Photonics Support Engineer I

As a Photonics Support Engineer I at Thorlabs, your responsibilities will include providing technical support to customers around the world via phone, web chat, and email. You will troubleshoot issues, offer product solutions, and work on developing customized options. Additionally, you'll engage with various support teams globally to implement best practices while participating in onsite lab activities and customer interactions at tradeshows.

To qualify for the Photonics Support Engineer I role at Thorlabs, a BSc, MSc, or PhD in Optics, Physics, or a related field is required. Alternatively, equivalent work experience or lab experience with optics, lasers, and electrical components will also be considered. Candidates should be eager to learn about photonics technology and have strong communication and problem-solving skills.

At Thorlabs, we believe in investing in our employees. As a Photonics Support Engineer I, you will receive comprehensive training to familiarize yourself with our products and systems. You’ll also have opportunities to improve your skills with hands-on lab experiences, contribute to the development of new products, and assist in training new team members. Continuous learning and development are at the heart of our culture.

While prior experience in photonics is advantageous, it is not strictly necessary to apply for the Photonics Support Engineer I position at Thorlabs. We welcome recent graduates with a strong academic background in relevant fields, along with a passion for learning and contributing to the field of photonics technology.

As a Photonics Support Engineer I at Thorlabs, you will engage in diverse projects ranging from technical support activities for optics and laser systems to participating in product development forums. You'll also contribute to marketing efforts by creating test data and promotional materials while leveraging your growing skills to influence future photonics products.

In responding to this question, provide specific examples of your academic or lab experience with optics and light-based technologies. Discuss particular projects where you utilized your knowledge and highlight any challenges you overcame.

When answering this question, emphasize your communication skills and systematic problem-solving approach. Describe a specific scenario where you successfully diagnosed and resolved a technical problem, ensuring to highlight your customer service manner.

Express your passion for photonics and how you see it impacting the world. Share about your specific interests in technologies that light enables and mention any influential projects or studies that inspired you to pursue this field.

In your answer, outline strategies for maintaining effective communication across time zones and cultures. Reference tools or practices you have utilized in previous experiences to promote collaborative teamwork.

Discuss your organizational skills and techniques such as prioritization or time management methods you apply. Mention specific software or tools that aid you in keeping track of tasks and deadlines while maintaining quality work.

Refer to a particular situation where you developed a technical solution. Describe the problem, what steps you took to address it, and the positive outcome that resulted from your initiative, showcasing your ability to innovate.

Share your perspective on constructive feedback as an opportunity for growth. Provide an instance where feedback helped you improve your performance or skills, showing your willingness to learn from others.

Talk about the trends in photonics that you find most intriguing—be it advancements in laser technologies, optics, or sustainable practices—and explain why these resonate with you personally and professionally.

Discuss your values and how they align with Thorlabs’ fun and innovative culture. Highlight ways in which you can bring positivity to the team, whether through collaboration, idea-sharing, or supporting your colleagues.

When answering this question, mention skills like excellent communication, technical proficiency, problem-solving, and adaptability. Provide examples of how you exemplify these skills in both academic and professional settings.