Assembly Technician I

Thorlabs; Newton (NJ); On-site; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Company-paid life insurance

Generous PTO

401(k) plan

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Thorlabs in Newton, NJ is seeking a manufacturing associate to assemble components, kit materials, and perform basic metrology under supervision. You will support batch preparation, visual and dimensional checks, and product packaging for downstream processes.

The role emphasizes team collaboration, attention to detail, and adherence to quality and safety standards in a fast-paced production environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of manufacturing experience or related technical education.
• Basic math and reading of work instructions.

Responsibilities

• Assemble products in a production area using mechanical fasteners and epoxies.
• Prepare batches by kitting components and materials.
• Perform visual and dimensional inspection with metrology tools.
• Maintain manufacturing records in the database.
• Follow safety procedures and 5S practices.

Skills

Teamwork

Work ethic

Attention to detail

Multi-tasking

Basic math

MS Office

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

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, 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 with the assistance of experienced team members. The role entails such functions as kitting, assembling, and in process measurements.

Essential Job Functions

• Able to work in a production area with low degree of difficulty processes
• Prepare for batch by kitting necessary components and preparing such materials as epoxies
• Basic assembly of products using mechanical fasteners and various epoxies
• Introduction to visual and mechanical measurement of parts using metrology devices such as eye loupes, microscopes, calipers, micrometers, and indicators
• Perform visual alignment of components using equipment such as alignment jigs, visual indicators, and laser test stations
• Package products to be ready for the next process step or final customer
• 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 a goal of zero scrap or rework
• Maintain proper records in our Manufacturing Database
• Participate in Continuous Improvement efforts
• Comply with the company safety program and maintain a clean and organized work area

Additional Responsibilities

• 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.

Requirements

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 of 1 year of manufacturing experience or related technical education.

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent.

Specialized Knowledge and Skills

• Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment and comply with high quality standards
• Good work ethic
• Strong attention to detail
• Strong ability to shift from one task to another to address changing production priorities
• Basic mathematic knowledge
• Proficient in basic computer skills such as Microsoft Office
• 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 hourly rate for this position is $20.00

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 identify 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

• 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.