Tasks   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

10 of 26 displayed (16 important)

All 26 displayed (16 important)

Importance	Category	Task
80	Core	Design, integrate, or test photonics systems or components.
74	Core	Develop optical or imaging systems, such as optical imaging products, optical components, image processes, signal process technologies, or optical systems.
73	Core	Analyze system performance or operational requirements.
69	Core	Write reports or research proposals.
68	Core	Assist in the transition of photonic prototypes to production.
68	Core	Develop or test photonic prototypes or models.
66	Core	Conduct testing to determine functionality or optimization or to establish limits of photonics systems or components.
66	Core	Design electro-optical sensing or imaging systems.
63	Core	Read current literature, talk with colleagues, continue education, or participate in professional organizations or conferences to keep abreast of developments in the field.
63	Core	Conduct research on new photonics technologies.
62	Core	Determine applications of photonics appropriate to meet product objectives or features.
60	Core	Document design processes including objectives, issues, and outcomes.
57	Core	Oversee or provide expertise on manufacturing, assembly, or fabrication processes.
52	Core	Train operators, engineers, or other personnel.
52	Core	Determine commercial, industrial, scientific, or other uses for electro-optical applications or devices.
50	Core	Design gas lasers, solid state lasers, infrared, or other light emitting or light sensitive devices.
49	Supplemental	Analyze, fabricate, or test fiber-optic links.
45	Supplemental	Create or maintain photonic design histories.
32	Supplemental	Develop laser-processed designs, such as laser-cut medical devices.
27	Supplemental	Design laser machining equipment for purposes such as high-speed ablation.
21	Supplemental	Select, purchase, set up, operate, or troubleshoot state-of-the-art laser cutting equipment.
Not available	Not available	Design or develop new crystals for photonics applications.
Not available	Not available	Design or redesign optical fibers to minimize energy loss.
Not available	Not available	Design photonics products, such as light sources, displays, or photovoltaics, to achieve increased energy efficiency.
Not available	Not available	Design solar energy photonics or other materials or devices to generate energy.
Not available	Not available	Develop photonics sensing or manufacturing technologies to improve the efficiency of manufacturing or related processes.

Find occupations related to multiple tasks

back to top

Technology Skills   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

All 10 displayed

• Analytical or scientific software — Adept Scientific GRAMS; Mathsoft Mathcad; The MathWorks MATLAB ; Wolfram Research Mathematica (see all 9 examples)
• Computer aided design CAD software — Autodesk AutoCAD ; Dassault Systemes CATIA ; Optiwave OptiFDTD; Photon Design FIMMWAVE (see all 9 examples)
• Development environment software — C ; Microsoft .NET Framework ; Microsoft Visual Basic ; National Instruments LabVIEW
• Electronic mail software — Microsoft Outlook
• Graphics or photo imaging software — Microsoft Visio
• Object or component oriented development software — C# ; C++ ; Python
• Office suite software — Microsoft Office
• Presentation software — Microsoft PowerPoint
• Spreadsheet software — Microsoft Excel
• Word processing software — Microsoft Word

Hot Technology — a technology requirement frequently included in employer job postings.

back to top

Tools Used   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

10 of 41 displayed

All 41 displayed

back to top

Knowledge   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

10 of 33 displayed (8 important)

All 33 displayed (8 important)

Importance		Knowledge
93		Engineering and Technology — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
86		Physics — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub- atomic structures and processes.
83		Design — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
83		Mathematics — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
68		Computers and Electronics — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
63		English Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
52		Mechanical — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
52		Production and Processing — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
42		Chemistry — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
42		Telecommunications — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
41		Administration and Management — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
36		Customer and Personal Service — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
31		Public Safety and Security — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
30		Sales and Marketing — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
28		Clerical — Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.
28		Education and Training — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
27		Personnel and Human Resources — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
22		Communications and Media — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
19		Building and Construction — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
19		Economics and Accounting — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
19		Law and Government — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
18		Biology — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
12		Foreign Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
12		Transportation — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
8		Geography — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
7		Medicine and Dentistry — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
6		History and Archeology — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
6		Psychology — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
4		Philosophy and Theology — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
4		Sociology and Anthropology — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures and their history and origins.
4		Therapy and Counseling — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
2		Food Production — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
1		Fine Arts — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.

back to top

Skills   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

10 of 35 displayed (18 important)

All 35 displayed (18 important)

