Photonics Engineer Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Thorlabs is pleased to play a role in advancing science through the components, instruments, and systems we design and manufacture. We believe that science and innovation have great potential to improve the world around us and are committed to advancing photonics (i.e., light-based) technologies that positively impact our customers, employees, and communities. Via educational outreach and more sustainable business practices, we continuously invest in a brighter future. We recognize that each of our employees is a unique individual with the ability to contribute to our success and seek to find great people who will thrive in our fun, fast-paced 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.

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

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

• 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.

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.