Laser Technicians construct, test, and repair laser devices, applying both the theory and principles of laser engineering and electronic circuits. Laser devices amplify and concentrate light waves and then emit them in a narrow, very intense beam. Laser is an acronym for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation.

JOB DUTIES

Laser Technicians may:

Review laser project instructions with engineers to clarify specifications

Interpret detail requirements, such as dimensions and functional requirements, for workers engaged in grinding mirror blanks, coating mirror surfaces, machining metal parts, or blowing glass resonator units

Install and align mirrors in laser units in chassis

Operate controls of vacuum pumps and gas transfer equipment to evacuate laser tubes and fill laser bodies with gases

Assemble completed laser units in chassis

Install tubing and wiring to connect valves, regulators, dials, and switches, and other items

Test laser devises for proper operation

Check laser tolerances and specifications

Analyze test data and report to engineering personnel

Troubleshoot malfunctioning laser equipment

Replace components to repair equipment

Record and log data and maintain files

Laser Technicians may also operate precision laser equipment used in various manufacturing, testing and measurement, inspection, or other specialized processes.

The tools, equipment and machines used may include:

Materials used by Laser Technicians may include:

OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES

Laser Technicians may specialize and work primarily in laboratory, production, technical, service-related, sales or other applications of laser technology.

019.261-034 LASER TECHNICIANS construct, test, and repair laser devices, applying both the theory and principles of laser engineering and electronic circuits. Laser devices amplify and concentrate light waves and then emit them in a narrow, very intense beam. Laser Technicians may specialize and work under such titles as Laser electro-optical technician, gyro-optics technician, industrial laser process technician, and medical laser technician. The vast majority, however, have traditional titles such as electronics technician, engineering assistant, electromechanical technician and science technician. There are no further occupational specialties for this MOIScript.

In addition to learning about these specialties, you may also find it helpful to explore the following MOIScripts:

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WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

Most Laser Technicians work under the supervision of a group leader or supervisor or engineering personnel. They may work alone or with other laser technicians, depending on the particular work to be done.

Laser Technicians usually work indoors in workshops or laboratories. They might also work in factories or other facilities where lasers are used and must be serviced. Laser Technicians may be exposed to electric shocks, burns, and other hazards. Basic laser and electrical safety practices offset most of these hazards. Their jobs require only light physical demands.

Laser Technicians generally work a 5-day, 40-hour week. They might also work overtime to complete a project or repair a laser. Some Technicians must travel to serve customers, and they might have to travel abroad.

You Should Prefer:

·         Working with your hands to make or repair things

·         Activities involving machines, processes, or techniques

·         Activities of a scientific and technical nature

Should Be Able To:

·         Use reason and logical step-by-step procedures

·         Know the meanings/relationships of words and use language effectively

·         Perform mathematical operations quickly and accurately

·         Visualize how flat drawings or diagrams would look as solid objects

·         Perceive details in objects or drawings

·         Recognize slight differences in shapes, shadings, or measurements

·         Work within precise standards of accuracy

·         Make decisions using your own judgment and verifiable data

·         Perform a variety of duties which may change often

Math Problem You Should Be Able To Solve:

A person uses a converging lens with a focal length of 12 centimeters to examine the fine detail on a painting. What is the magnification given by the lens?

Reading Example You Should Be Able to Read and Comprehend:

Although some optical instruments are extremely complex, they can generally be understood in terms of their basic components, usually mirrors and lenses. Without these reflective and refractive elements, our visual investigations would be severely limited.

Writing Example You Should Be Able to Produce:

Document your research on a given laser that is used to correct farsightedness.

Thinking Skill You Should Be Able to Demonstrate:

The laser in a compact disc player is malfunctioning. You have to decide what is causing the problem so you can prevent it.

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EDUCATION AND PREPARATION OPPORTUNITIES

NOTE: On-The-Job Training provided by the employer or a Certificate (program of up to one year of study beyond High School) or an Associate Degree (two years of study beyond High School) may qualify a person for this occupation.

The following education and preparation opportunities are helpful in preparing for occupations in the MOIScript:

***SCHOOL SUBJECTS***

0700 CAREERS , 0900 COMMUNICATIONS , 1000 COMPUTERS , 1200 ELECTRONICS , 2200 MATH , 2900 SCIENCE , 3200 TECHNICAL DRAWING , 3300 TECHNOLOGY

***VOCATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS***

There are no Vocational Education Programs related to this MOIScript

***POSTSECONDARY PROGRAMS***

052 ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS TECHNOLOGY

Programs in Electrical and Electronics Technology provide opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills necessary for employment servicing electrical and electronics systems, appliances, and motors. Individuals who teach Electrical and Electronics Technology at the secondary school level must have a Michigan Teaching Certificate.

