Optics Technician III

Job Title

Manufacturing 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 works among a team of individuals manufacturing Photonics products for our customers while providing guidance for less experienced team members. The role entails such functions as kitting, operating machines, and in process measurements. 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.

• Able to work in a production area with high degree of difficulty processes.

• Prepare raw materials for processing using blocking methods such as wax, pitch, film, and optical contacting.

• Remove work from tooling and clean/prepare for next process.

• Perform daily maintenance and upkeep of assigned machines in area.

• Advanced operation to setup, load, unload, and operate optical manufacturing equipment such as cutting, edging, grinding, and polishing machines.

• Utilization of conventional, double-sided, and CNC based equipment to work on glass and crystal materials to produce components such as windows, mirrors, prisms, filters, and lenses.

• Setup, measurement, and analysis of parts using metrology devices such as hand tools, microscopes, test plates, autocollimators, profilometers, and interferometers.

• Troubleshoot and resolve process issues.

• Participate in process development projects with Engineering.

• Train less experienced team members.

• Handle and Clean Specialty Fiber Optics, Precision Optics, and mechanical components.

• Sort and count parts and materials.

• Examine parts and materials for defects.

• Must be able to understand written work instructions and technical drawings for a wide range of products to properly manufacture the final product to the highest of quality standards with zero scrap or rework.

• Maintain proper records in our Manufacturing Database.

• Participate in Continuous Improvement efforts.

• Cross trained to be able to work in multiple production areas.

• Comply with the company safety program and maintain a clean and organized work area.

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.