Photonics Support Engineer I
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 17, 2026. First seen by Alion on Mar 4, 2026. Thorlabs scores B on the Alion truth index.
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.
The Photonics Support Engineer I is responsible for providing entry level technical support by solving problems, troubleshooting, and working with customers to guide them to the best possible product solutions for their applications and experiments. The position works with several other Photonics Support and Design Engineers to support optics, lasers and light sources, fiber, opto-mechanics, motion control, microscope and other imaging systems, telecom instruments and more. Between onsite lab opportunities, customer interactions, tradeshows and Thorlabs manufacturing entities visits, the position can be exposed to every facet of the photonics industry.
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.
- Provide technical support via phone, web chat & e-mail to customers worldwide.
- Interface with multiple support teams around the world to implement best practices globally.
- Reproduce setups and create technical solutions in the lab.
- Demonstrate knowledge and problem-solving abilities in providing technical support to customers who purchase from our extensive product portfolio.
- Develop and provide customized solutions, assist in the design of custom products.
- Support Marketing and Sales activities by attending Tradeshows and Customer visits.
- Participate in managing the development of Thorlabs products by being part of an interactive development forum.
- Develop Marketing Materials like test data, white papers, or video for use on our website or through another distribution channel
- Develop skill in the use of test equipment to help influence the design of next generation photonics products.
- Contribute to training of new team members by sharing your unique skills.
Requirements
Experience:
- Entry level to 3 years of Photonics product and applications support experience. Will accept recent college graduate with bachelor’s degree. Lab experience with optics, mechanics, lasers, and electrical components a plus.
Education:
- BSc, MSc or PhD degree in Optics, Physics or a related Engineering field or equivalent work experience.
Specialized Knowledge and Skills:
- Knowledge of Photonics and Laser Technology via work or laboratory experience.
- Strong communication proficiency and presentation skills.
- Ability to multitask, show attention to details, and to solve multidisciplinary problems under time constraints.
- Ability to develop and communicate dept. goals in support of Thorlabs' mission and responds to all interactions in a positive manner.
- Eagerness to learn about new technologies, process, and business models.
- Work schedule may be staggered times to cover our 8am-8pm hours of operation.
- Opportunities to travel to tradeshows, other Thorlabs manufacturing facilities (foreign and domestic), and training events on and off site.
The estimated pay range for this role is $ 62,000 - $ 70,000 annually
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.