Scientific Glass Blower

Thorlabs; Newton (NJ); On-site; USD 36,506 - 46,149; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) plan

Generous PTO package

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

A leading photonics company in Newton, NJ, seeks a skilled glass worker to setup and operate a glass working operation for laser applications, focusing on optical windows and glass cells. Candidates should have at least 3 years of relevant experience and possess strong glass blowing skills. The role involves maintaining vacuum systems and partnering with design engineers to ensure manufacturability. Competitive hourly pay ranges from $26.50 to $33.50 based on experience. Comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision insurance, and more.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience in making scientific glass cells or similar.
• Ability to work independently and adapt in dynamic environments.

Responsibilities

• Setup and operate a glass working operation to create glass cells.
• Create optical windows and glass to metal seals.
• Maintain a vacuum system for filling reference cells.

Skills

Glass Blowing

Glass Lathe

Strong Communication Skills

Flexibility and Adaptability

Materials Knowledge of Glass

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Tools

MS Office

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 will setup and operate a glass working operation to make glass cells for use in laser applications. The primary material will be borosilicate glass and quartz along with some more exotic glass window materials. Highly desirable is the ability to make glass to metal seals, create T intersections, flanges, and be able to attach laser grade windows without distortion of the surface flatness in the CA of the window. They will also operate and maintain a vacuum system capable of filling reference cells with a variety of gasses and metals. In addition, the successful candidate will become a key contributor to MBU by spending 20% of their time in an engineering or operations capacity.

Essential Job Functions

• General Glass Blowing Skills and Knowledge of Glass
• Create Glass Cells with T intersections, flanges, and optical windows
• Create Glass to Metal Seals is a Plus
• Operation of a Glass Lathe
• Create reference cells with gasses and metals
• Partner with Design Engineers to Ensure Manufacturability of the Cell

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.

Physical Activities: Activities consistent with glass cell manufacturing which could involve sitting or standing for long durations and/or performing repetitious work. Exerts up to 50 lbs. of force occasionally. The noise level in the work environment is consistent moderate.

Requirements

Experience

• Minimum 3 years of experience in making scientific glass cells or similar

Education

• High School diploma or equivalent

Specialized Knowledge and Skills

• Glass Blowing
• Glass Lathe
• Materials Knowledge of Glass
• MS Office
• Ability to Work Independently
• Strong Communication Skills
• Flexibility and Adaptability in a Fast-Paced and Dynamic Environment
• Strong Commitment to Quality and Customer Service

Hourly pay range for this position is $26.50 - $33.50 depending on experience.

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.