most Photonics Technician roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Photonics Technician?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Photonics Technician 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.
Take the assessment →Free to take · Matches $9 · No account required · 7 minutes