CNC Machinist

Thorlabs; Newton (NJ); On-site; USD 35,817 - 49,593; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Company-paid life insurance

401(k)

Generous PTO package

Tuition reimbursement

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Thorlabs in Newton, NJ is seeking a CNC Machinist for their manufacturing team. This full-time role involves setting up and operating CNC machinery, ensuring high-quality production of precision components.

The ideal candidate will have 3+ years of CNC machining experience and be able to interpret blueprints. Benefits include medical and dental insurance, a 401(k), and generous PTO.

Join Thorlabs for a collaborative work culture and opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of CNC machining experience.
• Experience performing machine setups and operating CNC equipment.
• Ability to read blueprints and understand GD&T principles.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC milling and turning equipment.
• Load, run, edit, and troubleshoot CNC programs.
• Inspect finished components using precision measurement tools.

Skills

CNC machining

Blueprint reading

Troubleshooting

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Education

CNC certification or trade school education

Tools

Haas controls

Fanuc controls

Virtual Gibbs

DNC systems

Job description

At a Glance

Company: Thorlabs
Location: Newton, NJ (on-site)
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: $26–$36 per hour (based on experience)
Shift: Day Shift | Monday–Friday | 5:45 AM–2:15 PM
Overtime: As needed
Experience Level: Mid-Level | 3–5+ years CNC machining experience
Work Authorization: Must be authorized to work in the United States

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Why This Role Exists

Thorlabs continues to expand the precision components, instruments, and systems that support scientific discovery around the world. This role exists to support growing manufacturing demands and ensure high-quality production of precision‑machined components used across advanced photonics technologies.

As a CNC Machinist at Thorlabs, you’ll play a key role in producing highly precise parts that support research, innovation, and technologies shaping the future. You'll work in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment where quality, craftsmanship, and problem‑solving matter.

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The Work You'll Be Doing

In this role, you will:

• Set up and operate CNC milling and turning equipment
• Load, run, edit, and troubleshoot CNC programs as needed
• Machine precision tools, fixtures, and production components to tight tolerances
• Read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, and dimensional specifications
• Verify workholding, tooling setups, and machine offsets
• Inspect finished components using precision measurement tools
• Troubleshoot machining issues and make adjustments to maintain quality
• Support continuous workflow and on‑time production requirements
• Perform routine machine maintenance and basic repairs
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment

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Machines, Controls & Software

You’ll work with equipment and systems such as:

Machines:

• CNC milling equipment
• CNC turning equipment
• Precision production machinery and fixturing systems

Controls:

• Haas
• Fanuc

Software / Programming:

• Virtual Gibbs
• G-code / M-code editing
• DNC systems

Inspection Equipment:

• Calipers
• Micrometers
• Precision measurement tools
• Inspection equipment for first-article and in-process verification

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Materials You’ll Work With

Depending on production needs, machinists may work with:

• Aluminum
• Stainless steel
• Precision metals and specialty materials
• Components requiring complex geometries and tight tolerances

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What We’re Looking For

Required:

• 3+ years of CNC machining experience
• Experience performing machine setups and operating CNC equipment
• Ability to read blueprints and understand GD&T principles
• Strong understanding of tooling, offsets, and inspection techniques
• Ability to troubleshoot machining and dimensional issues
• Strong work ethic and attention to detail
• Team-oriented with a commitment to quality and safety

Preferred (Not Required):

• CNC certification or trade school education
• Experience with Haas and Fanuc controls
• Virtual Gibbs experience
• Manual G-code/M-code editing experience
• DNC system familiarity
• Prototyping experience
• Lean manufacturing or setup reduction experience

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Why Machinists Like Working Here

Machinists choose Thorlabs because:

• Work on products that support real scientific innovation
• Stable, growing company with over 35 years of success
• Collaborative culture built around Respect, Trust, Innovation, Accountability, and Empathy
• Clean, professional manufacturing environment
• Strong emphasis on employee growth and contributions
• Opportunities to expand technical skills and grow internally
• Team environment where ideas and problem-solving are valued

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Pay, Benefits & Schedule

Pay Range: $26–$36/hour DOE

Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Company-paid life insurance
• 401(k)
• Generous PTO package
• Tuition reimbursement
• Career development opportunities

Schedule:

Monday–Friday
5:45 AM–2:15 PM

Overtime: As needed