Test Engineer 1

Test Engineer I

Thorlabs · Jessup, United States · Full-time · Posted 2026-11-05

Salary: USD 72,000–100,000

Workplace: on_site

Department: US - TQE/Thorlabs Quantum Electronics

Description

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 developing test systems and releasing them to production. It will require design, assembly, and troubleshooting of specialized hardware in support of automated manufacturing systems and procedures. It will also involve extensive software development of windows-based applications to automate the test and characterization of new product. Test Engineers work directly with electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, assembly personnel, and other electro-optic engineers to ensure that designs and manufacturing techniques yield products which meet the customer’s specifications.

• Conceptualize and design electro-optic test systems and fixtures.

• Development of robust software applications to automate measurement and tracking of the product.

• Prototype, develop, test & qualify new test systems for use in manufacturing.

• Create budgets and schedules for these new developments.

• Maintain documentation throughout the system development process.

• Create assembly and test work instructions, train personnel.

• Specify & purchase all parts and equipment required; interact with vendors.

Requirements

Experience:

• 2 - 5 years of experience (or education equivalent) in similar position

• Experience using Python, .Net, and/or LabVIEW to automate various pieces of test equipment and/or motion control.

• Experience with optoelectronic circuits and optical test equipment

• Hands-on experience in the photonics industry, laser or physics lab is a plus.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree: Software/Electrical/Mechanical/Optical Systems Engineering, Physics/Applied Physics, Computer Science or related field(s) is required.

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Problem resolution skills for debugging new designs and assemblies.

• Manual dexterity to assemble and align precision opto-mechanical systems.

• Understanding of Python, LabVIEW, or .Net and related SW development environments

• Tool and fixture making experience is a plus.

• Soldering / Circuit Design Experience is a plus.

• High attention to details

• Flexibility/adaptability in a fast-paced & dynamic environment

• Ability to function autonomously with little direction.

• Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment

The estimated pay range for this role is $72,000 - $ 100,000 annually

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.

Apply

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