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.

As an Electrical Engineer I at Thorlabs’ Colorado Center for Innovation (CCI), you will play a key supporting role in developing next-generation electronic systems. Under the guidance of senior engineers, you will engage in circuit design, debugging, and validation of high-precision instruments, including low-noise laboratory equipment and quantum photonics sources. This position is ideal for early-career engineers eager to apply their academic knowledge to complex hardware challenges and contribute to cutting-edge technology.

• Assist in developing electrical schematics, PCB layouts, and parts creation for laboratory instrumentation and laser accessories.
• Perform board-level troubleshooting and debugging of prototypes to identify and resolve functional issues.
• Assist in defining and executing test plans to ensure products meet performance requirements and regulatory compliance standards (e.g., CE, UL, or EMC).
• Partner with mechanical, software, and manufacturing teams to ensure designs are optimized for production.
• Assist in documenting designs for quality assurance and marketing.
• Support existing product lines by investigating component obsolescence, implementing minor design improvements, and troubleshooting manufacturing issues.

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 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

Experience:

• Entry level role :0-4 years of electrical engineering experience (internships included)

Education:

•  BSEE or MSEE or similar from an ABET accredited institution
• Demonstrated equivalent knowledge and experience

Specialized Knowledge and Interests:

·       Familiarity with EDA tools and toolchains (e.g., Altium, OrCAD, or KiCad). Altium Designer preferred.

·       Familiarity with standard lab equipment like oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, signal generators

·       Strong foundational knowledge of power, analog and digital circuit design.

·       Ability to document technical findings clearly and collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary team.

·       Familiarity with electronics rework (e.g. soldering, hot air guns)

·       Experience with low-noise analog design or signal integrity.

·       Familiarity with Python or C/C++ for test automation (device communications).

·       Prior internship or project experience involving photonics or precision measurement tools.

The estimated pay range for this role is $80,000 - $ 90,000 annually

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 identify 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.