Quality Technician I

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 exists to effectively assure vendor & manufacturing compliance to Thorlabs ISO9001 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, and lenses as well as mechanical components used in conjunction with optical components. Visual surface quality inspections are often performed under 100 watt bulb in low lit room. 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.

Essential Job Functions include the following, but are not limited to:

• Identify non-conformances through specified inspection methods.
• Ability to perform extremely detailed visual inspections on intricate and delicate parts occasionally performed under microscopes.
• Inspections are performed efficiently, with attention to detail.
• Measurement metrics are reported to keep track of efficiency and quality.
• Maintain proper records in our Manufacturing Database.
• Low friction interface to peers/vendors/others in interaction with regards to inspection.
• Measuring dimensions of optics with calipers and comparing them to manufacturing drawings.

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.

Physical Activities:

Work may be active, could stand or sit for long durations and/or perform repetitious work at times. The 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 at times. Must 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.

Requirements

Experience:

• Minimum of 1 year of manufacturing experience preferred.

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent or equivalent work experience.

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Ability to learn, understand, and effectively apply sampling plans.
• Skilled in the use of handheld 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 imperial to metric measurements.
• Ability to meet department standards for productivity and quality.
• Computer literacy using MS Office, Outlook, and ERP software is mandatory.
• Must have the ability to cross train in all areas of the department, including but not limited to visual and dimensional inspection, data entry, laser engravers, and metrology equipment.
• High attention to detail.

The hourly rate for this position is  $20.50 - $21.00  D.O.E.

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.

Benefits

Thorlabs offers a complete benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid life insurance, a generous PTO package, a 401(k) plan, and tuition reimbursement just to name a few.