Thin Film Coating Technician II

Thorlabs; Newton (NJ); On-site; USD 26,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid time off

401(k) plan

Tuition reimbursement

Life insurance

Job summary

Thorlabs in Newton, NJ is seeking a manufacturing technician to support the production of photonics components. You will work in a team to prepare materials, operate coating and measurement equipment, and ensure product quality.

Applicants should have at least 4 years of manufacturing experience and a high school diploma. Experience with vacuum deposition, metrology devices, and basic computer skills is preferred. This is a full‑time, on‑site position with opportunities for training and growth.

Qualifications

• Teamwork and high quality standards are expected.
• Good work ethic and strong attention to detail.
• Ability to shift between tasks to meet production priorities.
• Basic mathematical knowledge and MS Office proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Work in a production area with moderately difficult processes.
• Prepare raw materials and set up for processing.
• Load, unload, and operate thin film coating vacuum deposition equipment.
• Measure parts using metrology devices such as microscopes and spectrophotometers.
• Participate in training of less experienced team members and cross-train across areas.
• Maintain records in the Manufacturing Database and support continuous improvement.

Skills

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Basic math

Microsoft Office

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Tools

Vacuum coating equipment

Spectrophotometer

Microscope

FTIR

Job description

Thorlabs is pleased to play a role in advancing science through the components, instruments, and systems we design and manufacture. We believe that science and innovation have great potential to improve the world around us and are committed to advancing photonics (i.e., light-based) technologies that positively impact our customers, employees, and communities. Via educational outreach and more sustainable business practices, we continuously invest in a brighter future. We recognize that each of our employees is a unique individual with the ability to contribute to our success and seek to find great people who will thrive in our fun, fast-paced culture.

This position works among a team of individuals manufacturing Photonics products for our customers with the occasional assistance of experienced team members. The role entails such functions as kitting, operating machines, and in process measurements. 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:

• Able to work in a production area with medium degree of difficulty processes.
• Prepare raw materials and work for processing.
• Perform daily maintenance and upkeep of assigned machines in area.
• Intermediate operation to load, unload, and operate thin film coating vacuum deposition equipment.
• Utilization of such technologies as resistive, electron beam, ion assist, and sputtering to work on glass and crystal materials to produce coatings such as anti-reflection, beamsplitters, mirrors, and filters.
• Visual, optical, and mechanical measurement of parts using metrology devices such as hand tools, microscopes, spectrophotometers, FTIRs, and transmission setups.
• Highlight issues and participate in troubleshooting efforts.
• Assist with training less experienced team members.
• Cross trains to be able to work in multiple production areas.
• 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. 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 of 4 years of manufacturing experience and 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.

The hourly rate for this position is$19.32 - $24.00 D.O.E.

Thorlabs values its diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All q ualified 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.

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.