Quality Technician

At Thorlabs, we design and manufacture components, instruments, and systems that transform the world by identifying, enabling, and accelerating key photonics (i.e., light-based) technologies. Backed by a dedicated workforce of more than 3,000 employees worldwide, Thorlabs contributes to cutting‑edge research and real‑world innovation.

Whether you’re early in your career or bringing years of experience, you’ll find opportunities to grow, take ownership, and make meaningful contributions from day one. We know every employee brings unique talents and perspectives that fuel our success, and we seek driven individuals who are excited to make an impact in a fun, fast‑moving culture.

This position exists to effectively assure vendor & manufacturing compliance to Thorlabs ISO
9001 quality standards protecting customers. Inspectors perform visual and dimensional inspection of precision parts and make quick, accurate pass/fail decisions on many types of optics—including filters, mirrors, crystals, prisms, and lenses—as well as mechanical components used in conjunction with optical components. Visual surface quality inspections are often performed under a 100‑watt bulb in a low‑lit room. Although the location of the position is in Newton, NJ, from time to time it may be required to undertake duties at other Thorlabs locations.

• Identify non‑conformances through specified inspection methods.
• Perform extremely detailed visual inspections on intricate and delicate parts, occasionally under microscopes.
• Conduct inspections efficiently, with attention to detail.
• Report measurement metrics to track efficiency and quality.
• Maintain proper records in our Manufacturing Database.
• Serve as a low‑friction interface to peers, vendors, and others during inspection interactions.
• Measure dimensions of optics with calipers and compare them to manufacturing drawings.

In addition to the essential functions and duties listed above, all positions are also responsible for:

• Meeting company standards regarding quantity and quality of work performed on an ongoing basis and performing all tasks in compliance with company policies and procedures.
• Adhering to company policies, procedures, and directives regarding standards of workplace behavior when completing job duties and assignments.

The Company retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

Work may be active; employees may stand or sit for long durations and perform repetitive work  employee may lift or move objects up to 20 pounds. Employees must grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small parts and components. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but may become noisy loyees must wear appropriate clothing and personal protective equipment such as masks, glasses, gloves, and specialty garments.

Required PPE and training allow safe handling and processing of chemicals like adhesives, lubricants, and solvents, and safe operation of job‑related equipment and tools.

• Minimum of 1 year of manufacturing experience preferred.

• High School Diploma or equivalent or equivalent work experience.

• Ability to learn, understand, and effectively apply sampling plans.
• Skilled in the use of handheld measuring tools and devices, including but not limited to calipers and micrometers.
• Good verbal and written communication skills to operate in both individual and team environments.
• Capable of reading mechanical drawings and interpreting dimensional tolerances.
• Adaptable to process and procedure changes.
• Capacity to convert from imperial to metric measurements.
• Ability to meet department standards for productivity and quality.
• Computer literacy using MS Office, Outlook, and ERP software is mandatory.
• Must have the ability to cross‑train in all areas of the department, including visual and dimensional inspection, data entry, laser engravers, and metrology equipment.
• High attention to detail.

The hourly rate for this position is $20.50 – $21.00 D.O.E.

Thorlabs values its diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. Job descriptions are not intended as, nor do they create employment contracts. The organization maintains its status as an at‑will employer.

Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law.

Thorlabs offers a complete benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, company‑paid life insurance, a generous PTO package, a 401(k) plan, and tuition reimbursement, just to name a few.