What is the job?
We’re looking for an Engineering Technician to support the R&D engineering team in day-to-day tasks. The role will require multiple skills to work collaboratively with team members to support them with tasks such as inspections, testing, soldering, 3D printing, use of the manual machining equipment, and lab organisation.
Working Hours: Monday to Friday 8.00 am – 4.30 pm
Who we are?
Thorlabs is a global, industry leading optical technologies company. We are experts in the design and manufacture or a range of innovative photonics products. We use these products in manufacturing and research, from fibre optics to piezo motors. We are the gold standard with optics laboratories worldwide. There are now 22 facilities across the world in 9 countries. Here in Ely, we are responsible for the Motion Control and Optical Tables product line.
Where you will be working?
Our purpose-built facility is just 12 miles from Cambridge, within the beautiful mediaeval city of Ely. There are train and bus links to Ely from Kings Cross and Liverpool Street London, and our site is within distance of Ely train station and Ely Bus station.
Requirements
What is essential to us…
* HNC in Electrical (preferred) or Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience.
* Experience with precise soldering techniques and assembly of electrical components.
* Hands-on experience with 3D printers and familiarity with 3D printing materials and software.
* Good understanding of metrology and use measuring tools and equipment
* Experience with manual mills and lathes for machining and modifying prototype parts.
* Surface mount (SMT) PCB assembly
* Ability to work in a multidisciplinary project team and help to drive projects through to completion
* Ability to multitask, time manage and work independently
* Ability to identify and resolve problems quickly
* Adhering to core values and driven positive attitude
* Positive contribution to multi-departmental initiatives and process improvements
* Receptive to new challenges and expanding current knowledge.
What we would like you to do/ to see…
* Conduct tests on prototypes (e.g. PCB tests or mechanical parts), ensuring they meet design specifications and perform under intended conditions.
* Use manual mills and lathes to modify prototype parts and assist with machining tasks as required by the engineering team.
* Oversee and maintain the 3D printing area, performing routine maintenance on 3D printers.
* Assist in the documentation and reporting of test results, inspections, and modifications made to prototypes and parts.
* Take care of calibrated measurement equipment, ensuring up to date calibration and documentation is maintained.
* Perform precision surface mount (SMT) and through hole PCB soldering, cable assemblies.
* Manage housekeeping and organization of the engineering lab to maintain a clean, safe, and efficient work environment.
* Perform first article inspections (FAI) on new parts, documenting and reporting findings to the engineering and purchasing team.
* Support mechanical design changes by fabricating parts and making necessary adjustments.
* Work closely with the engineering team to provide feedback on design performance and quality.
What will you get?
At Thorlabs there are lots of opportunities for inhouse customised training and development that accelerates your career progression. We have free onsite parking, free refreshments, as well as an entertainment area in our large canteen for your enjoyment.
And the benefits are?
Competitive Salary to attract the best, plus an excellent benefits package including pension, health care, 25 days holiday plus public holidays.
Job Reference: THOR-VC-1143
This is a rolling campaign, so we will actively interview applicants. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.
We welcome applications from persons who are over 18 years old.
*This is a legal requirement, further information is here School leaving age - GOV.UK (
This role does not currently meet the UK Visas and Immigration criteria for obtaining a Skilled Worker Visa we are therefore unable to accept applications that require employer sponsorship in order to obtain a Skilled Worker Visa.
We would encourage all internal applicants to inform their line managers of their interest in this position.
Benefits
-Contributed Pension Scheme -Group Life Cover -Private Health Care -Group Income Protection & more.
Please apply through the Apply for this job button or send a copy of your CV along with a covering letter and your salary expectations to: Human Resources at Thorlabs Ltd, 204 Lancaster Way Business Park, Ely, Cambs, CB6 3NX or e-mail recruitment@thorlabs.com.
In line with the requirements of the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006, all applicants must have a valid permission to enter or remain in the UK with no condition that prevents them from working in the UK. Documented evidence of such permission will be required from candidates as part of the recruitment process.