JOB REPORT / 17-2199 · 179 TASKS

Engineers, All Other.

Can AI do the work of Engineers, All Others?

Mostly it works alongside you. Here is what shifts, task by task.

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The parts of your job AI can already do most of:

Prepare energy-related project reports or related documentation
Write reports or proposals related to photonics research…
Create checklists for review or inspection of completed solar…

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A guided certificate program in AI-assisted Engineers, All Other work. It covers the 173 AI-affected parts of your job and ends in a capstone a person reviews.

WHAT WE LOOKED AT

Your job, task by task.

173 of 179 tasks reviewed

This job has 179 core tasks. We went through 173 of them, one at a time.

Task by task, from the work Engineers, All Others actually do. How we describe AI use in each task is our own read of it, not a measurement of whether AI can replace the job.

TASK 01
Prepare energy-related project reports or related documentation.
AI DOES
Drafts report sections, summarizes data, formats tables, and suggests standard language
YOU DO
Verify technical conclusions and take professional responsibility for the findings
TASK 02
Write reports or proposals related to photonics research or development projects.
AI DOES
Drafts sections, suggests structure, fixes grammar, and summarizes technical concepts
YOU DO
Supply original data, make design decisions, and vouch for technical accuracy
TASK 03
Create checklists for review or inspection of completed solar installation projects.
AI DOES
Drafts structured inspection checklists covering wiring, mounting, inverters, safety labels, and code references
YOU DO
Tailor each checklist to the exact site conditions, local jurisdiction rules, and lessons learned from past jobs
TASK 04
Research renewable or alternative energy systems or technologies, such as solar thermal or photovoltaic energy.
AI DOES
Summarizes research papers, finds trends, and compares energy system specs quickly
YOU DO
Judge which findings fit your project's real constraints and goals
TASK 05
Make system device lists or event timing charts.
AI DOES
Generates draft device lists, timing tables, and formatted charts from requirements or specs
YOU DO
Verify real hardware limits, timing conflicts, and safety-critical interactions
TASK 06
Perform thermal, stress, or cost reduction analyses for solar systems.
AI DOES
Runs simulations, crunches numbers, and flags cost-saving options across design scenarios
YOU DO
Validate assumptions against real site conditions and sign off on engineering decisions
TASK 07
Create plans for solar energy system development, monitoring, and evaluation activities.
AI DOES
Generates plan drafts, organizes monitoring schedules, and summarizes evaluation frameworks
YOU DO
Apply site-specific knowledge and engineering judgment to finalize safe, code-compliant plans
TASK 08
Create electrical single-line diagrams, panel schedules, or connection diagrams for solar electric systems, using computer-aided design (CAD) software.
AI DOES
Drafts standard diagram templates, suggests component placements, and checks common wiring configurations
YOU DO
Verify site conditions, apply local electrical codes, and sign off on safety-critical design choices
TASK 09
Perform computer simulation of solar photovoltaic (PV) generation system performance or energy production to optimize efficiency.
AI DOES
Runs simulation models, tests many design scenarios quickly, and flags which configurations produce the most energy
YOU DO
Judge which site conditions and trade-offs matter most, then turn simulation results into a real working design
TASK 10
Process or interpret signals or sensor data.
AI DOES
Filters noise, detects anomalies, and classifies signal patterns in real time
YOU DO
Judge whether signal behavior reflects a real robot problem or a faulty sensor
TASK 11
Create or maintain wind farm layouts, schematics, or other visual documentation for wind farms.
AI DOES
Generates draft layouts, suggests turbine spacing, and auto-formats schematic documentation
YOU DO
Apply local terrain data, safety codes, and engineering sign-off to every design decision
TASK 12
Develop design specifications and functional requirements for residential, commercial, or industrial solar energy systems or components.
AI DOES
Drafts spec templates, suggests component options, and checks calculations against code references
YOU DO
Visit the site, talk to the client, and sign off on safety-critical design decisions
TASK 13
Develop or file intellectual property and patent disclosure or application documents related to microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices, products, or systems.
AI DOES
Drafts patent claims, searches prior art databases, and formats disclosure documents
YOU DO
Define what makes the MEMS invention truly novel and defend it to patent examiners
TASK 14
Review architectural, mechanical, or electrical plans or specifications to evaluate energy efficiency.
AI DOES
Scans plans and specs to highlight potential energy inefficiencies and compare them against standards
YOU DO
Apply engineering judgment to weigh cost, safety, site context, and design intent
TASK 15
Maintain technical project files.
AI DOES
Drafts summaries, organizes documents, flags missing files, and formats records
YOU DO
Verify technical details and decide which information is accurate and complete
TASK 16
Create models to optimize the layout of wind farm access roads, crane pads, crane paths, collection systems, substations, switchyards, or transmission lines.
AI DOES
Generates layout options from terrain and GIS data, runs optimization algorithms, and flags conflicts between roads, cables, and equipment pads
YOU DO
Apply site knowledge, local regulations, environmental limits, and construction feasibility that no model fully captures
TASK 17
Create embedded software design programs.
AI DOES
Generates boilerplate code, suggests logic patterns, and flags common bugs
YOU DO
Verify hardware behavior, test on real devices, and own safety decisions
TASK 18
Design or develop automated control systems for environmental applications, such as waste processing, air quality, or water quality systems.
AI DOES
Drafts control system logic, suggests components, writes simulation code, and summarizes environmental regulations
YOU DO
Validate safety, test physical systems, and adapt designs to real site conditions
TASK 19
Design or engineer nanomaterials, nanodevices, nano-enabled products, or nanosystems, using three-dimensional computer-aided design (CAD) software.
AI DOES
Suggests material structures, checks design rules, and speeds up simulation setup in CAD workflows
YOU DO
Apply deep physics knowledge and creative problem-solving to invent truly new nanostructures
TASK 20
Create or maintain photonic design histories.
AI DOES
Drafts version logs, summarizes design changes, formats documentation, and flags missing entries
YOU DO
Verify technical details and decide which design decisions are worth recording
TASK 21
Develop customer documentation, such as performance specifications, training manuals, or operating instructions.
AI DOES
Drafts sections, suggests structure, formats tables, and checks grammar in technical documents
YOU DO
Verify every spec and safety detail with real engineering knowledge
TASK 22
Write reports to document wind farm collector system test results.
AI DOES
Drafts report sections, organizes test data into tables, and suggests standard language for technical findings
YOU DO
Verify every number, judge what anomalies mean, and take professional responsibility for the final report
TASK 23
Automate assays on laboratory robotics.
AI DOES
Drafts automation scripts, suggests protocol steps, and flags logic errors in assay workflows
YOU DO
Keep physical setup, calibration, and real-world troubleshooting in human hands
TASK 24
Identify and recommend energy savings strategies to achieve more energy-efficient operation.
AI DOES
Scans energy data, flags inefficiencies, summarizes proven strategies, and drafts recommendations
