How to Become a Laser Technician

By: Anne Tamkin

Last Updated: Dec 23, 2018

Laser technology has made medical procedures once only the province of the elite available to the masses. Laser technicians are trained to use laser devices in a wide array of medical practices. Ophthalmic laser technicians assist doctors in optical measurements, diagnostics and LASIK eye corrective surgery. Cosmetic laser technicians use laser devices to remove hair, tattoos, varicose veins and skin irregularities. Laser is even used at dental offices to diagnose and treat periodontitis.

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New uses for laser are currently under development – to treat infection, pain and inflammation – and its applications will only increase over time. Laser technicians will be the specialists poised at the forefront of these exciting new discoveries, ready to implement laser’s new applications as they develop.

Workplace Details

Laser technicians work for medical spas, laser centers and doctors’ offices, especially for doctors who practice dermatology, ophthalmology or plastic surgery. They usually work 40-hour weeks, although they may also work part time with more flexible hours. Laser technicians who provide elective medical and cosmetic treatments may need to adapt their schedules to their clients, providing treatments during hours when their clients typically have free time, such as evenings and weekends. Most laser technicians require supervision by a medical professional such as a doctor or registered nurse.

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The salary range for laser technicians is as broad as laser’s many applications. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that skincare specialists, including laser technicians, make a median annual income of $30,270, with a general range of $18,640 to $59,780. Salary depends on experience, the number of hours worked, area of the country, and number of clients.

There are several factors contributing to a positive growth outlook for laser technicians. The movement toward less invasive medical procedures is increasing reliance upon laser technicians. As comfort and familiarity with laser increases, its use is becoming more widespread. Finally, as applications for laser technology increase, so will demand. All of these developments bode well for laser technicians. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, skincare specialists can expect a job growth of 12% between 2014 and 2024, which is considered faster than average. Laser technicians who provide skincare services can expect a similar job growth outlook.

Laser technicians need to attend a school that offers a laser technician program. These programs vary greatly in duration depending on the specific application of laser technology. For instance, a program tailored for laser skincare technicians might be found in a vocational school and last a matter of several days or weeks, while the preparation for a role in other applications of laser technology may take several years to complete.

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Associate degrees in laser technology are available. This course of study provides training in laser technology, math, physics and basic engineering. A bachelor’s degree in optical engineering is another degree appropriate to this profession; it takes four years to complete and covers most areas of optics (the study of light). Those wishing to do laser research can progress to master’s degree or PhD levels after earning their bachelor’s degree.

Subjects naturally vary among all of these programs, which isn’t surprising given the variety of applications of laser and duration of the programs. Any educational program will include the study of laser physics and important safety precautions, but some delve into engineering, fiber optics, photonics (the study of light particles) and a host of other subjects. Another common feature of any of these programs will be a healthy amount of hands-on training.

Applicants to laser technology degree programs should have an aptitude for mathematics, physics and electronics. If you have a degree in another field, such as medicine or nursing, you can complete a post-graduate training program in laser technology.

In most states, laser technicians with vocational training are allowed to operate laser devices, but laws regulate the types of treatments they are authorized to perform. Some states require laser technicians to have nursing (or more advanced) degrees in order to perform certain procedures.

Though many states do not require laser technicians to be certified in order to operate lasers, many employers prefer to hire certified laser technicians. Laser technicians can be certified through the National Council on Laser Certification (NCLC), International Laser and Aesthetic Organization, and the Board of Laser Safety.

Certification requirements generally include completion of an accredited laser technician training program, clinical experience and passing the NCLC (or equivalent) test.

Laser technicians with vocational diplomas sometimes go on to complete associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degrees in laser technology, where they can specialize in fields like photonics (the study of light particles) and electromechanical engineering. Earning a more advanced degree also improves job prospects and earning potential.