Manufacturing Technician I

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.

Purpose of the Position

As a manufacturing technician in the Imaging Systems Business Unit, you will work among a team of individuals developing, manufacturing, and troubleshooting complex opto-mechanical and electrical assemblies for our customers. Day-to-day activities will require working in a fast-paced environment within the manufacturing department, as well as assisting with various R&D and testing activities. The location of this position will be in Dulles, VA.  From time-to-time, travel may be required both domestic and internationally to customer sites or other Thorlabs locations for installations and training activities. 

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

• Must be able to understand written work instructions, mechanical drawings, and schematics for a wide range of products to properly assemble and test the final product to the highest of quality standards and with zero scrap or rework.
• Assemble life science and microscopy products of varying sizes and complexity.  Includes cleaning, inspecting, and testing of complex sub-assemblies and final assemblies.
• Notify engineering of conditions requiring more complex resolution, recurring failures, potential service issues, or identified new product limitations. Make recommendations for potential design or procedural changes.
• Proper handling of critical and fragile optical components.
• Perform system diagnostics and review of production units to determine operating performance and potential causes or areas of quality control failures.
• Diagnose hardware and software problems, run appropriate computer programs, analyze data, isolate areas of potential or actual problems and determine any required modifications to suit current requirements and resolve problems.
• Complete projects according to engineering instructions and technical manuals using knowledge of electronic, mechanical, and optical systems or components.  
• Maintain a safe and clean working environment through compliance with procedures, policies and regulations.

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:

• Minimum 2 years of experience in a manufacturing, engineering, or field service environment.

Education:

• High School diploma or equivalent, preferably some further education in a related field.

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Self-starting individual with a strong attention to detail.
• Strong ability to work well in a fast-paced group atmosphere, as well as individually, and comply with high quality standards.
• Ability to multi-task, and to shift from one task to another when required addressing changing production or field service priorities.
• Must be proficient in reading engineering drawings and processes, familiarity with standard parts and hand tools.
• Basic soldering skills
• Must have some proficiency working with computers and Microsoft Office.

Other:

• Potential ability and willingness to travel both domestically and internationally to customer sites.

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.