YOU DO
Walk the site, weigh real constraints, and tailor advice to the specific building and people
TASK 25
Design or coordinate design of photovoltaic (PV) or solar thermal systems, including system components, for residential and commercial buildings.
AI DOES
Generates system layouts, runs energy simulations, and drafts component specs
YOU DO
Verify site conditions, apply local codes, and take engineering responsibility for the final design
TASK 26
Advise clients or colleagues on topics such as climate control systems, energy modeling, data logging, sustainable design, or energy auditing.
AI DOES
Drafts energy reports, summarizes audit data, and explains technical concepts clearly
YOU DO
Read the room, weigh site-specific tradeoffs, and build client trust through real conversation
TASK 27
Identify materials appropriate for mechatronic system designs.
AI DOES
Searches material databases, compares properties like strength, conductivity, and weight, and generates shortlists with trade-off summaries
YOU DO
Apply hands-on experience with how materials actually behave in physical builds and sign off on safety-critical choices
TASK 28
Develop standard operation procedures and quality or safety standards for solar installation work.
AI DOES
Drafts procedure templates, summarizes safety codes, and flags common hazards
YOU DO
Apply site-specific judgment and sign off on safety accountability
TASK 29
Conduct research into the feasibility, design, operation, or performance of robotic mechanisms, components, or systems, such as planetary rovers, multiple mobile robots, reconfigurable robots, or man-machine interactions.
AI DOES
Searches research papers, summarizes findings, generates design options, and runs simulation comparisons
YOU DO
Test physical prototypes, judge real-world trade-offs, and make creative leaps that no paper covers yet
TASK 30
Document photonics system or component design processes, including objectives, issues, or outcomes.
AI DOES
Drafts structured documentation, suggests technical writing formats, and summarizes design notes into clear reports
YOU DO
Supply the actual design choices, measurements, and lessons learned from hands-on lab work
TASK 31
Design automated robotic systems to increase production volume or precision in high-throughput operations, such as automated ribonucleic acid (RNA) analysis or sorting, moving, or stacking production materials.
AI DOES
Generates design drafts, runs simulations, and flags performance issues in robotic system models
YOU DO
Validate real-world physics, safety constraints, and custom integration decisions that no simulation fully captures
TASK 32
Plan or schedule engineering research or development projects involving microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology.
AI DOES
Drafts project timelines, summarizes research literature, and suggests task breakdowns
YOU DO
Apply hands-on lab knowledge and team dynamics to make realistic, safe project calls
TASK 33
Communicate operating characteristics or performance experience to other engineers or designers for training or new product development purposes.
AI DOES
Drafts technical reports, summarizes data, and formats training materials from notes or data you provide
YOU DO
Share the hard-won lab experience and context that only comes from running the systems yourself
TASK 34
Recommend best fuel for specific sites or circumstances.
AI DOES
Compares fuel types by cost, emissions, and availability using site data
YOU DO
Verify local constraints and take responsibility for the final recommendation
TASK 35
Design robotics applications for manufacturers of green products, such as wind turbines or solar panels, to increase production time, eliminate waste, or reduce costs.
AI DOES
Generates design drafts, simulates robot movements, flags waste in production flows, and searches technical literature
YOU DO
Validate physical designs against real factory conditions and make safety and trade-off calls
TASK 36
Design nano-based manufacturing processes to minimize water, chemical, or energy use, as well as to reduce waste production.
AI DOES
Searches research databases, runs simulations, models energy and waste tradeoffs, and flags optimization opportunities
YOU DO
Apply physical intuition and make final design calls that balance safety, cost, and real-world constraints
TASK 37
Analyze operation of wind farms or wind farm components to determine reliability, performance, and compliance with specifications.
AI DOES
Scans turbine sensor streams, spots performance drops, and flags compliance gaps automatically
YOU DO
Interpret why a turbine underperforms on-site and decide the right fix
TASK 38
Create mechanical design documents for parts, assemblies, or finished products.
AI DOES
Drafts document structure, fills standard sections, checks formatting, and flags missing specs
YOU DO
Apply real-world physical knowledge and sign off on safety-critical specs
TASK 39
Monitor energy related design or construction issues, such as energy engineering, energy management, or sustainable design.
AI DOES
Scans reports and sensor data to spot energy use patterns or flag potential design problems early
YOU DO
Walk the site, apply engineering judgment, and make calls on safety-critical or ambiguous issues
TASK 40
Review or approve designs, calculations, or cost estimates.
AI DOES
Checks calculations, spots inconsistencies, and summarizes cost estimates for faster review
YOU DO
Own the final sign-off and apply real-world engineering judgment
TASK 41
Conduct research related to a range of nanotechnology topics, such as packaging, heat transfer, fluorescence detection, nanoparticle dispersion, hybrid systems, liquid systems, nanocomposites, nanofabrication, optoelectronics, or nanolithography.
AI DOES
Searches papers, summarizes research, spots patterns in data, and drafts literature reviews across nanotechnology topics
YOU DO
Design experiments, operate lab instruments, interpret novel results, and make judgment calls about unexplored directions
TASK 42
Verify energy bills and meter readings.
AI DOES
Scans bills and meter data, spots mismatches, and flags outliers instantly
YOU DO
Decide whether flagged anomalies signal real equipment or billing issues
TASK 43
Review specifications and recommend engineering or manufacturing changes to achieve solar design objectives.
AI DOES
Scans spec documents, flags mismatches, suggests common fixes, and summarizes options
YOU DO
Weigh site-specific tradeoffs and sign off on changes that affect safety and performance
TASK 44
Create back-ups of robot programs or parameters.
AI DOES
Writes backup scripts, schedules automated file exports, and checks version logs
YOU DO
Confirm robot state and validate that backups are complete and correct
TASK 45
Perform energy modeling, measurement, verification, commissioning, or retro-commissioning.
AI DOES
Runs energy models, processes sensor data, and flags anomalies in building performance
YOU DO
Visit sites, verify equipment behavior in person, and sign off on safety and compliance
TASK 46
Read current literature, talk with colleagues, continue education, or participate in professional organizations or conferences to keep abreast of developments in the field.
AI DOES
Summarizes recent papers, flags new research trends, and drafts conference notes
YOU DO
Build real relationships and judge which ideas truly matter for your work
TASK 47
Conduct research on robotic technology to create new robotic systems or system capabilities.
AI DOES
Searches literature, summarizes papers, drafts design ideas, and suggests algorithms
YOU DO
Evaluate real-world constraints, run physical tests, and make creative engineering calls
TASK 48
Recommend process or infrastructure changes to improve wind turbine performance, reduce operational costs, or comply with regulations.
AI DOES
Scans turbine data, flags performance gaps, summarizes regulatory requirements, and drafts change proposals
YOU DO
Weigh site-specific tradeoffs, validate safety risks, and own the final engineering recommendation
TASK 49