Importance		Skill
78		Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
63		Mathematics — Using mathematics to solve problems.
63		Reading Comprehension — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
60		Active Learning — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
60		Active Listening — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
60		Complex Problem Solving — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
60		Writing — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
56		Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
56		Speaking — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
53		Operations Analysis — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
53		Science — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
53		Systems Analysis — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
53		Systems Evaluation — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
53		Technology Design — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
50		Coordination — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
50		Instructing — Teaching others how to do something.
50		Monitoring — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
50		Quality Control Analysis — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
47		Equipment Selection — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
47		Operation Monitoring — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
47		Persuasion — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
47		Time Management — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
44		Learning Strategies — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
44		Social Perceptiveness — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
41		Management of Personnel Resources — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
41		Service Orientation — Actively looking for ways to help people.
38		Negotiation — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
38		Operation and Control — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
38		Repairing — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
38		Troubleshooting — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
35		Equipment Maintenance — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
35		Management of Material Resources — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
35		Programming — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
28		Management of Financial Resources — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
10		Installation — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

back to top

Abilities   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

10 of 52 displayed (22 important)

All 52 displayed (22 important)

Importance		Ability
69		Deductive Reasoning — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
69		Mathematical Reasoning — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
66		Information Ordering — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
66		Problem Sensitivity — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
63		Fluency of Ideas — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
63		Inductive Reasoning — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
63		Number Facility — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
63		Oral Comprehension — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
63		Originality — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
63		Written Comprehension — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
63		Written Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
60		Category Flexibility — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
60		Near Vision — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
60		Selective Attention — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
60		Visualization — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
56		Far Vision — The ability to see details at a distance.
56		Oral Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
56		Speech Clarity — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
53		Flexibility of Closure — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
53		Speech Recognition — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
50		Perceptual Speed — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
50		Visual Color Discrimination — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
47		Finger Dexterity — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
44		Arm-Hand Steadiness — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
44		Manual Dexterity — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
44		Memorization — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
44		Speed of Closure — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
41		Control Precision — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
41		Depth Perception — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
38		Hearing Sensitivity — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
35		Multilimb Coordination — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
35		Time Sharing — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
31		Glare Sensitivity — The ability to see objects in the presence of glare or bright lighting.
28		Auditory Attention — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
28		Response Orientation — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
22		Rate Control — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
22		Reaction Time — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
22		Static Strength — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
16		Wrist-Finger Speed — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
10		Speed of Limb Movement — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
6		Trunk Strength — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without 'giving out' or fatiguing.
3		Extent Flexibility — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
3		Sound Localization — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
3		Spatial Orientation — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
0		Dynamic Flexibility — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
0		Dynamic Strength — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
0		Explosive Strength — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
0		Gross Body Coordination — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
0		Gross Body Equilibrium — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
0		Night Vision — The ability to see under low light conditions.
0		Peripheral Vision — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
0		Stamina — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.

back to top

Work Activities   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

10 of 41 displayed (27 important)

All 41 displayed (27 important)

Importance		Work Activity
91		Analyzing Data or Information — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
85		Making Decisions and Solving Problems — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
85		Processing Information — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
83		Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
83		Interacting With Computers — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
75		Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
75		Thinking Creatively — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
74		Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
73		Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
71		Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
69		Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
67		Documenting/Recording Information — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
67		Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
65		Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
63		Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
62		Developing Objectives and Strategies — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
62		Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
60		Communicating with Persons Outside Organization — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
60		Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
58		Scheduling Work and Activities — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
57		Developing and Building Teams — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
57		Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
56		Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
54		Provide Consultation and Advice to Others — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
52		Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
50		Controlling Machines and Processes — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
50		Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
47		Training and Teaching Others — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
45		Monitoring and Controlling Resources — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
44		Coaching and Developing Others — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
43		Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
40		Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
39		Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
38		Selling or Influencing Others — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
33		Staffing Organizational Units — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
30		Performing Administrative Activities — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
29		Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
24		Assisting and Caring for Others — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
22		Performing General Physical Activities — Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
18		Performing for or Working Directly with the Public — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
16		Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or water craft.

