Mechanical Inspector - Team Lead - 2nd shift

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.

The MBU Mechanical Inspector position is responsible for upholding the high‑quality standards of the Thorlabs supply chain from within the Mechanics group. This individual will inspect the quality and accuracy of incoming high precision mechanical components in compliance with Thorlabs manufacturing and ISO
9001 quality standards. They will utilize metrology equipment, knowledge, and creative skills to perform visual and dimensional first article inspections and sample lot pass/fail evaluations, documenting inspections while monitoring vendor performance. The Team Lead will coordinate and oversee inspection priorities, department resources, and intercompany assistance.

They must take a customer centric approach, be independent, flexible and a solid team player with great communication skills. 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.

The hours for this position are 4:00pm- 12:30am Monday - Friday. This shift is eligible for a shift differential

• Prioritize department workflow and respond to urgent requests, emails, and tasks.
• Ensure inspectors receive assistance, maintain focus/direction, and are properly trained.
• Determine, manage, and set levels, frequencies, rules, and points of inspection.
• Assist intercompany with product inspection needs and measurement training when required.
• Unbiased evaluation of vendor supplied components to blueprint specifications and manufacturing standards.
• Utilize manual and automated metrology equipment and methods to measure highly toleranced components.
• Perform and document accurate, efficient, thorough, dimensional and visual, first article and sample lot inspections.
• Recognize critical features, monitor product quality, and communicate supplier performance.
• Segregate, disposition, and clearly mark non-conforming material. Sort and rework product where required.
• Ensure components are handled carefully and protected, as well as clearly marked and organized with accurate quantities.
• Ensure calibrated and well-maintained equipment is utilized and kept up to date.
• Submit requests for new or additional tools and equipment or resources when necessary.
• Continuously strive to improve the quality, processes, procedures, communication, and documentation within the inspection department.

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

• Meeting company standards pertaining to quantity and quality of work performed on an ongoing basis, performing all work-related tasks in a manner that is in compliance with all Company policies and procedures.
• Adhering to Company policies, procedures, and directives regarding standards of workplace behavior in completing job duties and assignments.

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

Physical

Activities:

Work may be active, could stand or sit for long durations and/or perform repetitious work  employee may lift or move objects up to 20 pounds. Employees must grasp, manipulate, or assemble parts and components that are often very small. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, however, may be noisy t be able to wear appropriate clothing and personal protective equipment such as but not limited to masks, glasses, gloves, and specialty garments.

The required PPE and training allow for the safe handling…