# Tasks & work activities — optical engineer

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 17-2199.07 (Photonics Engineers).

## Task statements

- **[Core]** Analyze, fabricate, or test fiber-optic links.
- **[Core]** Design electro-optical sensing or imaging systems.
- **[Core]** Determine commercial, industrial, scientific, or other uses for electro-optical applications or devices.
- **[Core]** Conduct research on new photonics technologies.
- **[Core]** Design, integrate, or test photonics systems or components.
- **[Core]** Analyze system performance or operational requirements.
- **[Core]** Conduct testing to determine functionality or optimization or to establish limits of photonics systems or components.
- **[Core]** Design gas lasers, solid state lasers, infrared, or other light emitting or light sensitive devices.
- **[Core]** Determine applications of photonics appropriate to meet product objectives or features.
- **[Core]** Develop or test photonic prototypes or models.
- **[Core]** Develop optical or imaging systems, such as optical imaging products, optical components, image processes, signal process technologies, or optical systems.
- **[Core]** Assist in the transition of photonic prototypes to production.
- **[Core]** Create or maintain photonic design histories.
- **[Core]** Oversee or provide expertise on manufacturing, assembly, or fabrication processes.
- **[Core]** Read current literature, talk with colleagues, continue education, or participate in professional organizations or conferences to keep abreast of developments in the field.
- **[Core]** Train operators, engineers, or other personnel.
- **[Core]** Design photonics products, such as light sources, displays, or photovoltaics, to achieve increased energy efficiency.
- **[Core]** Write reports or proposals related to photonics research or development projects.
- **[Core]** Document photonics system or component design processes, including objectives, issues, or outcomes.
- **[Supplemental]** Select, purchase, set up, operate, or troubleshoot state-of-the-art laser cutting equipment.
- **[Supplemental]** Design laser machining equipment for purposes such as high-speed ablation.
- **[Supplemental]** Develop laser-processed designs, such as laser-cut medical devices.
- **[Supplemental]** Design or develop new crystals for photonics applications.
- **[Supplemental]** Design or redesign optical fibers to minimize energy loss.
- **[Supplemental]** Design solar energy photonics or other materials or devices to generate energy.
- **[Supplemental]** Develop photonics sensing or manufacturing technologies to improve the efficiency of manufacturing or related processes.

## Detailed work activities

- Analyze operational data to evaluate operations, processes or products.
- Create physical models or prototypes.
- Design electronic or computer equipment or instrumentation.
- Design energy production or management equipment or systems.
- Design industrial processing systems.
- Direct industrial production activities.
- Document technical design details.
- Fabricate devices or components.
- Identify new applications for existing technologies.
- Maintain operational records or records systems.
- Operate industrial equipment.
- Prepare detailed work plans.
- Prepare proposal documents.
- Prepare research or technical reports.
- Purchase materials, equipment, or other resources.
- Research advanced engineering designs or applications.
- Select tools, equipment, or technologies for use in operations or projects.
- Test performance of electrical, electronic, mechanical, or integrated systems or equipment.
- Train personnel on proper operational procedures.
- Update technical knowledge.
- Write reports or evaluations.