Team Lead

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 Shipping Team Lead supports the efficient execution of daily shipping operations by working closely with Distribution Supervisors and cross-functional teams across the Distribution Department. This role provides leadership, coordination, and operational support to ensure timely, accurate order fulfillment. The position is based in Newton, NJ, with occasional responsibilities at other Thorlabs locations as needed.

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

• Assign tasks to team members based on daily priorities, monitor progress, and adjust assignments to prevent bottlenecks or missed deadlines alongside the queue control personnel.
• Work closely with the Inventory & Receiving Departments to resolve discrepancies.
• Work with Customer Service Department to review orders as necessary.
• Work closely with personnel from each business unit to ensure same-day delivery of orders.
• Recommend process improvement regarding standard policies & procedures to ensure adequate flow of all customers' orders.
• Cross training in Inventory and Receiving Departments, as needed.
• Troubleshoot and analyze shipping issues to determine the root cause and propose solutions.
• Train and maintain advanced knowledge of the D365 Warehouse Management System.
• Assists with order fulfillment as needed.
• Understand customer needs and expectations as they relate to the Distribution Department.
• Training & mentoring of all new shipping team resources.
• Comply with all company policies, procedures and safety requirements.
• Provide day-to-day leadership to a team of 6-7 Shipping Associates, ensuring work is effectively prioritized, assigned, and completed within designated shipping categories.
• Promote a collaborative, team-focused environment through clear communication across shifts, strong cross-functional coordination, and a focus on accountability and continuous improvement.
• Act as a point of support and escalation for team members, addressing performance, workflow, and operational challenges to maintain productivity and service levels.
• Perform related duties as assigned by management.

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 50 pounds. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, however, may be noisy at times.

Qualifications Experience:

• Minimum 4 years of Warehouse Distribution experience.

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent. Associate's degree in Business or Supply Chain or equivalent, a plus.

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong interpersonal, organization and follow-through skills.
• Ability to work under stress/self-starter
• Excellent trouble shooting skills.
• Proficiency in basic computer use (MS Office) and communication tools.
• Possess superior analytic skills to investigate and resolve inventory errors and/or discrepancies.
• Outstanding attention to detail and the ability to multitask.
• Strong interpersonal skills; strong ability to work with individuals at all levels of the organization.
• Outstanding communication skills.
• Possess advanced knowledge of D365 F&O.
• Familiarity with major carriers like FedEx, UPS, and DHL is often required

Other:

• This position is required to work occasionally on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and overtime as needed to meet the business requirements. Hazmat Certification is a plus

The hourly rate for this position is $25.00

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.