Photonics engineer
Also known as
Work environment
- Usually work regular business hours
- Usually work in offices, workshops and manufacturing sites, and may travel locally
- Need to be practical, logical and methodical
Salary information
Typical tasks
- Design technology that uses light
- Build prototypes of photonics devices
- Test photonics systems and devices
- Analyse data to understand photonics systems
- Prepare project plans
- Write reports, proposals and evaluations
- Find new uses for photonics technology
Outlook
Photonics is a rapidly developing field that uses light-based technologies in areas such as communications, healthcare, manufacturing and sensing. International growth in fibre-optic networks, quantum technologies, advanced imaging and semiconductor technologies is driving innovation. In New Zealand, photonics contributes to research and high-tech industries, with ongoing advances expected to support new products, services and scientific discoveries.
What employers and industry want in graduates
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to apply mathematics and physics concepts
- Attention to detail and technical accuracy
- Confidence using advanced technologies and equipment
- Innovation and creative thinking
- Teamwork and communication skills
AUT programmes
The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.
Further study options
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This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.