Manufacturing Engineer , Optical Metrology

Position Overview

At Thorlabs, we design and manufacture components, instruments, and systems that transform the world by identifying, enabling, and accelerating key photonics technologies. With 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.

The Manufacturing Engineer (Mfr. Engineer) is responsible for overseeing and improving the metrology equipment and methods employed in the production process for the division, developing and teaching testing techniques, improving manufacturing process issues, solving production related problems, and promoting quality throughout production and related departments.

The position may require occasional travel to other Thorlabs locations. The role will be based in Newton, NJ.

We are part of the Thorlabs Advanced Photonics (TAP) Business Unit, which includes departments such as Optical Shop, Coating, Fiber Draw, Fiber Cabling, Opto‑Mechanical Assembly, and Metrology.

• Identify problems and provide solutions for manufacturing issues related to newly released products and established production workflow.
• Participate in design reviews with engineering to identify and discuss proper testing procedures and potential issues with newly developed products prior to release for production.
• Conduct training with production personnel to improve existing manufacturing and testing processes throughout the division.
• Interface with engineering and operations to ensure transfer of new product releases is in accordance with approved processes, requirements, and specifications.
• Collaborate with the RMA and service departments to inspect and find root causes for customer returns from the field, and implement corrective actions to prevent future failures.
• Create and maintain testing process documents that reflect current and future conditions.
• Collaborate with technicians and assembly personnel to make necessary changes or revisions to assembly and test procedures for TAP products.
• Create jigs and fixtures to improve testing methods, efficiency, or reduce component damage and waste.
• Assist in completing engineering changes identified through prototype and pilot runs to increase product manufacturability.
• Help create and maintain production routing steps and timing.
• Assist in revision control and documentation verification.
• Keep current with the newest metrology techniques and equipment within the industry and look for opportunities to implement.

• Minimum 1 year of experience in a relevant engineering position or in a manufacturing environment. Design for Six Sigma and Lean manufacturing experience is a plus.
• Bachelor’s degree in physics, engineering (optical, mechanical, production, etc.) or equivalent.
• Basic computer knowledge such as Solid Works and Microsoft products.
• Experience with optical metrology methods and equipment (power meter, spectrophotometer, profilometer, interferometer, ellipsometer).
• Experience with manufacturing, configuration management, and product development in an R&D / New Product Development Environment.
• Experience with quality improvement tools and techniques (Lean, Six Sigma, Process Control, Failure Mode & Effect Analysis).
• Familiarity with optics and/or fabrication of glasses and crystal used to create optical components.
• Strong ability to work well in a group atmosphere and comply with high‑quality standards.
• Experience using standard measurement equipment (calipers, micrometers, pin and thread gauges, etc.).
• Must be able to work on ITAR restricted projects.

The estimated pay range for this role is $71,000 – $80,000 annually depending on experience.

Thorlabs offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance; company‑paid life insurance; a generous PTO package; a 401(k) plan; and tuition reimbursement, among other benefits.

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 and do not create employment contracts. The organization maintains its status as an at‑will employer.

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