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Careers · Photonics Engineers · District of Columbia

Photonics Engineers in District of Columbia

Photonics engineers design and develop technologies that use light for information processing or energy applications, including lasers and fiber optics systems. They work in manufacturing facilities, research laboratories, telecommunications companies, and defense contractors, applying physics principles to create practical light-based solutions. In District of Columbia the median pay is $151,920 a year, 24% above the national median of $122,930.

$151,920median pay in District of Columbia, per year
$101,990–$185,220middle half earn
3,560employed in District of Columbia
$122,930U.S. median, for comparison
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Who is hiring in District of Columbia

10open roles like this on employer career sites, 0 in District of Columbia or remote
2employers hiring
4posted in the last 7 days
CA · WA · MDwhere most openings are

What it takes

Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most hold a bachelor’s degree.

Skills that matter most

Critical ThinkingReading ComprehensionWritingActive ListeningSpeakingMathematicsActive LearningScience

Knowledge areas

Engineering and TechnologyMathematics (knowledge)PhysicsComputers and ElectronicsDesignEnglish Language

Full profile, interests that fit, certifications and training: Photonics Engineers.

Licenses and training in District of Columbia

Photonics Engineers pay in other states

Related occupations

Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against photonics engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
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O*NET-SOC 17-2199.07. Pay: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, District of Columbia, annual.