Photonics is the field of science that use light to generate energy, transmit or detect information and the fiber optics technology is used for transmission of light and images through glass fibers. Photonics engineers are the experts who are involved in the design, manufacture and use of laser and fiber optics technology. As the name of profession indicates, it comes from the word photon, which is the unit of light.

These professionals may design and modify the laser devices or components and supervise the testing of laser systems. They also apply these laser techniques in various other fields like medicine, military and telecommunication and construction industries. Many of the Photonics Engineers find their jobs in large telecommunication companies and optical fiber manufacturers. They usually focus in solving problems concerned with light sources that are used in fiber optics. They are related with modulating light sources and scheming the wavelength, duration and intensity of light. To perform this task, photonics engineer normally use the spectrometer that measures the characteristics of light. Some of these experts are mainly concerned in refining the optical fibers’ purity. Photonics engineers may perform in many different roles in diverse industries.

Qualifying Exam

The candidates need at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering to become a professional in this field. They can obtain this degree in any of the disciplines such as electrical engineering, engineering physics, engineering science or mechanical engineering. Very few universities in the country offer this graduate degree in photonics or optics technology. Candidates can also gain an exposure in this field by doing the work-study degree programmes. This will be helpful for them to get into the concerned job easily. Many of the positions in this field require qualification in advanced degree. They must be proficient in computer technologies like CAD or CAM.

Who is eligible to apply?

For the bachelor’s degree in any of the prescribed engineering discipline, students can apply after pursuing their higher secondary or equivalent education with Physics and Mathematics from a reputed institution. While pursuing this undergraduate degree, they can also apply for the part time job or internship programmes to get experience in this area. On completing this graduation from a recognized university, interested applicants are eligible to apply for the Photonics Engineer job.

Key points in the process

• Study 12th or equivalent with Physics and Mathematics from a recognized institution and obtain good scores in the concerned examinations.
• Join for the bachelor’s degree in any of the engineering disciplines such as mechanical, electrical or physics in a reputed university and obtain the degree.
• Gain experience in this field by working with an industry that offers the entry level job or complete the internship training.
• Search out for the employment as Photonics Engineer and apply for the position.

Skills required for a Photonics Engineer

The career as Photonics Engineer is most apt for the individuals who have the keen interest to work in engineering field and to work with the aspects of light and related issues. They must also possess certain other qualities to carry out this profession. They must have a strong aptitude in mathematics as well as in physics. They should be able to perform well in team work and should have the ability to present the ideas and information accurately. Meticulous working, problem solving ability and proper orientation towards the task are other skills required by these experts.