Nanosystems Engineers
Nanosystems engineers design and develop materials, devices, or systems built at the molecular level, using principles from physics, chemistry, biology, and electrical engineering. They work in research laboratories, manufacturing facilities, and technology companies, applying nanoscale science to create products ranging from semiconductors to medical devices.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against nanosystems engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A nanosystems engineer might spend time running simulations of molecular structures, analyzing experimental data from electron microscopes, or troubleshooting production processes for nanoscale components. Work includes collaborating with researchers, writing technical reports, attending meetings about project timelines, and testing prototypes. Some days involve hands-on lab work; others focus on design optimization using specialized software.
Who this work suits
Holland code IRC. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're drawn to investigative work—solving complex technical problems through research and experimentation—and prefer concrete, real-world applications over theory alone. You have strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the patience for extensive education and specialized training required to work with materials and systems at the atomic scale.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold doct.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $119,430 | $162,070 | $180,190 | 2,190 |
| Alabama | $116,040 | $152,550 | $183,040 | 3,460 |
| District of Columbia | $101,990 | $151,920 | $185,220 | 3,560 |
| Virginia | $116,920 | $148,160 | $181,660 | 5,060 |
| Alaska | $123,120 | $142,390 | $164,260 | 200 |
| Washington | $109,550 | $134,570 | $168,550 | 3,580 |
| Colorado | $105,050 | $132,590 | $164,800 | 2,540 |
| New Jersey | $93,670 | $132,450 | $170,460 | 4,540 |
| Massachusetts | $103,010 | $131,260 | $162,470 | 2,850 |
| Idaho | $100,430 | $130,970 | $153,570 | 560 |
| California | $98,520 | $130,850 | $169,830 | 28,610 |
| Maryland | $83,840 | $129,770 | $172,580 | 7,340 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) — American Society for Quality
- Certified Green Building Engineer (GBE) — Association of Energy Engineers
- Certified Planning Engineer (CPE) — American Academy of Project Management
- Certified Welding Engineer — American Welding Society
- Test and Balance Engineer (TBE) — Associated Air Balance Council
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against nanosystems engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 17-2199.09 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.