Project Manager, Operations Manager, Program ​/ Project Manager

What is the job?

The Project Manager leads a range of improvement initiatives that support the organisation’s lean transformation and cultural development. Working closely with experienced project managers and colleagues across the business, the postholder will help plan, coordinate, and track project activities while learning and applying lean tools and structured problem‑solving methods. The role is accountable for capturing current‑state conditions, driving problem‑solving and waste elimination, and collaborating with stakeholders to design and implement future‑state processes.

A key part of the role is engaging with colleagues in manufacturing and office functions to understand how work is carried out and where improvements can be made. This is a developmental position suited to someone looking to grow their project management capability within an industrial lean manufacturing environment. Projects may include process optimisation, new equipment introductions, technology improvements, and cultural or communication initiatives.

This role would suit someone with a Science, engineering or business degree or with similar knowledge or experience. Are you a researcher looking to move industry? Then get in touch.

Monday to Friday 8.00 am – 4.30 pm (1 hour lunch) Hybrid working available

2 stage process following shortlisting – First stage: 1 hour Teams interview

Second stage:
OnSite 2 hour interview

• Provide oversight, coordination, and reporting for continuous improvement projects involving cross‑functional, multi‑disciplinary teams.
• Work closely with the Senior Project Manager and senior leadership to define business needs, project objectives, and expected deliverables.
• Responsible for updating project plans, tracking tasks, managing documentation.
• Lead regular project meetings to monitor progress, address risks, and maintain alignment with goals.
• Manage project to ensure work is delivered on time and to the expected quality.

• Support initiatives that promote a culture of empowerment, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Assist in maintaining and improving project templates, processes, and toolkits.

Thorlabs is a global, industry leading optical technologies company. We are experts in the design and manufacture or a range of innovative photonics products. We use these products in manufacturing and research, from fibre optics to piezo motors. We are the gold standard with optics laboratories worldwide. There are now 22 facilities across the world in 9 countries. Here in Ely, we are responsible for the Motion Control and Optical Tables product line.

It’s a hybrid role, working in our new purpose‑built facility in Witchford, Ely as well as your home. Our purpose‑built facility is just 12 miles from Cambridge, within the beautiful medieval city of Ely. There are train and bus links to Ely from Kings Cross and Liverpool Street London, and our site is within distance of Ely train station and Ely Bus station.

• Strong organisational and time‑management skills and able to work well within cross‑functional teams.
• Clear and effective verbal and written communication.
• Proficiency in office software and project‑support tools (e.g., Microsoft Office, SharePoint).
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritise effectively, effective multitasking, managing time and work independently.
• Good analytical and problem‑solving abilities with a strong attention to detail / accuracy.
• Willingness to contribute to improvement activities across departments.
• Positive approach to problem solving, able to identify issues.
• Open to new challenges and committed to continuous learning and development

• Understanding of Lean principles and methodologies.
• Experience in leading projects or work streams.

At Thorlabs there are lots of opportunities for inhouse customised training and development that accelerates your career progression. We have free onsite parking, free refreshments, as well as an entertainment area in our large canteen for your…