Design, develop, or supervise the production of materials, devices, or systems of unique molecular or macromolecular composition, applying principles of nanoscale physics and electrical, chemical, or biological engineering.
SOC: 17-2199.09
Common Job Titles
Process Development Engineer
Research Engineer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeSynthesize nanoscale materials and devices with unique molecular compositions applying principles of nanoscale physics, chemistry, and engineering across interdisciplinary projects.
Advanced
KnowledgeAnalyze experimental data from atomic force microscopes, scanning electron microscopes, and spectroscopy systems to characterize material properties and optimize nanosystem performance.
Advanced
KnowledgeDesign nanofabrication processes using lithography, deposition, and etching techniques leveraging CAD software and simulation tools to meet specifications.
Advanced
KnowledgeFormulate computational models of nanoscale phenomena using molecular dynamics simulators, finite element analysis, and quantum chemistry software.
Advanced
KnowledgeDevise innovative solutions to manufacturing challenges in nanoscale systems leveraging creative thinking and emerging technologies to advance product development.
Advanced
KnowledgeEvaluate system performance and compliance with engineering specifications using critical thinking and quality control analysis in laboratory and production settings.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate advanced nanofabrication equipment including chemical vapor deposition systems, electron beam lithography, and molecular beam epitaxy systems following established protocols to produce nanoscale structures.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform material characterization using transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, and ellipsometry to validate nanoscale properties with precision.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate interdisciplinary perspectives from physics, chemistry, biology, and electrical engineering when collaborating with research teams to solve complex nanosystem challenges.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret scientific literature and technical specifications to inform design decisions and communicate findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate safety protocols and regulatory compliance in nanotechnology laboratories while supervising production processes and training team members.
Proficient
Hands-onCoordinate fabrication workflows including deposition, patterning, etching, and metrology steps to ensure efficient production of nanoscale devices under time constraints.
Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Nanosystems Engineers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
150,750
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $62,840. 25th percentile: U.S. $85,750. 50th percentile: U.S. $117,750. 75th percentile: U.S. $152,670. 90th percentile: U.S. $183,510. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$62,840
10% of workers earn the following or more
$183,510
Workers on average earn
$121,720
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Engineering and Technology4.6/5
Physics4.6/5
Chemistry4.3/5
Mathematics4.1/5
Computers and Electronics3.8/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
