Production Manager - Microfab

The Production Manager (Microfab) oversees engineers and technicians to ensure timely and efficient production processes, while in parallel shepherding innovative R&D efforts on semiconductor-based optical systems. In this position, you will lead and coordinate the fulfilment of production orders, plus new and ongoing developmental projects. The position involves interfacing with internal and external partners to ensure that successful technical outcomes are achieved. A key focus will be on providing leadership, guidance, and supervision of open orders to ensure that parts, materials, and manpower are available for production tasks. This role works closely with management such that quality products are manufactured safely and efficiently within the scheduled timeline. Responsibilities include managing production staff, planning and scheduling, overseeing daily production activities, and maintaining all assembly, test, and quality documentation. The position also involves incorporating engineering changes, making capital equipment recommendations, and providing support to production and management in production and R&D efforts. Although based out of our Santa Barbara, CA office, occasional duties at UCSB Nanofabrication Facility and other Thorlabs locations may be required.

Salary range for this position is 130,000 - 165,000 d.o.e.

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

• Responsible for production and R&D of advanced semiconductor photonic devices.
• Supervise microfabrication processes and investigate novel functionalities and materials systems.
• Develop tooling and processes for high-yield commercial microfabrication processes.
• Document work instructions and travelers for production and R&D processes.
• Review and manage open sales orders, back orders, zero stock, and production orders.
• Maintain appropriate inventory levels for stocked parts and input materials.
• Manage and maintain assembly, test, and quality instructions and manufacturing-related documentation.
• Design standardized tools and templates to generate test and measurement documentation.
• Interface with new and existing customers and collaborators, to investigate novel functionalities, application areas, and systems for our group.
• Assist in preparing grant proposals, scientific publications, presentations, and reports.
• Balance quality, productivity, cost, safety, and morale to achieve positive results.

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.

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. Employee must grasp, manipulate, or assemble parts and components that are often 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.

Experience:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in a cleanroom manufacturing environment.
• Experience managing people is preferred.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or physical sciences.
• Master’s degree and/or PhD preferred.

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong interpersonal, organization and management skills.
• Knowledge of semiconductor fab. processes and manufacturing procedures to ensure process and productivity improvements.
• Knowledge of passive and active photonic devices.
• Knowledge of test equipment and procedures for metrology of microfabricated devices.

Organizational Relationships

Direct Reports:

This position manages manufacturing employees of the assigned department and is responsible for the performance management and hiring of employees within that department.

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.

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..