Summer 2026 Change Management and HR Support Internship

Thorlabs is recruiting for Summer 2026 interns, which will have the opportunity to learn more about our business, work on real world projects, and interact within a global company. We are planning to have several interns, this position is for a change management and human resource based internship with one of our groups located in Newton, New Jersey. Housing and relocation expenses are at the responsibility of the applicant and will not be covered by the company. This position requires full-time availability from mid-May to August and offers an opportunity to gain valuable skills and industry insights over the summer.

Application deadline: Until positions filled

Salary range $18.00 - $25.00 per hour depending upon the degree and level

Purpose of the Position

This opportunity is to join a rapidly growing, well-known company in an exciting industry. The ideal candidate is a motivated and detail-oriented individual who is looking to support our Human Resources department with change management initiatives and organizational development projects. This role provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in HR transformation and change management practices in a dynamic technology manufacturing environment. 

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

• Assist in developing and implementing change management strategies and plans 
• Support communication efforts related to organizational changes 
• Help coordinate training sessions for employees adapting to new processes 
• Collect and analyze feedback data from change initiatives 
• Prepare documents, presentations, and materials for change management programs 
• Contribute to project management activities, including tracking milestones and deliverables 
• Provide administrative support for HR team members during organizational transition periods 
• Help organize and facilitate workshops and focus groups 
• Research best practices in change management and HR transformation 

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.

Requirements:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organizational Development, Psychology, or related field 
• Strong interest in change management and organizational development 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) 
• Ability to maintain confidentiality with sensitive information 
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills 
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment 

Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge of change management methodologies (e.g., ADKAR, Kotter's 8-Step Model) 
• Experience with project management tools 
• Previous internship or coursework in HR or change management 
• Basic understanding of data analysis techniques 

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 20 pounds. Employees must grasp, manipulate, or assemble parts and components that are often very small. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, however, may be noisy at times. Must be able to wear appropriate clothing and personal protective equipment such as but not limited to masks, glasses, gloves, and specialty garments. The required PPE and training allow for the safe handling and processing of chemicals like adhesives, lubricants and solvents, and safe operation of job-related equipment and tools. 

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.

Internship positions will not be eligible for benefits.