General Helper

General Helper - 2nd Shift

Thorlabs · Newton, United States · Full-time · Posted 2026-10-06

Workplace: on_site

Department: US - MBU/Mechanical Business Unit

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.

Purpose of the Position

The position performs a variety of technical operations and exhibits exceptional quality and quantity. The General Helpers position is a critical or key component in the success and the flow of the machine shop. The top priority is to support the CNC Machinists in any way that they can. Works under general supervision. 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. Hours for this position are 3:45p.m. - 12:15a.m. Monday - Friday. This position offers a shift differential of $3.50 per hour

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

• Responsible for general maintenance such as sweeping, mopping, emptying trash cans, etc.
• Responsible for efficiently unloading trucks, cut stock, and deliver material to specific machines
• Machines various parts on manual equipment with guidance from set-up crew
• Runs production parts on CNC machines, deburrs and operates laser engraver
• Finisher- tumbles machined parts, polishes extrusions, bead blasting
• Complies with safety regulations and maintains clean and orderly work areas.

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.

Requirements

Qualifications

Experience:

• Minimum 1 year of experience in a maintenance shop or manufacturing environment.

Education:

• High School diploma or equivalent

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong sense of ethical conduct
• Strong ability to take initiative/ownership
• Strong ability to work well in a group atmosphere, and comply with high quality standards.
• Strong ability to shift from one task to another to address changing production priorities.
• Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form.

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.

Hourly rate for this position is $18.00

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.

Apply

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