Careers in light — Day of Light

Careers in optics and photonics

Opportunities are everywhere because photonics is everywhere

From virtual reality and smartphones to state-of-the-art devices that reveal the smallest landscapes as well as the vastness of space, light-based science is everywhere. The device you are using now to read this was manufactured with lasers.

Optics and photonics touch countless industries and the demand for those who work in light continues to grow. And best of all, light-based technologies directly respond to the needs of humankind. The many applications of photonics have already transformed society through improved medicine, communications, and energy production.

Find a job in optics and photonics

SPIE Career Center

Optics and photonics jobs from leading companies in the optics and photonics community.

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OPTICA WORKinOPTICS

Find a great job! Explore Optica's extensive listings of career opportunities in optics and photonics.

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Examples of jobs in optics and photonics

Optical Engineer

Education: BS or MS
Create light technology that can change the world. Oversee the scientific application of optics and light in an industrial, research, or manufacturing setting. Use light properties and other materials to produce, control, and manipulate light for use in high-tech devices.
Optical engineers work in a variety of fields - like agriculture, aerospace, lighting, textiles, and design - influencing the development of innovative technological solutions.
Photonics Researcher

Education: PhD
Help discover the next generation of technology powered by light. Conduct research and design optics and photonics devices, develop measurement methodology and apparatus to test and characterize your creations, and perform experiments to demonstrate their ability in various potential applications.
The work of researchers leads to critical breakthroughs that impact how we tackle the world’s greatest challenges.
Laser Technician

Education: Associates Degree
Technicians help put light to work. Work on components found in the Mars Rover, robots that work in disaster zones, and life-saving medical equipment.
A two-year college degree or apprenticeship provides a foundation for technicians to develop a basic understanding of the use of lasers and optics-enabling technologies to access a career that is exciting, fast-paced, and always changing.