optical-engineer/references/tasks.md

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.