Determine applications of photonics appropriate to meet product objectives or features.
AI DOES
Searches photonics knowledge bases, surfaces candidate technologies, and maps specs to known solutions
YOU DO
Weigh real-world tradeoffs like cost, manufacturability, and fit to your unique product context
TASK 50
Investigate experimental wind turbines or wind turbine technologies for properties such as aerodynamics, production, noise, and load.
AI DOES
Runs aerodynamic simulations, analyzes sensor data, spots patterns in noise and load measurements, and summarizes research literature
YOU DO
Design the test plan, interpret real-world anomalies, and make safety calls in the field
TASK 51
Review or negotiate energy purchase agreements.
AI DOES
Summarizes contract clauses, flags risks, and drafts redline edits
YOU DO
Own the negotiation table and make final calls on terms
TASK 52
Publish engineering reports documenting design details or qualification test results.
AI DOES
Drafts report sections, formats data tables, and suggests technical language
YOU DO
Verify every number, own the conclusions, and sign off on accuracy
TASK 53
Design or program robotics systems for environmental clean-up applications to minimize human exposure to toxic or hazardous materials or to improve the quality or speed of clean-up operations.
AI DOES
Generates code drafts, simulates robot paths, and searches technical literature for similar clean-up systems
YOU DO
Test physical prototypes in real hazardous conditions and make final safety and design trade-off calls
TASK 54
Design advanced electronic control systems for mechanical systems.
AI DOES
Drafts control algorithms, suggests component options, and runs simulations
YOU DO
Validate real-world performance, catch safety risks, and adapt designs to physical constraints
TASK 55
Determine the feasibility, costs, or performance benefits of new mechatronic equipment.
AI DOES
Searches specs, builds cost tables, and drafts feasibility summaries from technical documents
YOU DO
Apply hands-on system knowledge and site context to make the final call
TASK 56
Design, develop, or implement control circuits or algorithms for electromechanical or pneumatic devices or systems.
AI DOES
Generates starter code, suggests PID tuning approaches, and flags logic errors in control algorithms
YOU DO
Test on real hardware, validate safety, and adapt designs when physical behavior surprises you
TASK 57
Identify new applications for existing nanotechnologies.
AI DOES
Scans literature, spots cross-industry patterns, and drafts lists of possible new uses
YOU DO
Judge real-world feasibility and prioritize ideas that match safety, cost, and market needs
TASK 58
Design underground or overhead wind farm collector systems.
AI DOES
Suggests cable routes, sizes conductors, runs load-flow calculations, and flags design conflicts
YOU DO
Apply site knowledge, safety judgment, and engineering sign-off that real projects legally require
TASK 59
Prepare nanotechnology-related invention disclosures or patent applications.
AI DOES
Drafts patent sections, suggests claim language, and finds prior art
YOU DO
Verify the invention's true novelty and sign off on technical accuracy
TASK 60
Design or redesign optical fibers to minimize energy loss.
AI DOES
Runs optical simulations, flags high-loss design patterns, and suggests material or geometry tweaks
YOU DO
Weigh physical tradeoffs, apply domain intuition, and sign off on final design choices
TASK 61
Evaluate materials, fabrication methods, joining methods, surface treatments, or packaging to ensure acceptable processing, performance, cost, sustainability, or availability.
AI DOES
Searches material databases, summarizes fabrication tradeoffs, and drafts comparison tables for cost, performance, and sustainability criteria
YOU DO
Test real samples, judge process compatibility in your specific fab environment, and own the final decision
TASK 62
Design nanoparticle catalysts to detect or remove chemical or other pollutants from water, soil, or air.
AI DOES
Searches research databases, suggests candidate nanoparticle structures, and runs simulations of how particles might bind to pollutants
YOU DO
Validate designs in the lab, judge real-world safety and scale-up, and adapt when experiments surprise you
TASK 63
Conduct analyses addressing issues such as failure, reliability, or yield improvement.
AI DOES
Scans large datasets for failure patterns, generates statistical summaries, and flags anomalies in yield or reliability data
YOU DO
Apply deep physical understanding of microdevices to diagnose root causes and design targeted fixes
TASK 64
Create mechanical models to simulate mechatronic design concepts.
AI DOES
Suggests design parameters, generates simulation code, and flags potential errors in model setups
YOU DO
Apply physical intuition and validate that simulated behavior matches real-world mechatronic constraints
TASK 65
Validate fabrication processes for microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), using statistical process control implementation, virtual process simulations, data mining, or life testing.
AI DOES
Runs statistical analysis, flags process drift, and speeds up simulation modeling
YOU DO
Interpret edge cases, trust your physical intuition, and own the final validation call
TASK 66
Develop active control algorithms, electronics, software, electromechanical, or electrohydraulic systems for wind turbines.
AI DOES
Drafts control algorithm code, runs simulations, flags design issues, and searches technical literature
YOU DO
Test real hardware, ensure safety compliance, and make final engineering calls
TASK 67
Design photonics products, such as light sources, displays, or photovoltaics, to achieve increased energy efficiency.
AI DOES
Searches research papers, suggests optical materials, and runs simulation models to test design ideas
YOU DO
Make creative engineering tradeoffs and verify that physical prototypes actually work
TASK 68
Develop or validate product-specific test protocols, acceptance thresholds, or inspection tools for quality control testing or performance measurement.
AI DOES
Drafts protocol templates, suggests acceptance thresholds from literature, and flags data outliers
YOU DO
Test on real devices and sign off on safety-critical limits
TASK 69
Perform root cause analysis on wind turbine tower component failures.
AI DOES
Scans failure logs, sensor readings, and maintenance records to flag patterns and rank probable causes
YOU DO
Visit the site, inspect physical damage, and apply engineering judgment before signing off on findings
TASK 70
Consult with construction or renovation clients or other engineers on topics such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) or Green Buildings.
AI DOES
Pulls together LEED standards, cost-benefit data, and green building options fast
YOU DO
Read the room, build trust with clients, and weigh tradeoffs for their specific project
TASK 71
Design or develop sensors to reduce the energy or resource requirements to operate appliances, such as washing machines or dishwashing machines.
AI DOES
Searches literature, generates design concepts, runs simulations, and drafts technical specs
YOU DO
Make physical prototypes, test in real appliances, and judge tradeoffs between cost, safety, and performance
TASK 72
Research or develop emerging microelectromechanical (MEMS) systems to convert nontraditional energy sources into power, such as ambient energy harvesters that convert environmental vibrations into usable energy.
AI DOES
Searches and summarizes research papers, drafts simulation parameters, and suggests design approaches for energy harvesting circuits
YOU DO
Run lab experiments, test physical prototypes, and make creative leaps in novel device design
TASK 73
Design sensors or switches that require little or no power to operate for environmental monitoring or industrial metering applications.
AI DOES
Searches research literature, suggests circuit topologies, runs simulation drafts, and flags design trade-offs
YOU DO
Apply physical intuition and test real prototypes to validate that sensors work reliably in the field
