Quality Inspector – Optics & Precision Manufacturing in Ely

This role covers incoming inspection of components, outgoing inspection for finished goods, Quality and RMA administrative tasks. You will work closely with all departments on continuous improvement initiatives based on data collected from supplier and customer issues to ensure a high level of quality is kept throughout the manufacturing process.

Working Hours: Monday - Thursday 8am - 4:30pm & Friday 8am - 3:30pm

Department: Quality Engineering

Interview process: 2 stage process following shortlisting – First stage: 1-hour Teams interview Second stage: Onsite 3-hour interview

Who we are? Thorlabs is a global, industry leading optical technologies company. We are experts in the design and manufacture of 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.

What is essential to us…

• Previous experience in similar role is preferred.
• Good understanding of metrology.
• Previous use of measuring tools and equipment.
• Understanding of software and measurement systems.
• Detail orientated, with ability to interpret technical drawings and documentation.
• Computer literate with experience using Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to multitask, time manage and work independently.
• Ability to identify and resolve problems quickly.
• Adhering to core values and driven positive attitude.
• Ability to take initiatives, with a positive approach to continuous improvement activities.
• Receptive to new challenges and expanding current knowledge.
• Quick learner.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

What we would like you to do/ to see…

• Process incoming & outgoing RMA shipments from internal and external customers.
• Provide measurement services to ensure compliance to dimensional and visual specification of components (incoming) and assemblies at all stages of manufacture (including production rejects and outgoing inspection).
• Operate all manual measuring equipment within the metrology area.
• Assist in developing SOP’s and clear methodologies for inspection for current and future products.
• Liaise with the production team leaders where outgoing inspection faults are identified.
• Escalate repeated quality process related concerns to Quality Engineering team for root cause analysis and implementation of corrective actions.
• Maintain effective and efficient communication with suppliers, as well as internal and external customers, while answering their questions, and updating them regarding the status of RMA, NCR, or corrective action reports.
• Coordinate and communicate with internal and external RMA & Quality teams, to ensure compliance of products.
• Carry out administrative tasks such as raising NCRs, Corrective actions report and logging faults.
• Assist with stock control in the RMA and Q1 warehouses, process RMA sales orders, and support product recalls.
• Ensure that RMA and Quality departmental KPIs are consistently met.

What will you get? At Thorlabs there are lots of opportunities for in-house 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.

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 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.

All offers of employment are subject to eligibility to work in the UK.

We would encourage all internal applicants to inform their line managers of their interest in this position.

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.

We are Disability Confident Committed.

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.