Scientific Glass Operations Manager

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 position is responsible for conceiving, design and prototyping a MBU product line. Activities include documentation, vendor management, prototyping, and transfer to manufacturing. The responsibilities include increasing the profitability of existing products, developing new products, identify areas of growth, quality, manufacturing, marketing, and sales. This position requires troubleshooting complex mechanical problems, and being committed to customer satisfaction. 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.

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

• Manages the team dedicated to the product line including but not limited to:

o Procurement of raw materials and consumables needed to support research, development, and production.

o Maintenance of the Glass Shop including Lathe, polishing, vacuum system and cutting tools

o Production of existing products and customs orders (specials)

o New product introduction (several projects at one time).

• Responsible for developing a portfolio/market level product line plan and to solicit approval from the engineering manager and MBU leader to implement the plan
• Designs new products from existing ideas, and helps team to develop new ideas based on industry experience and contact with customers and prospects
• Continuously works to create faster paths to market with new products
• Responsible for entire product life cycle.
• Serves as the internal and external point of contact for your product offering, occasionally working with the sales channel and key customers.
• Documents the product line including design, testing, manufacturing and quality control
• Works with marketing communications to define the go-to-market strategy, helping them understand the product positioning, key benefits, and target customer.
• Handles all changes and problems related to product assigned.
• Communicates with customers to understand the needs of the market, problems, and subsequently develop innovative solutions.
• Develops OEM opportunities.
• Expert Glass Blowing Skills and Knowledge of Glass

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: The employee must frequently lift or move objects up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift or move objects up to 25 pounds. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Requirements:
Experience:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in the photonics industry, laser or physics lab.
• Design for Six Sigma (DFFS) and Lean Manufacturing experience a plus.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, related field, or equivalent experience

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Conceptualize, Design, Build, and Implement Product Testing Protocols
• Familiarity with dimensional tolerances and inspection techniques
• Flexibility/adaptability in a fast-paced & dynamic environment.
• Strong attention to detail
• Strong innovation skills and business acumen.
• Experience using SolidWorks 2D and 3D Modeling Application
• Strong communication skills and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated experience in working in a team environment.
• Problem resolution skills applied to providing solutions involving new design and assembly techniques, technologies, and concepts is a must
• Demonstrated experience in customer centric environment
• Familiarity with Machine shop CNC and manual Milling and Turning and experience preferred
• Tool and fixture making experience a plus
• Ability to function autonomously with little direction/works well independently of others.
• Lab View and test automation experience preferred

Salary range for this position is $76,000 - $105,000 depending on experience

Organizational Relationships Direct Reports: All Design Engineering and technicians of the product line report up through this position. They have performance management and hiring responsibilities for all direct reports

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 identity 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..