TASK 74
Consider environmental issues when proposing product designs involving microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology.
AI DOES
Summarizes environmental regulations, flags hazardous materials, and surfaces eco-friendly alternatives in MEMS design options
YOU DO
Weigh real-world tradeoffs between performance, cost, and environmental impact for each unique product
TASK 75
Conduct energy audits to evaluate energy use and to identify conservation and cost reduction measures.
AI DOES
Analyzes energy usage data, models efficiency scenarios, and drafts audit reports
YOU DO
Walk the site, inspect equipment, and make judgment calls about real conditions
TASK 76
Develop optical or imaging systems, such as optical imaging products, optical components, image processes, signal process technologies, or optical systems.
AI DOES
Runs optical simulations, searches research, drafts design specs, and flags tradeoffs in component choices
YOU DO
Validate physical prototypes, apply deep domain intuition, and make final system design calls
TASK 77
Refine final microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) design to optimize design for target dimensions, physical tolerances, or processing constraints.
AI DOES
Runs simulation sweeps, checks tolerance constraints, and surfaces optimization options across design parameters
YOU DO
Apply hands-on fab experience and physical intuition to make final trade-off calls
TASK 78
Provide engineering technical support to designers of prototype wind turbines.
AI DOES
Searches engineering references, checks calculations, drafts technical memos, and flags potential design conflicts
YOU DO
Apply real-world turbine experience and make judgment calls on novel prototype problems
TASK 79
Design end-of-arm tooling.
AI DOES
Generates concept sketches, suggests materials, and runs stress simulations
YOU DO
Test the physical prototype and make judgment calls on real-world performance
TASK 80
Design or conduct tests of new nanotechnology products, processes, or systems.
AI DOES
Suggests test designs, reviews literature, analyzes results, and flags patterns in experimental data
YOU DO
Run the physical tests, operate specialized lab equipment, and apply expert judgment when results are unexpected
TASK 81
Investigate mechanical failures or unexpected maintenance problems.
AI DOES
Scans logs, flags anomalies, and suggests failure causes from data
YOU DO
Go hands-on with the hardware to confirm what actually broke and why
TASK 82
Evaluate robotic systems or prototypes.
AI DOES
Processes test data, flags anomalies, and runs performance simulations
YOU DO
Physically test prototypes and make judgment calls about real-world behavior
TASK 83
Develop electronic, mechanical, or computerized processes to perform tasks in dangerous situations, such as underwater exploration or extraterrestrial mining.
AI DOES
Searches literature, generates design concepts, runs simulations, and drafts code or specs
YOU DO
Validate safety tradeoffs, test physical prototypes, and make final engineering calls
TASK 84
Monitor or calibrate automated systems, industrial control systems, or system components to maximize efficiency of production.
AI DOES
Reads sensor streams, spots patterns, and suggests calibration adjustments in real time
YOU DO
Physically inspect equipment, trust your senses, and make final calls on complex mechanical issues
TASK 85
Design self-monitoring mechanical systems, such as gear systems that monitor loading or condition of systems to detect and prevent failures.
AI DOES
Suggests sensor placement, models failure patterns, and drafts monitoring algorithms from data
YOU DO
Validate physical constraints and own safety-critical design choices
TASK 86
Develop specifications for wind technology components, such as gearboxes, blades, generators, frequency converters, or pad transformers.
AI DOES
Drafts spec templates, summarizes industry standards, and flags common design tradeoffs for components like blades or gearboxes
YOU DO
Apply site-specific conditions, safety sign-offs, and hands-on engineering judgment to finalize specs
TASK 87
Write or install energy management routines for building automation systems.
AI DOES
Drafts control logic, suggests scheduling routines, and generates code templates for BAS platforms
YOU DO
Physically install hardware, test real building responses, and make safety-critical adjustments on-site
TASK 88
Design nano-enabled products with reduced toxicity, increased durability, or improved energy efficiency.
AI DOES
Searches research databases, predicts material properties, and generates design options using simulation tools
YOU DO
Weigh safety trade-offs, interpret unexpected lab results, and make judgment calls no model has seen before
TASK 89
Design solar energy photonics or other materials or devices to generate energy.
AI DOES
Runs optical simulations, screens material databases, and drafts design specs
YOU DO
Make final design tradeoffs and guide physical testing
TASK 90
Design nanosystems with components such as nanocatalysts or nanofiltration devices to clean specific pollutants from hazardous waste sites.
AI DOES
Searches research databases, models nanoparticle behavior, and suggests material candidates for specific pollutants
YOU DO
Apply site-specific judgment, validate real-world safety, and make novel design decisions no model has seen before
TASK 91
Reengineer nanomaterials to improve biodegradability.
AI DOES
Searches literature, predicts molecular properties, and suggests biodegradable chemical modifications
YOU DO
Run experiments, validate models in the lab, and make design tradeoffs based on real-world results
TASK 92
Design or develop new crystals for photonics applications.
AI DOES
Searches research databases, predicts crystal properties, and suggests material candidates using simulation tools
YOU DO
Run experiments, grow crystals, and judge whether lab results match real-world needs
TASK 93
Design laser machining equipment for purposes such as high-speed ablation.
AI DOES
Suggests design parameters, runs optical simulations, and drafts technical specs
YOU DO
Validate physical prototypes and make safety-critical design tradeoffs
TASK 94
Design or develop vacuum tube collector systems for solar applications.
AI DOES
Runs thermal simulations, suggests component specs, drafts schematics, and checks design standards
YOU DO
Apply site knowledge, make safety calls, and validate designs against real-world conditions
TASK 95
Design or develop industrial air quality microsystems, such as carbon dioxide fixing devices.
AI DOES
Searches literature, suggests materials, drafts schematics, and runs simulations
YOU DO
Test prototypes in the lab and make safety-critical design calls
TASK 96
Create designs or prototypes for nanosystem applications, such as biomedical delivery systems or atomic force microscopes.
AI DOES
Generates initial design concepts, runs simulations, searches literature, and flags potential material conflicts
YOU DO
Apply domain intuition to validate models, make safety tradeoffs, and iterate based on real lab results
TASK 97
Develop processes or identify equipment needed for pilot or commercial nanoscale scale production.
AI DOES
Searches research papers, compares equipment specs, and drafts process outlines
YOU DO
Test physical prototypes and judge what actually works at scale
TASK 98
Develop photonics sensing or manufacturing technologies to improve the efficiency of manufacturing or related processes.
AI DOES
Searches research papers, models photonic systems, and drafts design specs
YOU DO
Build and test physical prototypes in the lab
TASK 99
Apply mechatronic or automated solutions to the transfer of materials, components, or finished goods.
AI DOES
Suggests system designs, generates control code, runs simulations, and reviews sensor layouts
YOU DO
Test physical prototypes, adapt to real-world constraints, and sign off on safety
TASK 100
Train personnel or clients on topics such as energy management.
AI DOES
Drafts training slides, quizzes, and plain-language explanations of energy topics
