Production Supervisor
Listed on 2026-02-12
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Manufacturing / Production
Production Manager
Thorlabs Production Supervisor
Thorlabs is pleased to play a role in advancing science through the components, instruments, and systems we design and manufacture. We believe that science and innovation have great potential to improve the world around us and are committed to advancing photonics (i.e., light-based) technologies that positively impact our customers, employees, and communities. Via educational outreach and more sustainable business practices, we continuously invest in a brighter future.
We recognize that each of our employees is a unique individual with the ability to contribute to our success and seek to find great people who will thrive in our fun, fast-paced culture.
The Production Supervisor provides leadership, guidance, and supervision for the assigned area(s). This individual will work closely with management to ensure quality products are safely and efficiently produced within scheduled timeline. This position supervises all employees in the assigned area and is responsible for their hiring, training, and performance management. 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.
EssentialJob Functions
- Comply with safety regulations including but not limited to chemical handling, personal protective equipment and equipment utilization.
- Supervise all personnel within assigned group and include:
- Ensure new and existing employees are trained to perform their job tasks and have the proper training records.
- Ensure production goal for volume and quality is met and maintain workflow through the production floor.
- Develop a successful team, facilitate change, and align group performance to company values utilizing the Performance Management system.
- Interview new hires to fill openings and keep capacity matched to demand.
- Ensure compliance with Department and Company policies and implement corrective steps as needed.
- Mediate disagreements between employees.
- Monitor attendance, complete performance assessments; make promotion and termination recommendations as necessary.
- Create a positive work environment where employees are engaged.
- Oversight of product output:
- Ensure that practices and procedures followed are in accordance with Thorlabs Quality Management System and Advanced Photonics Instructions.
- Responsible for frequent checks of product quality and resolve any resulting quality issues that may arise.
- Work with Production Planning/Purchasing to establish and maintain a schedule that optimizes On Time Delivery.
- Assist in:
- Advise on design and lead times for Custom and OEM products to ensure on time deliveries.
- Manage system to ensure consumables and assembly supplies are accounted for and always available.
- Ensure instructions are updated as needed, accurate and repeatable.
- Report problems and opportunities for improvement to Engineering team and help implement solutions.
- Partner with Facility Engineering to perform Preventative Maintenance and minimize downtime.
- Meet 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.
- Adhere to Company policies, procedures, and directives regarding standards of workplace behavior in completing job duties and assignments.
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 and processing of chemicals like adhesives, lubricants, and solvents, and safe operation of job-related equipment and tools.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in a similar and progressive position with supervisory/leadership experience preferred.
- High School diploma or equivalent.
- Strong interpersonal, organizational, and decision-making skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills: basic math skills and proficient in using a computer.
- Troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
- General Industrial Safety knowledge.
- Ability to shift from one task to another to address changing production priorities.
The salary range for this position is $65,783.00 – $80,000.00 DOE.
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…
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