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  1. Occupations
  2. Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians

Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians

Implement production processes and operate commercial-scale production equipment to produce, test, or modify materials, devices, or systems of unique molecular or macromolecular composition. Operate advanced microscopy equipment to manipulate nanoscale objects. Work under the supervision of nanoengineering staff.

SOC: 17-3026.01

Common Job Titles

  • Engineering Technician
  • Nanofabrication Specialist
  • Research Associate
  • Research Scientist

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • Hands-onOperate advanced microscopy equipment including atomic force microscopes, scanning electron microscopes, and transmission electron microscopes to manipulate and characterize nanoscale materials under supervision of nanoengineering staff.
    Proficient
  • Hands-onPerform commercial-scale production processes using chemical vapor deposition, plasma etchers, and ion implanters following established protocols in cleanroom environments to produce nanoscale devices and systems.
    Proficient
  • KnowledgeAnalyze spectroscopic data, ellipsometry measurements, and particle characterization results using image analysis software and parametric analyzers to verify materials composition and properties.
    Proficient
  • KnowledgeEvaluate production equipment performance and process parameters through continuous monitoring and quality control analysis to ensure compliance with nanofabrication standards.
    Proficient
  • KnowledgeApply engineering and chemistry principles to modify nanomaterial synthesis procedures when troubleshooting process deviations or implementing equipment adjustments.
    Proficient
  • KnowledgeInterpret technical documentation, standard operating procedures, and equipment specifications to train colleagues and communicate process requirements across interdisciplinary teams.
    Proficient
  • MindsetIntegrate safety protocols with production workflow including chemical handling and cleanroom gowning procedures when working with hazardous materials and specialized protective equipment in laboratory settings.
    Proficient
  • KnowledgeAnalyze electron microscopy images and surface characterization data to identify defects, verify dimensional tolerances, and document nanoscale features.
    Proficient
  • Hands-onExecute thin film deposition, etching, and lithography processes using cleanroom-grade tools to fabricate nanoscale patterns with sub-micron precision.
    Proficient
  • Hands-onCalibrate vacuum systems, pressure gauges, and deposition equipment using capacitance manometers and ion gauges to maintain optimal operating conditions.
    Developing
  • KnowledgeExplain complex nanofabrication processes and equipment functions to supervisors, peers, and external stakeholders through written reports and oral presentations.
    Developing
  • MindsetEngage in continuous learning of emerging nanotechnology methods and instrumentation to maintain technical proficiency in rapidly evolving field applications.
    Developing

Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

73,410

Wage Distribution by Percentile

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $46,370. 25th percentile: U.S. $53,230. 50th percentile: U.S. $64,790. 75th percentile: U.S. $79,040. 90th percentile: U.S. $97,670. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$46,370
10% of workers earn the following or more$97,670
Workers on average earn$69,780

+ 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 Technology4.3/5
  • Chemistry4.1/5
  • Physics3.7/5
  • Computers and Electronics3.7/5
  • Mathematics3.6/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • Microsoft Access
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Windows
  • Microsoft Word

Technology Skills

  • Computer aided design CAD software
  • Image analysis software
  • Optical imaging systems
  • SPMLab
  • Simulation software

Tools & Equipment

  • Atomic force microscopes AFM
  • Atomic layer deposition ALD systems
  • Auger electron microscopes
  • Bake ovens
  • Bourdon tube gauges
  • Capacitance manometers
  • Capacitively coupled plasma CCP reactors
  • Chemical aprons
Tools & Technology: Tools & Equipment

Related Occupations

Occupations with similar skills and knowledge requirements

Most Similar

  • Nanosystems Engineers 17-2199.09
  • Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians 17-3026.00
  • Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians 17-3027.00
  • Calibration Technologists and Technicians 17-3028.00
  • Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians 17-3021.00

Moderately Similar

  • Chemists 19-2031.00
  • Chemical Technicians 19-4031.00
  • Robotics Technicians 17-3024.01
  • Chemical Engineers 17-2041.00
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians 17-3023.00

Related

  • Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers 17-2031.00
  • Histotechnologists 29-2011.04
  • Industrial Engineers 17-2112.00
  • Materials Scientists 19-2032.00
  • Materials Engineers 17-2131.00
  • Microsystems Engineers 17-2199.06
  • Photonics Technicians 17-3029.08
  • Robotics Engineers 17-2199.08
  • Mechatronics Engineers 17-2199.05
  • Medical Equipment Repairers 49-9062.00

Related Programs

Education programs that prepare you for this occupation

  • Bachelor's DegreeApplied Manufacturing Engineering - Automation and RoboticsIssuer: Jacksonville State University
  • Master's DegreeEngineering Management — MEMIssuer: Auburn University
  • DiplomaAdvanced Manufacturing Production TechnologyIssuer: Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Murfreesboro
  • DiplomaAdvanced Manufacturing Production Technology - DeIssuer: Tennessee College of Applied Technology-McKenzie
  • DiplomaAdvanced Manufacturing Production TechnologyIssuer: Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Jackson
  • DiplomaAdvanced Manufacturing Production Technology - DeIssuer: Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Dickson
  • DiplomaAdvanced Manufacturing Production TechnologyIssuer: Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Crump
  • CertificateElectric Vehicle Production TechnologyIssuer: Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Crump
  • DiplomaAdvanced Manufacturing EducationIssuer: Chattanooga State Community College
  • CertificateCertificate of Recognition - Industrial Trades - HelperIssuer: Olympic College