Thorlabs

🔎 At a Glance

Company Name: Thorlabs
Location: Newton, NJ
Shop Type: Precision Manufacturer / OEM
Industries Served: Photonics, Scientific Research, Advanced Technology, Laboratory Equipment
Typical Work: High-mix precision manufacturing with production and specialized component work
Machining Capabilities: CNC Milling, CNC Turning, Precision Component Manufacturing
Materials: Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Specialty Metals, Precision Materials
Certifications: Not specified
Shift Environment: Day Shift and 2nd Shift opportunities available

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Thorlabs is a precision manufacturer and global leader in photonics technologies headquartered in Newton, New Jersey. Founded in 1989, the company began with a simple mission: make photonics lab equipment easier to access for graduate students and researchers. Over the last 35+ years, Thorlabs has grown into a worldwide organization supporting scientific innovation through the components, instruments, and systems it designs and manufactures.

Today, Thorlabs develops products used by researchers, engineers, and technology companies across industries that rely on light-based technologies. Their work supports scientific discovery and helps enable new technologies that continue to transform the world around us.

What separates Thorlabs from many manufacturing companies is its strong focus on both innovation and people. The company operates with core values centered around Respect, Trust, Innovation, Accountability, and Empathy, creating an environment where employees are encouraged to contribute ideas, solve problems, and bring unique perspectives to the team.

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Machinists at Thorlabs work on:

Part Types:

• Precision components used in photonics systems
• Instruments and scientific equipment components
• Specialized tooling and fixtures
• Complex precision-machined parts

Production Style:

• High-mix manufacturing
• Precision production work
• Prototype and repeat manufacturing environments

Programming & Setup:

• Setup and operation responsibilities
• Machine-side program edits
• Exposure to G-code and M-code adjustments
• Collaboration with production and manufacturing teams

Materials Machined:

• Aluminum
• Stainless steel
• Specialty materials requiring precision machining techniques

Machinists who enjoy detailed work, problem-solving, and producing parts that support advanced technology tend to fit well here.

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• CNC Milling
• CNC Turning
• Precision component manufacturing
• Prototype and production machining
• Build-to-print manufacturing
• Tight-tolerance machining

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CNC Mills

• CNC milling systems supporting precision manufacturing

CNC Lathes / Turning Equipment

• CNC turning equipment
• Precision lathe systems

Controls

• Haas
• Fanuc

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CAM Software:

• Virtual Gibbs

Programming Systems:

• DNC systems
• G-code / M-code editing

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Thorlabs maintains quality standards focused on consistency, precision, and repeatability.

Machinists regularly work with:

• Precision inspection tools
• First-article inspection processes
• In-process dimensional verification
• Blueprint interpretation and GD&T
• Quality-driven manufacturing procedures

The result is a structured manufacturing environment where expectations and standards are clearly defined.

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Machinists here value:

• Stable and growing company with 35+ years of success
• Work that supports real scientific innovation
• Collaborative culture where employee ideas matter
• Modern manufacturing environment
• Opportunities to continue learning and expanding skills
• Tuition reimbursement and development opportunities
• Strong benefits package
• A workplace built around Respect, Trust, Innovation, Accountability, and Empathy

Rather than simply making parts, employees at Thorlabs help manufacture products that support researchers and technologies shaping the future.

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Thorlabs is currently hiring for:

• CNC Machinist – Day Shift (Haas / Fanuc)
• CNC Lathe Machinist – 2nd Shift (Haas / Fanuc)

👉 View current CNC machining jobs at Thorlabs