# Production Supervisor > Thorlabs · Ann Arbor, United States · Full-time · Posted 2026-07-31 **Salary:** USD 65,000–82,400 **Workplace:** on_site **Department:** US - UFO/Ultrafast Optoelectronics ## Description 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 Production Supervisor provides leadership, guidance, and supervision for the assigned area(s). This individual will work closely with management to ensure quality products are safely and efficiently produced within scheduled timeline. **Essential Job Functions include the following, but are not limited to:** • Responsible for supervising production personnel. • Directs and coordinates workflow through assigned area(s) including planning using ERP and/or MES tools • Establishes production schedules based on product requirements and material supply. • Responsible for frequent checks of product quality and resolves production and the resulting quality issues that may arise, individually and through communication with other teams. • Develops and maintains methods and procedures to optimize manufacturing efficiencies and quality maximize labor utilization and reduce operating costs. • Ensures production goals are met. • Assists in performing physical inventories in accordance with company procedures. • Demonstrated success in developing others, building a successful team, facilitating change, aligning performance to company values. • Foster a culture of continuous improvement. • Ensures compliance with safety practices and maintains clean and orderly work areas. • Creates updates and presentations as needed for Sr. Management. • Interacts with engineering staff to facilitate introduction of new products into production • Manage departmental performance measures, including visual controls and provides regular progress reports to manager. • Monitor attendance, performance, training; complete performance assessments; make termination recommendations as necessary. • Manage department priorities. • Participates in interviewing and selection of production personnel. ## Requirements **Experience:** • Minimum 2-5 years of experience in a similar and progressive position with supervisory experience. **Education:** • Associate degree or equivalent or equivalent work experience. An associate or bachelor’s degree in operations management, Business Administration, Industrial Engineering, or a related field is preferred. **Specialized Knowledge and Skills:** • Strong sense of ownership and work ethic, written and verbal communication skills. • Strong interpersonal and leadership skills. • Demonstrated problem solving skills • Proficient computer skills • Knowledge of ERP and/or MES system for planning, communication, and execution of production activities • Strong ability to work well in a group atmosphere and comply with high-quality standards. • Strong ability to shift from one task to another to address changing production priorities. _**The estimated pay range for this role is $65,700 - $ 82,400 per year**_ _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.**_ ## Apply [Apply at Thorlabs](https://apply.workable.com/thorlabs/j/B6E69607C4/apply) --- Powered by [Workable](https://www.workable.com)