Seasonal Help

Thorlabs; Goleta (CA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Company paid life insurance

Generous PTO

401(k) plan

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Thorlabs in Goleta, CA, seeks a Seasonal Help engineer to research and develop photonic products and systems. This entry-level role focuses on hands-on nanofabrication and data analysis to support core photonics goals.

You'll work in a fast-paced environment, collaborating with a small team to build, test, and iterate photonic devices while gaining practical experience in nanofabrication, mask layouts, and coding.

Qualifications

• Entry level position in photonics engineering R&D.
• Bachelor’s degree in progress or higher in Engineering, Physics, or related field.
• Working knowledge photonic device physics.
• Working knowledge of nanofabrication techniques and tools.
• Working knowledge of mask layout software.
• Working knowledge of writing computer code.
• Excellent statistical data analysis and problem solving abilities.
• Effectively reports progress and problems through written or oral reports.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment.

Responsibilities

• Using nanofabrication facilities, builds photonic systems which includes integration of mechanical, electrical, and optical components with active or passive photonic devices.
• Performs process flow and mask layout of photonic nanofabricated devices.
• Performs photonic research activities to meet company goals.
• Assists test reports by collecting, analyzing and summarizing measurement data of photonic devices.

Skills

Photonic device physics

Nanofabrication techniques

Mask layout software

Programming

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in progress or higher

Tools

Mask layout software

Nanofabrication equipment

Coding basics

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.

Purpose of the Position

The Seasonal Help position researches and develops photonic products and systems. Although the location of the position is in Goleta, CA, from time to time it may be required to undertake duties at other Thorlabs locations or photonics academic conferences.

Essential Job Functions include the following, but are not limited to:

• Using nanofabrication facilities, builds photonic systems which includes integration of mechanical, electrical, and optical components with active or passive photonic devices.
• Performs process flow and mask layout of photonic nanofabricated devices.
• Performs photonic research activities to meet company goals.
• Assists test reports by collecting, analyzing and summarizing measurement data of photonic devices.

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.

Qualifications

Experience:

• Entry level position in photonics engineering R&D.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in progress or higher in Engineering, Physics, or related field.

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Working knowledge photonic device physics.
• Working knowledge of nanofabrication techniques and tools.
• Working knowledge of mask layout software.
• Working knowledge of writing computer code.
• Excellent statistical data analysis and problem solving abilities.
• Effectively reports progress and problems through written or oral reports.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment
• Strong innovation skill.
• Flexibility/adaptability in a fast-paced & dynamic environment

Hourly Pay for this position is $25.00.

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 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.