back to top

Detailed Work Activities   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

10 of 21 displayed

All 21 displayed

back to top

Work Context   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

10 of 57 displayed

All 57 displayed

Work Context	Percentage of Top Responses
Electronic Mail — How often do you use electronic mail in this job?	96    Every day
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?	88    Every day
Face-to-Face Discussions — How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?	75    Every day 21    Once a week or more but not every day
Telephone — How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?	50    Every day 46    Once a week or more but not every day
Duration of Typical Work Week — Number of hours typically worked in one week.	71    More than 40 hours 29    40 hours
Structured versus Unstructured Work — To what extent is this job structured for the worker, rather than allowing the worker to determine tasks, priorities, and goals?	46    A lot of freedom 50    Some freedom
Freedom to Make Decisions — How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?	50    A lot of freedom 33    Some freedom 17    Limited freedom
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?	46    Extremely important 42    Very important 13    Important
Work With Work Group or Team — How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?	42    Extremely important 42    Very important 13    Important
Contact With Others — How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?	42    Constant contact with others 29    Contact with others most of the time 29    Contact with others about half the time
Spend Time Sitting — How much does this job require sitting?	17    Continually or almost continually 54    More than half the time 25    About half the time
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets — How much does this job require wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hard hats or life jackets?	13    Every day 54    Once a week or more but not every day 13    Once a month or more but not every week 13    Once a year or more but not every month
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — What results do your decisions usually have on other people or the image or reputation or financial resources of your employer?	58    Important results 21    Moderate results 13    Minor results
Coordinate or Lead Others — How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job?	38    Very important 38    Important 17    Fairly important
Letters and Memos — How often does the job require written letters and memos?	17    Every day 25    Once a week or more but not every day 38    Once a month or more but not every week 21    Once a year or more but not every month
Consequence of Error — How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable?	17    Extremely serious 29    Very serious 25    Serious 13    Fairly serious 17    Not serious at all
Responsibility for Outcomes and Results — How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers?	33    High responsibility 38    Moderate responsibility 25    Limited responsibility
Time Pressure — How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?	21    Once a week or more but not every day 54    Once a month or more but not every week 13    Once a year or more but not every month
Deal With External Customers — How important is it to work with external customers or the public in this job?	13    Extremely important 29    Very important 21    Important 33    Fairly important
Level of Competition — To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?	29    Highly competitive 42    Moderately competitive 25    Slightly competitive
Physical Proximity — To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people?	13    Moderately close (at arm's length) 67    Slightly close (e.g., shared office)
Frequency of Decision Making — How frequently is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization?	17    Every day 42    Once a month or more but not every week 29    Once a year or more but not every month
Responsible for Others' Health and Safety — How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job?	29    High responsibility 46    Moderate responsibility 21    Limited responsibility
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls — How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls?	29    More than half the time 17    About half the time 38    Less than half the time
Frequency of Conflict Situations — How often are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job?	46    Once a month or more but not every week 38    Once a year or more but not every month
Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting — How often does this job require working in extremely bright or inadequate lighting conditions?	17    Once a week or more but not every day 33    Once a month or more but not every week 33    Never
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks — How important is repeating the same physical activities (e.g., key entry) or mental activities (e.g., checking entries in a ledger) over and over, without stopping, to performing this job?	21    Very important 17    Important 38    Fairly important 21    Not important at all
Public Speaking — How often do you have to perform public speaking in this job?	29    Once a month or more but not every week 63    Once a year or more but not every month
Spend Time Standing — How much does this job require standing?	29    About half the time 67    Less than half the time
Deal With Unpleasant or Angry People — How frequently does the worker have to deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous individuals as part of the job requirements?	29    Once a month or more but not every week 67    Once a year or more but not every month
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous conditions?	17    Once a week or more but not every day 25    Once a month or more but not every week 25    Once a year or more but not every month 33    Never
Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable — How often does this job require working exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable?	17    Once a month or more but not every week 54    Once a year or more but not every month 21    Never
Degree of Automation — How automated is the job?	21    Moderately automated 58    Slightly automated 17    Not at all automated
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous equipment?	13    Once a week or more but not every day 21    Once a month or more but not every week 17    Once a year or more but not every month 50    Never
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — How much does this job require making repetitive motions?	13    More than half the time 42    Less than half the time 38    Never
Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions — How often does this job require working in cramped work spaces that requires getting into awkward positions?	13    Once a month or more but not every week 39    Once a year or more but not every month 43    Never
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in non-controlled environmental conditions (e.g., warehouse without heat)?	13    Once a month or more but not every week 42    Once a year or more but not every month 42    Never
Spend Time Walking and Running — How much does this job require walking and running?	78    Less than half the time 22    Never
Exposed to Contaminants — How often does this job require working exposed to contaminants (such as pollutants, gases, dust or odors)?	38    Once a year or more but not every month 50    Never
Work Schedules — How regular are the work schedules for this job?	25    Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration) 71    Regular (established routine, set schedule)
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection — How much does this job require wearing specialized protective or safety equipment such as breathing apparatus, safety harness, full protection suits, or radiation protection?	21    Once a year or more but not every month 63    Never
Exposed to Radiation — How often does this job require exposure to radiation?	25    Once a year or more but not every month 63    Never
Spend Time Bending or Twisting the Body — How much does this job require bending or twisting your body?	33    Less than half the time 58    Never
Outdoors, Under Cover — How often does this job require working outdoors, under cover (e.g., structure with roof but no walls)?	29    Once a year or more but not every month 63    Never
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling — How much does this job require kneeling, crouching, stooping or crawling?	48    Less than half the time 52    Never
Very Hot or Cold Temperatures — How often does this job require working in very hot (above 90 F degrees) or very cold (below 32 F degrees) temperatures?	38    Once a year or more but not every month 58    Never
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Equipment — How often does this job require working in a closed vehicle or equipment (e.g., car)?	13    Once a month or more but not every week 17    Once a year or more but not every month 70    Never
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment — How important is it to this job that the pace is determined by the speed of equipment or machinery? (This does not refer to keeping busy at all times on this job.)	21    Important 79    Not important at all
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — How often does this job require exposure to minor burns, cuts, bites, or stings?	21    Once a year or more but not every month 75    Never
Outdoors, Exposed to Weather — How often does this job require working outdoors, exposed to all weather conditions?	17    Once a year or more but not every month 75    Never
Deal With Physically Aggressive People — How frequently does this job require the worker to deal with physical aggression of violent individuals?	88    Never
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance — How much does this job require keeping or regaining your balance?	17    Less than half the time 83    Never
Exposed to High Places — How often does this job require exposure to high places?	13    Once a year or more but not every month 88    Never
Exposed to Disease or Infections — How often does this job require exposure to disease/infections?	91    Never
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration — How often does this job require exposure to whole body vibration (e.g., operate a jackhammer)?	92    Never
In an Open Vehicle or Equipment — How often does this job require working in an open vehicle or equipment (e.g., tractor)?	92    Never
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles — How much does this job require climbing ladders, scaffolds, or poles?	100    Never

