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.

The Engineering Technician I will work as part of a team of engineers within the Laser Systems and Technology Business Unit to develop, manufacture, test, and troubleshoot laser systems and accessories. This position will support research and development activities, assist with product testing and evaluation, and perform hands-on manufacturing and assembly of advanced products. The Engineering Technician I will also be responsible for creating, updating, and maintaining accurate assembly and test instructions to support consistent, efficient, and high-quality manufacturing. 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

• Use sensitive production equipment such as fiber splicers and optical test and measurement instruments.

• Support new product introduction (NPI) efforts by working with product engineers to build and evaluate prototypes while maintaining primary responsibility for manufacturing and testing production products. Produce high quality products that meet established quality standards and production schedules.

• 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

• Maintain clean and organized production and laboratory work areas. Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to support production objectives and new product introductions.

Requirements

Experience:

• Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience in semiconductor, laser, or optical system production or R&D.

• Requirement may be waived for holder of a bachelor’s degree.

Education:

• Minimum High School Diploma

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• General understanding of basic photonics concepts

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

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, assembly instructions, wiring diagrams, work instructions, and test procedures.

• Experience with hand tools, microscopes, and electronic and optical test and measurement equipment

• Proficiency in general computer use and Microsoft Office

• Ability to produce and maintain documentation for production and R&D processes

• 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

The estimated hourly rate for this role is $26.80 to $33.50

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. 

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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.