Photonics Learning Specialist II

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.

The Photonics Learning Specialist is responsible for overseeing the setup and presentation of educational efforts across Thorlabs’ virtual and in-person platforms to ensure quality and consistent educational experiences. This role applies education and outreach with the ability to communicate to learners across a diverse range of educational backgrounds both in breadth and depth. The Photonics Learning Specialist will work closely with the event support staff to ensure the necessary equipment and supporting materials are prepared, delivered, maintained, and presented successfully at each event. The Photonics Learning Specialist will also work closely with the content strategists to continuously improve and expand the educational portfolio based on event feedback and observations.

Although the location of the position is in Newton, NJ, from time to time it may be required to undertake duties at other Thorlabs locations.

• Coordinate the successful creation of the photonics learning events, including keeping track of event requests, reaching out to event hosts, securing dates, confirming content for the expected audience, and ensuring the successful delivery of promised events.

• Teach educational content in person, including the ability to describe the background, process, and expected results while being able to answer user questions clearly and concisely.

• Present lab techniques and best practices and be able to speak to the pros and cons of alternatives.

• Collaborate with internal experts to learn techniques and principles beyond the expected presentation to ensure explanations originate from a place of understanding, are clear and concise, and maintain the highest levels of accuracy.

• Support staff to setup, tear down, and present demonstrations and maintain quality standards.

• Create operating procedures and train support staff to setup, tear down, and present demonstrations and maintain quality standards.

• Collaborate with event staff and Marketing team to curate and collect digital content for marketing and educational initiatives.

• Collaborate with Marketing team to provide feedback on materials from event participants and ensure the appropriate amount of material is available for each event.

• Setup and break down all equipment, furniture, and accessories required for each event.

• Support and establish key relationships at universities and other institutions to present educational offerings, determine optimal events, and follow up to collect feedback and quantify event impact.

• Create, manage, and report key performance indicators (KPIs) of events.

• Crosstrain with Content Specialists to create and implement updates on course materials and equipment and propose new demonstrations and materials to expand the portfolio of learning content.

• Identify and execute strategies to expand the reach and scale of educational platforms.

• Remain knowledgeable of newly released products, product presentations, lab activities, and published content to recognize new educational content opportunities.

Experience:

• 5+ years of experience working in a photonics lab.

• 5+ years of experience educating STEM students.

• 5+ years of experience providing technical presentations.

Education:

• Bachelors required, master’s or Ph.D. in a Photonics-related field preferred.

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Clearly and effectively convey information and ideas to students, using various methods such as verbal, written, and visual communication.

• Ability to communicate, identify and address issues or obstacles that may hinder the learning process and find effective solutions.

• Ability to identify, trial, and incorporate updates to educational materials to improve learning outcomes.

• Provide lectures, trainings, and demonstrations in person and virtually to large groups.

• Create, collect, analyze, and adapt key performance indicators (KPIs) to optimize learning outcomes.

• Execute, evaluate, and report out on strategic approaches.

• Capacity to understand and relate to students' feelings, perspectives, and challenges.

• Awareness and respect for the cultural and diverse backgrounds of students, ensuring an inclusive and equitable learning environment.

• Use available resources to establish new relationships and coordinate successful events.

• Efficient use of time during lessons to cover necessary content and meet educational goals.

• Strong interpersonal skills for working in a team environment.

• Able to adapt and work independently.

• Willing to constantly learn new technologies, applications, techniques, and developed products.

• Strong organizational and planning skills.

• Able to multitask, be detail oriented, and solve problems as they arise.

• Ability to write and present scientific concepts in English and Spanish fluently.

• Travel up to 33% to events and other locations.

• Availability to support night/weekend coverage based on the needs of the business.

The estimated pay range for this role is $69,000 - $ 86,000 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.