Assembler

Thorlabs; Newton (NJ); On-site; USD 21,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

401(k) plan

Generous PTO

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Thorlabs in Newton, NJ is seeking a detail‑oriented assembler to join our LEAN manufacturing team. You will assemble and package diverse components, inspect finished products, and help meet production timelines while upholding safety and quality standards.

A high school diploma and at least 1 year of similar experience are preferred. You must understand written work instructions and thrive in a collaborative, fast‑paced environment with opportunities to grow.

Qualifications

• Must understand written work instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and precision.
• Able to work in a team and follow quality standards.
• Ability to shift between tasks as production priorities change.

Responsibilities

• Assemble and package components and products, including cleaning, inspecting and testing.
• Meet production timelines outlined on orders.
• Understand and follow written instructions; seek clarification when needed.
• Assist in inventory counts and notify supervisor of low stock.
• Maintain a safe, clean work environment in compliance with policies.

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Reading comprehension

Adaptability

Education

High School diploma

Job description

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, Thorlabscontributes 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 working with mechanical products for our customers. The position is responsible for assembling and packaging. As part of our LEAN Manufacturing business strategy, the position is located within a work "cell" assembling a variety of components ranging in complexity throughout the day. 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:

• Must be able to understand written work instructions for a wide range of products to properly assemble the final product to the highest of quality standards and with zero scrap or rework.
• Assemble and package components and products of varying size and complexity that includes cleaning, inspecting and testing of assembled components and assemblies.
• Meets the expected assembly timelines that are outlined on the production orders
• Ask questions when instructions are not understood or clear
• Assists in inventory Cycle counting as needed and notify supervisor of low stock levels.
• Performs any combination of the above duties from the functions above. Cross-train on various functions in order to provide flexibility and support across production operations.
• Must maintain a safe and clean working environment through compliance with procedures, policies and regulations.

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.

Experience:

• Minimum 1 year of experience in a similar position preferred.

Education:

• High School diploma or equivalent

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Must be able to understand written work instructions.
• Strong attention to detail
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment and comply with high quality standards.
• Strong ability to shift from one task to another to address changing production priorities.

Pay rate for this position is $18.00 per hour

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.

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..