back to top

Job Zone   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

back to top

Education

Percentage of Respondents	Education Level Required
54	Bachelor's degree
25	Master's degree
13	Doctoral degree

back to top

Credentials

back to top

Interests   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

All 6 displayed (4 important)

Occupational Interest		Interest
100		Investigative — Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
72		Realistic — Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
50		Artistic — Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.
50		Conventional — Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
11		Enterprising — Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.
6		Social — Social occupations frequently involve working with, communicating with, and teaching people. These occupations often involve helping or providing service to others.

back to top

Work Styles   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

10 of 16 displayed (14 important)

All 16 displayed (14 important)

Importance		Work Style
89		Analytical Thinking — Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
88		Attention to Detail — Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
79		Innovation — Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
76		Achievement/Effort — Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
76		Initiative — Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
75		Integrity — Job requires being honest and ethical.
75		Persistence — Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
74		Dependability — Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
73		Adaptability/Flexibility — Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
72		Cooperation — Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
68		Independence — Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
62		Stress Tolerance — Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high stress situations.
60		Self Control — Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
56		Leadership — Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.
49		Concern for Others — Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
40		Social Orientation — Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job.

back to top

Work Values   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

All 6 displayed (4 important)

Extent		Work Value
78		Achievement — Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
78		Independence — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
67		Recognition — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.
67		Working Conditions — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
45		Relationships — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.
39		Support — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.

back to top

Related Occupations   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

All 10 displayed

13-1081.01	Logistics Engineers
17-2011.00	Aerospace Engineers
17-2031.00	Biomedical Engineers
17-2071.00	Electrical Engineers
17-2072.00	Electronics Engineers, Except Computer   Green
17-2141.00	Mechanical Engineers   Bright Outlook
17-2199.01	Biochemical Engineers
17-2199.03	Energy Engineers
17-2199.08	Robotics Engineers
17-3029.06	Manufacturing Engineering Technologists

back to top

Wages & Employment Trends

Median wages data collected from Engineers, All Other.
Employment data collected from Engineers, All Other.
Industry data collected from Engineers, All Other.

Median wages (2016)	$46.78 hourly, $97,300 annual
State wages
Employment (2014)	137,000 employees
Projected growth (2014-2024)	Slower than average (2% to 4%)
Projected job openings (2014-2024)	33,000
State trends
Top industries (2014)	Government (25% employed in this sector) Manufacturing (23%) Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services (23%) (see all industries)

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2016 wage data and 2014-2024 employment projections . "Projected growth" represents the estimated change in total employment over the projections period (2014-2024). "Projected job openings" represent openings due to growth and replacement.

back to top

Job Openings on the Web

back to top

Sources of Additional Information

All 3 displayed

Disclaimer: Sources are listed to provide additional information on related jobs, specialties, and/or industries. Links to non-DOL Internet sites are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.

• Optics and Photonics Education Directory
• SPIE , P.O. Box 10, Bellingham, WA 98227. Phone: (888) 504-8171. Fax: (360) 647-1445.
• The Optical Society (OSA) , 2010 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036. Phone: (202) 223-8130. Fax: (202) 223-1096.