YOU DO
Lead live sessions, adjust to learner confusion, and build trust with your audience
TASK 101
Direct the implementation of energy management projects.
AI DOES
Drafts project plans, tracks milestones, flags budget issues, and summarizes progress reports
YOU DO
Lead the team, make on-site decisions, and adapt when things go wrong in the field
TASK 102
Develop catalysis or other green chemistry methods to synthesize nanomaterials, such as nanotubes, nanocrystals, nanorods, or nanowires.
AI DOES
Searches research papers, suggests green synthesis routes, predicts reaction outcomes, and helps design experiments on screen
YOU DO
Run the actual reactions, troubleshoot unexpected results, and judge which findings are worth pursuing further
TASK 103
Develop green building nanocoatings, such as self-cleaning, anti-stain, depolluting, anti-fogging, anti-icing, antimicrobial, moisture-resistant, or ultraviolet protectant coatings.
AI DOES
Searches research literature, predicts material properties, and drafts formulation ideas
YOU DO
Run experiments, test real samples, and judge real-world performance
TASK 104
Manage the development, design, or construction of energy conservation projects to ensure acceptability of budgets and time lines, conformance to federal and state laws, or adherence to approved specifications.
AI DOES
Drafts project plans, checks regulatory requirements, summarizes budget reports, and flags schedule risks
YOU DO
Make judgment calls on trade-offs, negotiate with contractors and regulators, and own accountability for outcomes
TASK 105
Engineer production processes for specific nanotechnology applications, such as electroplating, nanofabrication, or epoxy.
AI DOES
Searches literature, runs process simulations, suggests parameter ranges, and drafts process documentation
YOU DO
Test physical setups, troubleshoot real equipment failures, and make safety-critical process calls
TASK 106
Manage new product introduction projects to ensure effective deployment of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices or applications.
AI DOES
Drafts project timelines, summarizes status reports, flags schedule risks, and organizes documentation
YOU DO
Build team trust, make judgment calls under uncertainty, and negotiate with suppliers and stakeholders
TASK 107
Conduct acceptance tests, vendor-qualification protocols, surveys, audits, corrective-action reviews, or performance monitoring of incoming materials or components to ensure conformance to specifications.
AI DOES
Analyzes test results, spots patterns in vendor data, and drafts audit checklists or corrective-action reports
YOU DO
Run the physical tests, inspect real parts, and make final calls on borderline components
TASK 108
Design gas lasers, solid state lasers, infrared, or other light emitting or light sensitive devices.
AI DOES
Searches literature, explains physics concepts, checks equations, and drafts design specs
YOU DO
Make real-world tradeoffs between materials, safety, performance, and cost that require hands-on expertise
TASK 109SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Plan mobile robot paths and teach path plans to robots.
AI DOES
Generates optimal paths and movement sequences
YOU DO
Verify safety and real-world constraints
About this analysis
67% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 110SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Debug robotics programs.
AI DOES
Scans code and suggests likely bug fixes
YOU DO
Test fixes and judge system behavior
About this analysis
66% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 111
Integrate robotics with peripherals, such as welders, controllers, or other equipment.
AI DOES
Drafts integration code, suggests wiring layouts, and flags compatibility issues in specs
YOU DO
Physically connect, test, and tune the real hardware on the shop floor
TASK 112
Conduct testing to determine functionality or optimization or to establish limits of photonics systems or components.
AI DOES
Analyzes test data, runs simulations, and flags anomalies in measurements
YOU DO
Set up physical equipment, interpret unexpected results, and make safety-critical decisions in the lab
TASK 113
Upgrade the design of existing devices by adding mechatronic elements.
AI DOES
Suggests compatible sensors, actuators, and control components; generates design concepts; runs simulations
YOU DO
Judge real-world tradeoffs, validate physical fit, and make safety-critical design calls
TASK 114
Train operators, engineers, or other personnel.
AI DOES
Drafts training slides, quizzes, and step-by-step guides on photonics concepts
YOU DO
Lead live demos, adjust explanations on the fly, and build trust with learners
TASK 115
Coordinate or supervise the work of suppliers or vendors in the designing, building, or testing of nanosystem devices, such as lenses or probes.
AI DOES
Drafts emails, tracks vendor timelines, flags spec mismatches, and summarizes test data
YOU DO
Build trust with vendors and make real-time judgment calls on quality and trade-offs
TASK 116
Develop laser-processed designs, such as laser-cut medical devices.
AI DOES
Suggests design parameters, optimizes cut paths, and flags potential design flaws in CAD files
YOU DO
Validate safety, test physical prototypes, and sign off on medical device standards
TASK 117
Devise microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) production methods, such as integrated circuit fabrication, lithographic electroform modeling, or micromachining.
AI DOES
Searches research papers, suggests process flows, and runs simulations of fabrication steps
YOU DO
Test real materials in the lab, troubleshoot equipment, and make judgment calls when something unexpected happens
TASK 118
Design mechatronics components for computer-controlled products, such as cameras, video recorders, automobiles, or airplanes.
AI DOES
Suggests component options, generates simulation models, drafts control code, and checks designs against specs
YOU DO
Make final safety and integration decisions that require hands-on testing and real-world engineering judgment
TASK 119
Provide technical direction or support to installation teams during installation, start-up, testing, system commissioning, or performance monitoring.
AI DOES
Analyzes performance data, flags anomalies, and pulls up technical specs or troubleshooting steps fast
YOU DO
Stay on-site to make real-time judgment calls and keep crews safe
TASK 120
Develop or test photonic prototypes or models.
AI DOES
Helps simulate optical designs, model light behavior, and analyze test data faster
YOU DO
Physically build, align, and iterate on real prototype hardware in the lab
TASK 121
Conduct harsh environmental testing, accelerated aging, device characterization, or field trials to validate devices, using inspection tools, testing protocols, peripheral instrumentation, or modeling and simulation software.
AI DOES
Runs simulations, analyzes test data, suggests test protocols, and flags anomalies in results
YOU DO
Set up physical equipment, run hands-on trials, and judge real-world device behavior
TASK 122
Assist in the transition of photonic prototypes to production.
AI DOES
Drafts process documentation, flags design-for-manufacturing issues, and summarizes technical specs
YOU DO
Physically test components, negotiate with suppliers, and make judgment calls on tricky engineering trade-offs
TASK 123SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Write algorithms or programming code for ad hoc robotic applications.
AI DOES
Generates code frameworks and common functions
YOU DO
Design the logic and test for real conditions
About this analysis
58% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 124
Inspect or monitor energy systems, including heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) or daylighting systems to determine energy use or potential energy savings.
AI DOES
Analyzes energy usage data, flags anomalies in system logs, and suggests efficiency improvements from reports
YOU DO
Walk the building, use your senses, and make safety calls that need eyes and hands on real equipment
