Learning & Development Trainer

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.

At Thorlabs, we advance photonics and laser innovation by investing in our people. We are seeking a Learning & Development Trainer to design, deliver, and continuously improve employee learning programs that build skills, support business objectives, and promote a culture of continuous learning. This role partners closely with business leaders and HR to assess training needs and deliver high-quality learning solutions across the organization.

This position is based in Newton, NJ, with occasional travel to other Thorlabs locations and technical conferences (up to 25%).

What you will do:

Training Delivery & Program Management

• Design and deliver training programs, including onboarding, leadership, technical, safety, and professional development
• Partner with managers and leaders to identify learning needs related to new processes, systems, and organizational change
• Select and facilitate effective training methods (in-person, virtual, group, or e-learning)

Content & Systems

• Develop and maintain training materials, job aids, and online content
• Manage learning content in the Learning Management System (LMS)
• Maintain a centralized library of training resources

Evaluation & Continuous Improvement

• Track training completion and learning outcomes
• Collect feedback and assess program effectiveness
• Use data and insights to recommend and implement improvements

Collaboration & Vendor Management

• Partner with internal stakeholders and HR teams, including global groups
• Coordinate with external trainers, consultants, and subject matter experts as needed

Requirements:
Experience & Education

• 2–4 years of experience in learning and development, corporate training, instructional design, or education
• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Human Resources, Organizational Development, Business, or a related field preferred

Skills & Knowledge

• Strong facilitation and presentation skills
• Knowledge of adult learning principles and instructional design
• Experience with learning management systems (LMS) and HRIS platforms
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Word, Excel) and virtual training tools (Zoom, Teams)
• Excellent communication, organization, and project management skills
• Ability to analyze training data and report on program effectiveness

Other

• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
• Flexible and adaptable in a dynamic environment
• Willingness to travel as needed

The salary range for this position is $67,000- $83,000 D.O.E.

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.