Courses within this program will vary but may include:

217 LASER TECHNOLOGY

Programs in Laser Technology provide opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills necessary for employment in laboratories, industry, and research and development.

Courses vary from school to school but may include:

               Search for a College and/or Instructional Program  

***APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES***

There are no Apprenticeships related to this MOIScript

***MILITARY TRAINING PROGRAMS***

There are no Military Programs related to this MOIScript

E-Learning Courses and Programs

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OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXPERIENCE AND METHODS OF ENTRY

There is relatively little opportunity for high school students to gain direct experience in this job. Classes or hobbies in electronics provide a helpful background in working with electronic circuits and using test equipment. Courses in photography, holography, and physics are helpful in understanding light and electromagnetics. Postsecondary programs in electrical and electronics technology or laser technology may offer co-op or internship opportunities for practical experience.

The most common method of entering this occupation is by applying directly to employers. Assistance may be available from school placement offices or a local office of Michigan Works!. Related trade journals, such as "Laser Focus", frequently list employment opportunities for Laser Technicians. The military services employ personnel, officers and enlisted, who specialize in laser applications. In addition, you should access and search the Internet's on-line employment services sites such as:

OPTICSNET Employment & Career Services    ( http://www.osa.org/careers/careercenters/default.aspx )

                Michigan Talent Bank

                America's Job Bank

JobOptions

                You should also enter an electronic resume on these on-line services.

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EARNINGS AND ADVANCEMENT

Earnings of Laser Technicians vary according to the individual's education, experience, and skill; the type of employer; and the extent of unionization. Salaries are highest in the manufacturing industry.

Nationally, annual salary offers made to beginning Laser Technicians ranged from $25,000 to $35,000 in mid 1998. Technicians with at least five years of experience average about $40,000 a year. Those in advanced supervisory positions, sales and service, or private consulting work may earn between $60,000-$100,000 per year (1998).

In Michigan , starting salaries paid to inexperienced Laser Technicians ranged from $25,000 to $30,000 per year (mid 1998). Experienced Technicians earned from $35,000 to $50,000 or more per year. Overtime for these Technicians is 1 1/2 the normal rate of pay. Also, a premium is paid for late shift work.

Most Laser Technicians receive paid vacations and holidays; life, accident, disability, and hospitalization insurance; and a retirement plan. Some employers may offer stock purchase/savings plans or provide other part-ownership incentives for salaried employees. These benefits are usually paid for, at least in part, by the employer.

Advancement of Laser Technicians is usually based on their ability and training, number of job openings, their experience, and seniority. Employers usually hire individuals who have a background in electronics from a community college or the military service to fill Laser Technicians positions. Some Technicians advance to supervisory positions.

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EMPLOYMENT AND OUTLOOK

Since Laser Technician is a new and emerging occupation, the exact number employed nationally is not available. However, employment is expected to increase as more lasers are used in basic research, industry, communications, construction, medicine and dentistry, computers, energy, defense, and space systems. The present demand for Laser Technicians is high. Employers in many regions have unfilled jobs for Laser Technicians and project a need for more Laser Technicians through the year 2006. Approximately 80% of all Laser Technicians are employed in California , Florida , Massachusetts , and New Mexico . Approximately two-thirds of laser-trained personnel work in the aerospace industry for corporations and the military.

Laser Technician is a relatively new occupation in Michigan . Most were employed in the electronics industry by companies that manufacture and sell lasers or service them in the field. Others work in education, construction, communication, medicine, and other fields.

Employment of Laser Technicians in Michigan is expected to increase through the year 2005. Increased use of lasers in manufacturing, communication, research, construction, medicine, and the military will provide a growing need for more Laser Technicians. Employment growth will continue as more ways of using lasers are discovered.

Opportunities for individuals entering this field should be favorable as the variety of options for Laser Technicians is good. Skills are easily transferable so that, if one industry falls on hard times, good Laser Technicians can turn to other industries. Opportunities are best for persons with specialized training and experience in laser technology. Graduates of associate degree programs in electronics technology with a working knowledge of mechanics and optics, should also have employment opportunities.

MICHIGAN 'S EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK TO 2005

SOURCES OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Printed Occupational information is available upon written request from sources below.

MOISCRIPTS are Copyright 2003, Michigan Department of Career Development