Laser technology is a widespread field that is applied to many industries such as; medicine, cosmetics, research, applied physics, communication systems and even chemistry. These industries all make use of lasers in various ways to include removing cellulite, laser hair removal, testing certain theories on the composition of matter and many more.
If you are interested in this career, you will need to learn how to be able to handle lasers and contribute to the scientific community and society as a whole. You will need proper education and training on how to maintain and operate laser systems. Here’s how to become a laser technician:
- Undergo training to become a laser technician. For the Certified Laser Assistant in the Medical field certification, all you will need is a high school diploma and a documented laser training course. For the more complex certifications such as certified Laser Repair Technician, you will need either a Bachelor of Science Degree or an Associate of Science Degree, in addition to your laser training course. Laser training can be done through a vocational program, but some schools only take in nurses, licensed aestheticians or cosmetologists. If you're interested in online learning options, you'll be glad to know that a number of accredited online colleges offer the medical career training you'll need to succeed in this field. Laser training programs are comprised of classroom learning and hands-on work with a laser machine. Coursework includes laser devices, laser safety, physics, regulatory guidelines and for medical laser technicians, hair removal, tattoo removal and collagen rejuvenation.
- Get certification. After completing training, you will need to get your laser technician certification through the National Council on Laser Excellence (NCLE). You will have to complete clinical experience requirements and pass an exam. Make sure you check your state requirements for employment as a laser technician, as the requirements vary from state to state and some are very stringent.
In order to sit for the exam, the applicant must have met the following education requirements: 4 hours of coursework for Certified Laser Assistant-Medical, 15 hours of coursework for Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer, 16 hours of coursework for Certified Laser Hair Removal, 24 hours for Certified Laser Aesthetician/Operator, and 40 hours for Certified Laser Repair Technician. - Know the job responsibilities. A laser technician’s job is to build, operate, repair and maintain the lasers used in these fields. Laser technicians also have a hand in developing laser designs and new models for lasers at varying power. In some states, Registered Nurses, Physician's Assistants and Nurse Practitioners can perform minor medical procedures with lasers under the supervision of a doctor. These technicians are at the cutting-edge of technology.
Laser technicians do the set-up work for basic procedures involving lasers. They are required to operate under certain guidelines when they do their work; they must adhere to certain standards set by the American National Standard Institute. Laser technicians need to be well-versed in laser engineering theory and electronics. From time to time they also write technical reports that provide solutions to problems involving laser technology. - Understand the difference between laser technicians and laser specialists. Laser technicians should not be confused with a laser specialist or surgical laser specialist. A laser specialist has extensive medical education, background and training. They actually train doctors how to use lasers in major medical and surgical procedures.
- Help with new developments in the field. Being a laser technician is a demanding but fulfilling job. You will have a major role in making new discoveries in various fields of research such as in chemistry and applied physics. You may even be one of those who will make certain experiments possible, such as those involving particle accelerators and other devices which use high-intensity lasers in order to make new discoveries in the field of science. The possibilities in this field are endless!
- Know about the salary and employment opportunities. Laser technicians make an average salary of $58,000 and up. The job opportunities for this include; medical laser technician in spas, medical offices, surgery centers and clinics. With the proper degree, you may find yourself working in a major lab or research institute. Due to the increased use of lasers, this career is expected to grow 5% until 2018.
Laser technicians are in great demand due to the numerous applications of laser technology, and as laser technology remains at the forefront of scientific research and development, this demand will not drop anytime soon. Once you have the proper laser training you can start your exciting new career working with medical lasers.