Also called: Quantum Communications Engineer, Quantum Key Distribution Engineer
Builds networks that send fragile quantum states of light between distant quantum computers or sensors.
You align lasers and single-photon detectors on an optical table, then test whether entangled photons survive a trip through miles of fiber. Some days are spent writing control software; others in a van checking a test link across a city.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Doctorate (PhD), about 8 years after high school. PhD or master's in physics, optics or electrical engineering.
Ways in: 4-year college, Graduate school. Training cost: $15k – $60k.
Majors to look at: Physics, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering.
Growing much faster than average. A brand-new field funded by the National Quantum Initiative and tech companies; BLS does not track it.
Low risk for 10 years. Aligning photon detectors and testing quantum links across cities is hands-on frontier work.
Classes: AP Physics C, AP Calculus BC, AP Computer Science.
Official data: O*NET occupation 17-2199.
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