Distribution Supervisor

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.

The Distribution Warehouse Supervisor is responsible for leading day-to-day warehouse operations and ensuring safe efficient and accurate receiving put away picking packing shipping and inventory management across multiple functional areas. This role oversees assigned warehouse teamsincluding Freight Bulk Storage and RMA Receivingand ensures all activities align with company standards safety requirements and performance goals. Although the primary work location is Newton NJ occasional travel or temporary duties at other Thorlabs locations may be required.

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

Operational Oversight Ensure all receiving distribution and shipping activities follow Thorlabs procedures and quality standards.

Perform regular checks of workflows accuracy and output quality; resolve issues quickly and effectively.

Allocate labor and adjust staffing to maintain optimal productivity and meet daily commitments.

Partner with Bulk Distribution Ship Complete Autostore and RMA Receiving teams to meet daily targets.

Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency accuracy and throughput.

Update and adapt operational processes based on changing business needs volume fluctuations or technology enhancements. Specialized Functional Responsibilities Bulk Storage & Large Freight Items

Oversee the handling and storage of bulk heavy or oversized freight items.

Ensure proper equipment is used for receiving and transporting large materials (forklifts pallet jacks crate movers).

Maintain organized bulk locations and perform routine cycle counts and inventory accuracy checks. Freight Forwarding & Logistics Coordination

Coordinate inbound and outbound freight with third-party carriers and freight forwarders.

Request rate quotations schedule pickups arrange shipments and ensure proper documentation.

Monitor freight costs and collaborate with the logistics department to improve cost efficiency and transit performance. RMA Receiving

Supervise the RMA receiving team to ensure timely and accurate processing of returned merchandise

Maintain strict documentation quality inspection procedures and routing of RMAs to relevant internal teams. Autostore Operations

Coordinate receiving putaway replenishment and picking activities related to Autostore inventory.

Monitor Autostore system alerts slotting efficiency and cycle count accuracy.

Collaborate with IT/Automation teams to report technical issues or opportunities for optimization. Team Leadership & Supervision

Supervise employees within assigned groups including daily direction coaching and workflow prioritization.

Ensure all new and current employees receive proper training and maintain required training documentation.

Build and develop a high-performing team by fostering engagement communication and accountability.

Participate in hiring onboarding and training of new staff to maintain adequate operational coverage. Support performance management including evaluations corrective actions and development plans in partnership with HR and management.

Foster a positive collaborative work environment and address conflicts in a timely constructive manner.

Ensure compliance with attendance policies and all workplace behavior 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 for long durations and/or perform repetitious work at times. The employee may lift or move objects up to 50 pounds. Noise level is generally moderate but may rise during peak operations.

Qualifications Experience:

Minimum of 5 years of experience in Warehouse Distribution or Logistics operations.

Prior supervisory or team-lead experience strongly preferred (experience in Freight or RMA is a plus).

Experience with warehouse automation systems (e.g. Autostore) preferred.

Associates degree in supply chain Logistics Business Administration or a related field is preferred or equivalent of 7 years of experience working in the Logistic industry with a High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

Familiarity with a variety of computer software applications including Microsoft Outlook and Excel and experience with shipping software D365 or Warehouse Management Systems.

Strong leadership interpersonal and team-building abilities.

Excellent organizational decision-making and problem-solving skills.

Strong written and verbal communication skills. Basic math skills and computer proficiency.

Preferred proficiency in: o Microsoft Excel o Microsoft PowerPoint o Microsoft Word o Microsoft Dynamics 365

Knowledge of general industrial and warehouse safety standards.

Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities.

Organizational Relationships Direct Reports:

Freight Team RMA receiving Team Additional assigned operational warehouse staff.

Responsible for hiring coaching performance management and day-to-day supervision of employees in assigned areas.

The salary range for this position is$62900 - $78700 D.O.E.

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.

Required Experience:

Manager