Architecture & Engineering · Design technologies specializing in light information or light energy, such as laser or fiber optics technology.
This profile is intended as career exploration guidance based on federal labor data. Actual job requirements, salaries, and opportunities vary by employer and location.
Entry Salary
$32–39k
First 1–2 years
Peak Salary
$121–143k
10+ years experience
Job Outlook
+2.1% · As fast as average
Projected growth of 2.1% from 2024 to 2034; about 9 openings projected per year.
Time to Start
4–6 years
College degree typical
Salary data sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2024. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, employer, and specialization.
Entry-Level Engineers
Photonics Engineers
Experienced Photonics Engineers
Senior Photonics Engineers
Director of Architecture & Engineering
You prioritize Achievement
This career is strongly aligned with Achievement — a core work value that shapes how people approach their career decisions.
You're strong in Active Learning
Active Learning is a top skill for this career, and it plays to what students like you naturally do best.
Good fit for your timeline
This career typically requires a bachelor's degree, which matches common student preparation goals.
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388 schools offer programs in this career field.
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