Engineering Technician - 1143

Thorlabs
Ely
1 month ago
Create job alert

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 hereSchool leaving age - GOV.UK (www.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

1d9df0756b97de3ca3cff2432a066cfb.png-Contributed Pension Scheme5161fae0b975b7364228077b183258ac.png-Group Life Coverb6a6454e1f80e14fb65c722973e86d9f.png-Private Health Caree850ec11c8473c8e62469f16a60f3ef3.png-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 .
2d95928a5b7ab12772dceb2f6f4ae82b.png

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.

Related Jobs

View all jobs

Engineering Technician Apprenticeship - Level 3

Sr. Mechanical Engineering Technician

Level 3 Mechatronics Apprentice - Heating & Current Drive

Mechanical Technician / Senior Technician

Quality Technician

Apprentice Production Technician

Get the latest insights and jobs direct. Sign up for our newsletter.

By subscribing you agree to our privacy policy and terms of service.

Industry Insights

Discover insightful articles, industry insights, expert tips, and curated resources.

Oxford Instruments Quantum‑Computing Jobs in 2025: Your Complete UK Guide to Building the Hardware of the Quantum Era

Before a superconducting qubit ever executes a gate, it must be cooled to 10 millikelvin, shielded from stray photons and measured with sub‑attoamp precision. For more than 65 years, Oxford Instruments (OI) has supplied the cryostats, magnets and nano‑analysis tools that make cutting‑edge physics possible. Today, its NanoScience division powers quantum labs at Google, IBM, IQM and UK‑RI’s National Quantum Computing Centre. From Proteox dilution refrigerators to Triton X dry systems and Teslatron superconducting magnets, OI hardware is the quiet hero behind nearly every major quantum breakthrough. With a global headcount of ~2,200 and annual revenue topping £450 m, Oxford Instruments continues to scale—especially in quantum‑tech manufacturing, field service and R&D. The careers portal lists roles across engineering, physics, software and customer success. Whether you want to design ultra‑low‑noise amplifiers, debug fridge wiring at 20 mK or model spin‑qubit devices, this guide explains how to land an Oxford Instruments quantum‑computing job in 2025.

World Quantum Day: Why 14 April Matters for Quantum Computing and Your Career

In recent years, quantum computing has emerged from the halls of academia to become one of the most talked-about technology frontiers. As research intensifies and companies compete to create more powerful quantum processors, the field is rapidly expanding—promising a new era of innovation in drug discovery, materials science, secure communications, and beyond. Each year, on 14 April, the global community marks World Quantum Day, a celebration designed to raise public awareness, foster collaboration, and highlight the career possibilities within quantum science and technology. For job seekers, World Quantum Day offers an invaluable opportunity to learn about cutting-edge developments, discover burgeoning roles, and connect with a network of experts who are eager to bring fresh talent into the industry. This blog post will delve into what makes World Quantum Day significant, why quantum computing is such a big deal, and how you can leverage this yearly celebration to advance—or begin—your career in this transformative field. We’ll also explore the UK’s rapidly growing quantum landscape, the main skills employers look for, and the best ways to stay connected through specialised platforms and LinkedIn communities. Whether you’re a seasoned professional ready for a new challenge, a recent graduate aiming to make your mark, or simply fascinated by the potential of quantum technology, this guide will equip you with the insights you need to seize emerging opportunities. Read on to discover how World Quantum Day can be a springboard for your quantum career and why Quantum Computing Jobs is the ideal hub to find your next role.

Quantum Computing vs. Quantum Cryptography vs. Quantum Networking Jobs: Which Path Should You Choose?

Over the past few years, Quantum Computing has rapidly evolved from a theoretical pursuit to a frontier field promising to transform cryptography, chemistry simulations, optimisation challenges, and more. As governments and tech giants alike invest billions in quantum research, the job market for quantum specialists continues to expand. Yet, for many aspiring professionals, the distinctions among Quantum Computing, Quantum Cryptography, and Quantum Networking can be unclear. Which domain should you focus on if you’re browsing Quantum Computing jobs at www.quantumcomputingjobs.co.uk? And what exactly do these roles entail? This article clarifies these three interlinked yet distinct areas. We’ll explore how Quantum Computing harnesses quantum-mechanical phenomena to perform computations that outstrip classical solutions, how Quantum Cryptography secures communication using unbreakable quantum principles, and how Quantum Networking links quantum systems to enable distributed quantum information protocols. You’ll gain insight into shared and divergent skill sets, job titles and salary ranges, real-world applications, and tips on choosing a career path that aligns with your background and interests. Whether you’re a physicist, mathematician, computer scientist, or engineer, there’s plenty of opportunity to make your mark in the quantum revolution.