Engineering Technician I

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 Engineering Technician will work on a team of engineers that is focused on process control and improvement in a manufacturing environment. This is done through hands on troubleshooting of manufacturing issues, conducting controlled experiments, as well as documentation and training on standardized procedures. The location of this position will be in Jessup, MD.

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

• Assemble and test lasers and laser systems using both production and engineering work instructions.
• Generate and revise controlled documents such as work or assembly instructions, specification sheets, and product manuals.
• Perform training of new or revised controlled documentation for production teams.
• Use sensitive production equipment such as optical test and measurement instruments, laser welders, pigtail stations, and fiber splicers.
• Implement product and process revisions through engineering change orders.
• Recommend design and procedure changes for continuous improvement to product quality, performance, and manufacturability.
• Troubleshoot and solve hardware and software issues with production equipment.
• Document product failures and returns, recurring failures, service issues, and product limitations.
• Perform diagnostics and reviews of equipment to track performance and maintain quality control; ensure production equipment is properly maintained.
• Report supply chain issues that are affecting production.

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.

Requirements

Experience:

• Minimum 2 years in semiconductor, laser, or optical system production or R&D.
• Requirement may be waived for holder of a bachelor’s degree.

Education:

• Associate degree or higher in engineering, technology, or physical science; or US military electronics training, or equivalent of working experience.

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Ability to handle critical and fragile optical components and sensitive equipment

• Experience with hand tools, microscopes, and electronic and optical test and measurement equipment
• Proficiency in general computer use and Microsoft Office
• Strong ability to shift from one task to another to address changing production priorities
• Experience with optical fibers, hand soldering, laser welding, and optical fiber pigtail and splicing equipment is preferred

Other:

As a condition of employment for this position, the successful candidate must be able to submit documentation establishing U.S. Person status (e.g. a U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, Lawful Permanent Resident, Workers granted Refugee status, or Workers granted Asylum) upon hire.

Hourly pay range for this position is $27.00 - $31.00 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 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

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.