TASK 125
Build, configure, or test robots or robotic applications.
AI DOES
Generates control code, runs virtual simulations, and flags errors in configurations
YOU DO
Handle physical assembly, wiring, and real-world testing that only hands-on work can verify
TASK 126
Implement or test design solutions.
AI DOES
Suggests test plans, reviews code, flags design issues, and helps interpret sensor data
YOU DO
Physically build, wire, and run tests on real hardware in the lab
TASK 127
Oversee or provide expertise on manufacturing, assembly, or fabrication processes.
AI DOES
Drafts process documentation, flags spec deviations in sensor data, and suggests troubleshooting steps
YOU DO
Walk the floor, use your senses, and make real-time calls only you can make in person
TASK 128SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Design software to control robotic systems for applications, such as military defense or manufacturing.
AI DOES
Generates code templates and control algorithms
YOU DO
Define requirements and safety constraints
About this analysis
46% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 129
Supervise technologists or technicians engaged in nanotechnology research or production.
AI DOES
Helps track project progress, flag safety data patterns, and summarize reports
YOU DO
Stay present in the lab and lead the people doing the work
TASK 130
Conduct or oversee the conduct of prototype development or microfabrication activities to ensure compliance to specifications and promote effective production processes.
AI DOES
Reviews design specs, flags compliance issues, and suggests process improvements from data
YOU DO
Stay in the lab to run equipment, observe results, and make safety calls
TASK 131
Demonstrate miniaturized systems that contain components, such as microsensors, microactuators, or integrated electronic circuits, fabricated on silicon or silicon carbide wafers.
AI DOES
Helps write documentation, simulation reports, and presentation materials about how the microsystem works
YOU DO
Physically operate, calibrate, and show the real hardware to an audience in a lab or demo setting
TASK 132
Oversee the work activities of wind farm consultants or subcontractors.
AI DOES
Tracks schedules, flags delays, summarizes progress reports, and drafts status updates
YOU DO
Build trust with contractors and make real-time calls on site
TASK 133
Analyze, fabricate, or test fiber-optic links.
AI DOES
Helps model signal loss, analyze test data, and suggest design parameters
YOU DO
Handle physical fiber, run lab equipment, and interpret real-world test results in person
TASK 134
Direct balance of plant (BOP) construction, generator installation, testing, commissioning, or supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) to ensure compliance with specifications.
AI DOES
Reviews SCADA data streams, flags spec deviations, and drafts commissioning checklists
YOU DO
Stay on-site to direct crews, inspect hardware, and make real-time safety decisions
TASK 135
Select, purchase, set up, operate, or troubleshoot state-of-the-art laser cutting equipment.
AI DOES
Searches equipment specs, compares vendor options, and looks up troubleshooting guides
YOU DO
Physically set up, align, and test the laser system in person
TASK 136SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Create or maintain formal engineering documents, such as schematics, bills of materials, components or materials specifications, or packaging requirements.
AI DOES
Generates templates and auto-fills standard specifications
YOU DO
Verify requirements meet real-world needs
About this analysis
44% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 137SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Design advanced precision equipment for accurate or controlled applications.
AI DOES
Generates design options and runs performance simulations
YOU DO
Choose specs that solve real problems
About this analysis
42% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 138
Conduct engineering site audits to collect structural, electrical, and related site information for use in the design of residential or commercial solar power systems.
AI DOES
Helps organize checklists, analyze photos, flag code requirements, and draft preliminary reports from collected data
YOU DO
Show up on-site, use your eyes and hands to spot real conditions, and make safety calls no camera can make
TASK 139SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Analyze, interpret, or create graphical representations of energy data, using engineering software.
AI DOES
Generates charts and runs standard analysis algorithms
YOU DO
Interpret patterns and choose meaningful insights
About this analysis
40% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 140
Supervise technologists, technicians, or other engineers.
AI DOES
Drafts performance summaries, flags project delays, and organizes team schedules
YOU DO
Build real relationships and make tough calls about people
TASK 141
Test wind turbine components, using mechanical or electronic testing equipment.
AI DOES
Analyzes sensor readings and test data to spot patterns or failures faster
YOU DO
Handle the physical equipment, run the tests safely, and judge what the results mean in real conditions
TASK 142
Monitor wind farm construction to ensure compliance with regulatory standards or environmental requirements.
AI DOES
Organizes regulatory checklists, flags documentation gaps, and summarizes compliance reports
YOU DO
Walk the site, observe conditions firsthand, and make safety calls in real time
TASK 143SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Investigate characteristics such as cost, performance, or process capability of potential microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) device designs, using simulation or modeling software.
AI DOES
Runs simulations and generates performance data
YOU DO
Interpret results and guide design choices
About this analysis
39% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 144SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Write proposals to secure external funding or to partner with other companies.
AI DOES
Drafts sections and formats proposal templates
YOU DO
Shape the strategy and sell the vision
About this analysis
38% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 145SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Create schematics and physical layouts of integrated microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) components or packaged assemblies consistent with process, functional, or package constraints.
AI DOES
Generates layout options and checks basic design rules
YOU DO
Choose the right tradeoffs and constraints
About this analysis
37% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 146SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Document robotic application development, maintenance, or changes.
AI DOES
Generates technical documentation and change logs automatically
YOU DO
Decide what details matter most
About this analysis
37% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 147SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Prepare reports, deliver presentations, or participate in program review activities to communicate engineering results or recommendations.
AI DOES
Generates slides, charts, and technical summaries
YOU DO
Tell the story and defend decisions
About this analysis
36% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 148SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Promote awareness or use of alternative or renewable energy sources.
AI DOES
Creates content and targets audiences automatically
YOU DO
Build trust and inspire real action
About this analysis
35% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 149
Develop or implement microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) processing tools, fixtures, gages, dies, molds, or trays.
AI DOES
Helps generate design drafts, search literature, and check fabrication parameters
YOU DO
Build, test, and fine-tune the actual physical tools in the lab
TASK 150
Test or evaluate photovoltaic (PV) cells or modules.
