How The Strong Interest Inventory Relates to a Career as a Nanotechnology Engineering Technologist and Technician

Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians fit into the Strong Interest Inventory Assessment Realistic Theme Code as they work in a hands-on and practical environment, applying scientific and technical knowledge to design, build, and maintain equipment and systems. They must be able to diagnose and resolve issues when they occur since they oversee and ensure that the systems and equipment they use are operating effectively and properly. These specialists advance the area of nanotechnology by creating and enhancing the machinery and systems that are employed in the creation of nanoscale materials and devices. They mostly operate in a range of sectors, most of which work in manufacturing, healthcare, and electronics. Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians need a solid grasp of scientific and engineering concepts as well as a knack for handling intricate machinery and systems in order to succeed in this position. To be successful in this role, Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians must be skilled in understanding science and engineering principles, and they should be well adept at working with complex equipment and systems.

What Does a Nanotechnology Engineering Technologist and Technician Do?

Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians can work in several areas within the field of nanotechnology, such as materials science, fabrication techniques, and instrumentation. For instance, some may be more focused on the development of new materials, while others may work on the improvement of existing products or technologies. Some may specialize in the fabrication of nanoscale structures, while others may specialize in testing and analysis. Additionally, Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians should be comfortable working with scientists and engineering when conducting research, experiments, or even by just analyzing data. Aside from designing new nanomaterials and devices, they are also specialized in understanding the properties and behavior of nanomaterials using specialized tools and types of equipment.

A Nanotechnology Engineering Technologist and Technician Day-to-Day Tasks and Tools

Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians work with a variety of tools, technologies, services, and machinery in order to fulfill their responsibilities. They use specialized equipment, such as electron microscopes, to examine and manipulate nanoscale materials and devices, and they use computer software to design and simulate these materials and devices. Additionally, these professionals use various fabrication and characterization techniques, such as lithography and spectroscopy, to create and analyze nanoscale materials and devices. They also use laboratory equipment, such as centrifuges and pipettes, to perform experiments and tests. They also use test and measurement equipment, such as oscilloscopes and multimeters, to ensure that equipment and systems function properly.

As stated by The Department of Labor, The Following Work Tasks are Most Often Completed by Nanotechnology Engineering Technologist and Technicians:

  • Operate precision equipment to control microscopic or nanoscopic processes.
  • Maintain clean work areas.
  • Measure physical or chemical properties of materials or objects.
  • Research engineering applications of emerging technologies.
  • Maintain test equipment.
  • Prepare materials for processing.
  • Monitor processes for compliance with standards.
  • Calibrate scientific or technical equipment.
  • Monitor activities affecting environmental quality.
  • Prepare contracts, disclosures, or applications.
  • Investigate the environmental impact of projects.
  • Devise research or testing protocols.
  • Implement design or process improvements.
  • Prepare technical reports for internal use.
  • Maintain operational records or records systems.
  • Test performance of electrical, electronic, mechanical, or integrated systems or equipment.
  • Assemble equipment or components.
  • Prepare procedural documents.
  • Document technical design details.

(Retrieved from O’netOnline.org. Nanotechnology Engineering Technologist and Technicians. Career Code: 17-3026.01 Detailed Work Activities)

Core Activities for Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians:

  • Operate nanotechnology compounding, testing, processing, or production equipment by appropriate standard operating procedures, good manufacturing practices, hazardous material restrictions, or health and safety requirements.
  • Maintain a work area according to cleanroom or other processing standards.
  • Produce images or measurements using tools or techniques such as atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy, particle size analysis, or zeta potential analysis.
  • Collaborate with scientists or engineers to design or conduct experiments to develop nanotechnology materials, components, devices, or systems.
  • Repair nanotechnology processing or testing equipment or submit work orders for equipment repair.
  • Measure or mix chemicals or compounds by detailed instructions or formulas.
  • Monitor equipment during operation to ensure adherence to specifications for characteristics such as pressure, temperature, or flow.
  • Collect or compile nanotechnology research or engineering data.
  • Calibrate nanotechnology equipment, such as weighing, testing, or production equipment.
  • Monitor hazardous waste cleanup procedures to ensure proper application of nanocomposites or accomplish objectives.
  • Contribute written material or data for grant or patent applications.
  • Inspect or measure thin films of carbon nanotubes, polymers, or inorganic coatings, using a variety of techniques or analytical tools.

(Retrieved from O’netOnline.org. Nanotechnology Engineering Technologist and Technicians. Career Code: 17-3026.01 Tasks- Category-Core)

Experience and Education

The educational and training requirements for Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians typically include a post-secondary education in nanotechnology, engineering technology, or a related field. These degrees can be obtained from community colleges, technical schools, or four-year universities. They typically take two to four years to complete, depending on the program and the student’s enrollment status. During their studies, students take courses in subjects such as materials science, electronics, and computer-aided design, and they may also complete laboratory projects and hands-on training to develop their technical skills. Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians may have certifications from industry organizations, such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET). These certifications demonstrate a level of expertise and proficiency in the field and can help individuals stand out in a competitive job market.

Salary and Wages

The salary expectations for Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians can vary depending on several factors, including location, experience, and education. On average, they can earn an annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $80,000, with the potential for higher earnings for those with advanced degrees or certifications.

The highest paying employers and sectors for Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians can vary, but some of the industries that offer high salaries for these professionals include Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing, Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences, Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing, and Government agencies.

Nanotechnology Engineering Technologist and Technician

This article provides information about the Strong Interest Inventory Nanotechnology Engineering Technologist and Technician Careers.

Below are some employment trends for Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians:

  •     Median Salary: $28.95 hourly, $60,220 annually
  •     Employment: 64,200 employees
  •     Projected growth (2018-2028): Slower than average (2% to 3%)
  •     Projected job openings (2018-2028): 6,600
[Information retrieved from Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data and 2018-2028 employment projections]

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References

  1. Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data and 2012-2022 employment projections Onetonline.org