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Manufacturing Engineer I

ThorlabsNewtonPosted 8 Sept 2026

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About this role

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. The position is responsible to help oversee and improve the production process for the division, develop and teach assembly techniques, improve manufacturing process issues, solve production related problems, and promote quality throughout production and related departments.

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. The Thorlabs Advanced Photonics (TAP) Business Unit has several production departments requiring similar and specialized areas of expertise. A Manufacturing Engineer (Mfr. Engineer) would be assigned to a specific department but might be involved in projects in other departments or business units as the need arises.

These areas include (Optical Shop, Coating, Fiber Draw, Fiber Cabling, Opto-Mechanical Assembly, Metrology) Essential Job Functions for all Mfr. Engineers include the following, but are not limited to: Responsible for identifying problems and providing solutions for manufacturing issues relating to newly released products, as well as established production workflow. Plan production layouts helping to facilitate lean manufacturing and six sigma standards.

Participate in design reviews with the engineering department to help identify and discuss proper procedures and potential issues with newly developed products prior to releasing for production. Conduct training in collaboration with production personnel to continue improving on existing manufacturing and testing processes throughout the division. Interface with engineering and operations to ensure transfer to production of new product releases are in accordance with the approved release processes, requirements, and specifications.

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Collaborate with the RMA and service departments to help inspect and disposition customer returns from the field. Identify and assist in implementing root cause analysis and corrective actions to prevent future failures. Create and maintain manufacturing process documents to reflect current and future conditions. Collaborate with technicians and assembly personnel to make necessary changes or revisions to assembly, test, and alignment procedures for TAP products.

Create necessary jigs and fixtures to improve production 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 Rev Control and documentation verification. Keep current with newest manufacturing techniques within the industry and look for opportunities to implement.

Ensure production techniques and capacity scale with growing demand of products. 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 1 year of experience in a relevant engineering position, or related position in a manufacturing environment desired.

Design for Six Sigma and Lean manufacturing experience a plus. Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Physics, Engineering (Optical, Mechanical, Production, etc.), or equivalent Specialized Knowledge and Skills: Basic computer knowledge such as, but not limited to, SolidWorks, Microsoft products, and Axapta. Experience with manufacturing, configuration management, and product development in an R&D / New Product Development Environment.

Experience with quality improvement tools and techniques (i.e., Lean, Six Sigma, Process Control, and Failure Mode & Effects Analysis). Familiarity with the application of optics and/or the 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.) Strong attention to detail.

Salary range for this position is USD 71,500 - USD 94,000 depending on experienc e Other: Must be able to work on ITAR restricted projects. 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.

Source listing: workable_thorlabs

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