QC Inspector I

About Thorlabs

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.

Inspector position exists to effectively assure vendor & manufacturing compliance to Thorlabs ISO
9001 quality standards protecting customers. Inspectors perform visual and dimensional inspection of precision parts and make quick, accurate pass/fail decisions on many types of optics including filters, mirrors, crystals, prisms, lenses, assemblies, as well as mechanical components used in conjunction with optical components.

Although the location of the position is in Rochester, NY, from time to time it may be required to undertake duties at other Thorlabs locations.

include the following, but are not limited to:

• Perform visual and mechanical measurement of parts using metrology devices, such as microscopes and calipers.
• Identify non‑conformances through specified inspection methods.
• Ability to perform detailed visual inspections on intricate and delicate parts occasionally performed under microscopes.
• Record measurement metrics to accurately track efficiency and quality.
• Measure dimensions of optics with calipers and compare them to manufacturing drawings to assure accuracy.
• Handle and clean optics according to company‑specified procedures.
• Constantly strive to continuously improve the process within the Thorlabs improvement systems.
• May pack orders in a timely and efficient manner according to the printed sales order.

• 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.

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. Employee 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 loyee must be able to wear appropriate clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE) 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, as well as safe operation of job‑related equipment and tools. garments. The required PPE and training allow for the safe handling and processing of chemicals like adhesives, lubricants and solvents, as well as safe operation of job‑related equipment and tools.

• 1 year of experience in a similar position preferred.

• High School Diploma or equivalent or equivalent work experience.

• Ability to learn, understand, and effectively apply sampling plans.
• Skilled in the use of hand‑held measuring tools and devices including but not limited to calipers and micrometers.
• Good verbal and written communication skills to operate in both individual and team environments.
• Capable of reading mechanical drawings and interpret dimensional tolerances.
• Adaptable to process and procedure changes.
• Capacity to convert from English to metric measurements.
• Ability to meet department standards for productivity and quality.
• Computer literacy using MS Office, Outlook, and ERP software is…