AI DOES
Analyzes test data, flags anomalies, and helps interpret performance results
YOU DO
Set up equipment, run physical tests, and make safety calls on-site
TASK 151SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Design electro-optical sensing or imaging systems.
AI DOES
Simulates optical paths and suggests component layouts
YOU DO
Choose specs that fit real mission needs
About this analysis
33% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 152SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Design, integrate, or test photonics systems or components.
AI DOES
Simulates circuits and suggests design optimizations
YOU DO
Choose specs and validate real performance
About this analysis
31% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 153SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Provide technical support for robotic systems.
AI DOES
Diagnoses common issues and suggests repair steps
YOU DO
Troubleshoot the weird problems yourself
About this analysis
30% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 154SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Apply nanotechnology to improve the performance or reduce the environmental impact of energy products, such as fuel cells or solar cells.
AI DOES
Simulates nanomaterial properties and suggests design options
YOU DO
Choose which paths to pursue and why
About this analysis
29% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 155SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Design engineering systems for the automation of industrial tasks.
AI DOES
Generates system layouts and component specifications
YOU DO
Judge feasibility and safety trade-offs
About this analysis
28% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 156SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Research, select, or apply sensors, communication technologies, or control devices for motion control, position sensing, pressure sensing, or electronic communication.
AI DOES
Suggests sensors and specs from databases
YOU DO
Choose what fits your real conditions
About this analysis
25% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 157SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Design or develop energy products using nanomaterials or nanoprocesses, such as micro-nano machining.
AI DOES
Simulates nanomaterial properties and suggests design parameters
YOU DO
Choose the right approach for real applications
About this analysis
24% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 158SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Design robotic systems, such as automatic vehicle control, autonomous vehicles, advanced displays, advanced sensing, robotic platforms, computer vision, or telematics systems.
AI DOES
Generates design options and runs simulations
YOU DO
Choose the right solution for real needs
About this analysis
23% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 159SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Analyze system performance or operational requirements.
AI DOES
Generates performance reports and identifies bottlenecks
YOU DO
Decide what trade-offs to make
About this analysis
21% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 160SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Develop or validate specialized materials characterization procedures, such as thermal withstand, fatigue, notch sensitivity, abrasion, or hardness tests.
AI DOES
Suggests test protocols and analyzes measurement data
YOU DO
Design the right test for real conditions
About this analysis
21% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 161
Collect data for energy conservation analyses, using jobsite observation, field inspections, or sub-metering.
AI DOES
Helps log and organize field data after collection
YOU DO
Show up on-site and gather real-world measurements yourself
TASK 162SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Conduct experimental or virtual studies to investigate characteristics and processing principles of potential microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology.
AI DOES
Runs simulations and processes experimental data
YOU DO
Design the experiments and interpret results
About this analysis
14% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 163SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Provide scientific or technical guidance or expertise to scientists, engineers, technologists, technicians, or others, using knowledge of chemical, analytical, or biological processes as applied to micro and nanoscale systems.
AI DOES
Analyzes data patterns and suggests technical solutions
YOU DO
Judge feasibility and guide the strategy
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 164SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Monitor and analyze energy consumption.
AI DOES
Tracks patterns and flags unusual usage
YOU DO
Decide what changes to make
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 165SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Conduct research on new photonics technologies.
AI DOES
Searches databases and summarizes technical papers
YOU DO
Judge which breakthroughs truly matter
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 166SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Provide consultation or training on topics such as mechatronics or automated control.
AI DOES
Creates training materials and explains technical concepts
YOU DO
Adapt to each learner's needs
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 167SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Provide technical guidance or support to customers on topics such as nanosystem start-up, maintenance, or use.
AI DOES
Pulls up manuals and suggests troubleshooting steps
YOU DO
Read the situation and guide them through
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 168SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Analyze existing development or manufacturing procedures and suggest improvements.
AI DOES
Scans procedures and suggests optimization patterns
YOU DO
Judge feasibility and prioritize changes
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 169SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Propose product designs involving microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology, considering market data or customer requirements.
AI DOES
Analyzes market trends and suggests component options
YOU DO
Envision breakthrough applications and trade-offs
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 170SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Develop formal documentation for microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices, including quality assurance guidance, quality control protocols, process control checklists, data collection, or reporting.
AI DOES
Generates document templates and formatting structures
YOU DO
Ensure technical accuracy and compliance
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 171SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Identify, procure, or develop test equipment, instrumentation, or facilities for characterization of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) applications.
AI DOES
Suggests equipment specs and vendor options
YOU DO
Judge what actually fits your testing needs
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 172SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Determine commercial, industrial, scientific, or other uses for electro-optical applications or devices.
AI DOES
Suggests potential applications from vast technical databases
YOU DO
Judge market fit and real-world feasibility
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 173SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Integrate nanotechnology with antimicrobial properties into products, such as household or medical appliances, to reduce the development of bacteria or other microbes.
AI DOES
Simulates nanoparticle behavior and suggests material combinations
YOU DO
Design safe products people will trust
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium

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AT A GLANCE

Occupation: Engineers, All Other
SOC code: 17-2199
Tasks reviewed: 173 of 179

How we assess

PAY & OUTLOOK

Compare pay by state

Median pay (national): $122,930 · BLS OEWS 2025
Median pay (Colorado): $132,590 · BLS OEWS 2025
Employed (national): 154,070
Employed in Colorado: 2,540
Job outlook: +2.1% by 2034 · ~9,300 openings/yr

Wages from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. National figures cover the United States. Job outlook is national.

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Your job, task by task.

Prepare energy-related project reports or related documentation.

Write reports or proposals related to photonics research or development projects.

Create checklists for review or inspection of completed solar installation projects.

Research renewable or alternative energy systems or technologies, such as solar thermal or photovoltaic energy.

Make system device lists or event timing charts.

Perform thermal, stress, or cost reduction analyses for solar systems.

Create plans for solar energy system development, monitoring, and evaluation activities.

Create electrical single-line diagrams, panel schedules, or connection diagrams for solar electric systems, using computer-aided design (CAD) software.

Perform computer simulation of solar photovoltaic (PV) generation system performance or energy production to optimize efficiency.

Process or interpret signals or sensor data.

Create or maintain wind farm layouts, schematics, or other visual documentation for wind farms.

Develop design specifications and functional requirements for residential, commercial, or industrial solar energy systems or components.

Develop or file intellectual property and patent disclosure or application documents related to microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices, products, or systems.

Review architectural, mechanical, or electrical plans or specifications to evaluate energy efficiency.

Maintain technical project files.

Create models to optimize the layout of wind farm access roads, crane pads, crane paths, collection systems, substations, switchyards, or transmission lines.

Create embedded software design programs.

Design or develop automated control systems for environmental applications, such as waste processing, air quality, or water quality systems.

Design or engineer nanomaterials, nanodevices, nano-enabled products, or nanosystems, using three-dimensional computer-aided design (CAD) software.

Create or maintain photonic design histories.

Develop customer documentation, such as performance specifications, training manuals, or operating instructions.

Write reports to document wind farm collector system test results.

Automate assays on laboratory robotics.

Identify and recommend energy savings strategies to achieve more energy-efficient operation.

Design or coordinate design of photovoltaic (PV) or solar thermal systems, including system components, for residential and commercial buildings.

Advise clients or colleagues on topics such as climate control systems, energy modeling, data logging, sustainable design, or energy auditing.

Identify materials appropriate for mechatronic system designs.

Develop standard operation procedures and quality or safety standards for solar installation work.

Conduct research into the feasibility, design, operation, or performance of robotic mechanisms, components, or systems, such as planetary rovers, multiple mobile robots, reconfigurable robots, or man-machine interactions.

Document photonics system or component design processes, including objectives, issues, or outcomes.

Design automated robotic systems to increase production volume or precision in high-throughput operations, such as automated ribonucleic acid (RNA) analysis or sorting, moving, or stacking production materials.

Plan or schedule engineering research or development projects involving microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology.

Communicate operating characteristics or performance experience to other engineers or designers for training or new product development purposes.

Recommend best fuel for specific sites or circumstances.

Design robotics applications for manufacturers of green products, such as wind turbines or solar panels, to increase production time, eliminate waste, or reduce costs.

Design nano-based manufacturing processes to minimize water, chemical, or energy use, as well as to reduce waste production.

Analyze operation of wind farms or wind farm components to determine reliability, performance, and compliance with specifications.

Create mechanical design documents for parts, assemblies, or finished products.

Monitor energy related design or construction issues, such as energy engineering, energy management, or sustainable design.

Review or approve designs, calculations, or cost estimates.

Conduct research related to a range of nanotechnology topics, such as packaging, heat transfer, fluorescence detection, nanoparticle dispersion, hybrid systems, liquid systems, nanocomposites, nanofabrication, optoelectronics, or nanolithography.

Verify energy bills and meter readings.

Review specifications and recommend engineering or manufacturing changes to achieve solar design objectives.

Create back-ups of robot programs or parameters.

Perform energy modeling, measurement, verification, commissioning, or retro-commissioning.

Read current literature, talk with colleagues, continue education, or participate in professional organizations or conferences to keep abreast of developments in the field.

Conduct research on robotic technology to create new robotic systems or system capabilities.

Recommend process or infrastructure changes to improve wind turbine performance, reduce operational costs, or comply with regulations.

Determine applications of photonics appropriate to meet product objectives or features.

Investigate experimental wind turbines or wind turbine technologies for properties such as aerodynamics, production, noise, and load.

Review or negotiate energy purchase agreements.

Publish engineering reports documenting design details or qualification test results.

Design or program robotics systems for environmental clean-up applications to minimize human exposure to toxic or hazardous materials or to improve the quality or speed of clean-up operations.

Design advanced electronic control systems for mechanical systems.

Determine the feasibility, costs, or performance benefits of new mechatronic equipment.

Design, develop, or implement control circuits or algorithms for electromechanical or pneumatic devices or systems.

Identify new applications for existing nanotechnologies.

Design underground or overhead wind farm collector systems.

Prepare nanotechnology-related invention disclosures or patent applications.

Design or redesign optical fibers to minimize energy loss.

Evaluate materials, fabrication methods, joining methods, surface treatments, or packaging to ensure acceptable processing, performance, cost, sustainability, or availability.

Design nanoparticle catalysts to detect or remove chemical or other pollutants from water, soil, or air.

Conduct analyses addressing issues such as failure, reliability, or yield improvement.

Create mechanical models to simulate mechatronic design concepts.

Validate fabrication processes for microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), using statistical process control implementation, virtual process simulations, data mining, or life testing.

Develop active control algorithms, electronics, software, electromechanical, or electrohydraulic systems for wind turbines.

Design photonics products, such as light sources, displays, or photovoltaics, to achieve increased energy efficiency.

Develop or validate product-specific test protocols, acceptance thresholds, or inspection tools for quality control testing or performance measurement.

Perform root cause analysis on wind turbine tower component failures.

Consult with construction or renovation clients or other engineers on topics such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) or Green Buildings.

Design or develop sensors to reduce the energy or resource requirements to operate appliances, such as washing machines or dishwashing machines.

Research or develop emerging microelectromechanical (MEMS) systems to convert nontraditional energy sources into power, such as ambient energy harvesters that convert environmental vibrations into usable energy.

Design sensors or switches that require little or no power to operate for environmental monitoring or industrial metering applications.

Consider environmental issues when proposing product designs involving microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology.

Conduct energy audits to evaluate energy use and to identify conservation and cost reduction measures.

Develop optical or imaging systems, such as optical imaging products, optical components, image processes, signal process technologies, or optical systems.

Refine final microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) design to optimize design for target dimensions, physical tolerances, or processing constraints.