THORLABS H-1B Visa Sponsorship & Salary Data
Yes, THORLABS sponsors H-1B visas. In FY 2026, THORLABS filed 5 H-1B labor condition applications (5 certified) with a median salary of $82,552. Across FY 2020–2026, THORLABS has filed 43 total H-1B applications with 41 certified and a lifetime median salary of $95,909, which is 20% lower than the national H-1B median of $120,000.
FY 2026 Q1: 0 certified LCAs
Certifications dated Oct 1 – Dec 31, 2025 — the first full quarter after the $100K H-1B fee took effect on September 21, 2025.
FY 2020–2025 Q1 range 6-year Q1 average
THORLABS has no certified H-1B LCAs recorded in FY 2026 Q1 (Oct–Dec 2025), the first quarter after the $100K fee took effect. The 6-year Q1 average before the rule was 1 certified filings per quarter, so the absence of FY 2026 Q1 filings is a notable break from prior years.
In the prior six Q1s, THORLABS averaged 1 certified filings, peaking at 1 in FY 2022. The zero FY 2026 Q1 count could reflect a strategic pause, timing of decisions after the rule transition, or processing delays at DOL.
These counts reflect DOL LCA certifications with decision_date in Oct–Dec — a proxy for post-fee sponsorship activity. LCAs do not distinguish cap-subject new hires (fee-exposed) from extensions, transfers, and change-of-status petitions (fee-exempt), so a drop does not cleanly translate to fewer H-1B workers at THORLABS.
Salary Analysis
Salary Range
- 10th percentile: $75,000
- 25th percentile: $82,536
- Median: $95,909
- 75th percentile: $111,294
- 90th percentile: $129,215
Wage Level Distribution
- Level I (Entry): 13 (32%)
- Level II (Qualified): 22 (54%)
- Level III (Experienced): 6 (15%)
- Level IV (Expert): 0 (0%)
Trend (2020-2026)
- Starting median: $80,341
- Current median: $82,552
- Growth: +3%
Salary & Hiring Visualizations
Salary Distribution
Distribution of H-1B salaries at THORLABS
THORLABS's H-1B salaries range from $75,000 to $129,215 (10th-90th percentile), with a median of $95,909. This is comparable to the national H-1B median.
Wage Level Distribution
DOL wage levels affect H-1B lottery priority
THORLABS files 68% of H-1B positions at Level II or higher. This mix of wage levels reflects a range of entry to senior positions.
Median Salary Trend
Year-over-year salary changes
THORLABS's median H-1B salary increased by +3% from FY 2020 ($80,341) to FY 2026 ($82,552).
H-1B Filings by Year
Annual hiring activity through H-1B program
THORLABS's H-1B filings grew by +25% from FY 2020 to FY 2026.
Salary by Job Title
Top H-1B job titles at this employer
The highest-volume H-1B role at THORLABS is Mechanical Engineer with 3 filings at $80,000 median salary.
Salary by Location
Salary distribution across office locations (sorted by median)
THORLABS's largest H-1B hub is Newton, NJ with 18 filings. The highest-paying location is Jessup, MD at $130,111 median.
Highest Paying H-1B Roles at THORLABS
Ranked by median salary — Unlike "Salary by Job Title" above which shows the most common roles by filing volume, this section ranks all H-1B positions by their median compensation to highlight the best-paying opportunities.
These are the 6 highest-paying of THORLABS's most common H-1B job titles, ranked by median salary. The highest-paying role is Fiber Laser Engineer at $130,111 median, which is 36% above the company's overall H-1B median of $95,909.
High-paying H-1B roles typically require advanced technical expertise, specialized domain knowledge, or significant leadership responsibility. Factors influencing top-tier compensation include years of experience, educational credentials (PhD, Master's degrees), rare skill combinations, and market demand for specific technologies. The chart under each role shows how pay is spread across its filings—a wide box means pay varies a lot for that title, while a narrow box suggests standardized pay bands. Senior and principal-level positions consistently command premium salaries due to their strategic impact and scarcity of qualified candidates.
Fiber Laser Engineer
2 H-1B filings at THORLABS
Too few filings to chart the pay spread.
Research Scientist
2 H-1B filings at THORLABS
Too few filings to chart the pay spread.
Product Line Support Specialist
2 H-1B filings at THORLABS
Too few filings to chart the pay spread.
Mechanical Engineer I
3 H-1B filings at THORLABS
Too few filings to chart the pay spread.
Mechanical Engineer
3 H-1B filings at THORLABS
Too few filings to chart the pay spread.
Application Engineer
2 H-1B filings at THORLABS
Too few filings to chart the pay spread.
Salary data based on 41 certified H-1B labor condition applications at THORLABS. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, specific role requirements, and location within the company.
Highest Individual H-1B Salaries at THORLABS
Actual filed salaries — These are the 10 highest individual H-1B salary filings at THORLABS, representing specific positions (not aggregated medians). These may include executive, highly specialized, or senior leadership roles.
The highest H-1B salary filed at THORLABS was $138,747 for a Fiber Laser Design Engineer III position in Jessup, MD (FY2025). This is 45% higher than the company's median H-1B salary.
Top H-1B salaries often cluster in high cost-of-living metros like San Francisco, New York, and Seattle where prevailing wages are higher. However, executive and specialized roles can command premium compensation regardless of location. These filings represent the upper bound of H-1B compensation at THORLABS—actual total compensation may be significantly higher when including stock grants, bonuses, and benefits. Geographic patterns in top salaries often reflect where companies locate their most senior technical talent and leadership positions.
| Rank | Job Title | Location | Salary | Level | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fiber Laser Design Engineer III | Jessup, MD | $138,747 | III | FY 2025 |
| 2 | Controls Engineer | Londonderry, NH | $134,642 | III | FY 2026 |
| 3 | Electrical Engineer | Jessup, MD | $133,037 | II | FY 2025 |
| 4 | Fiber Laser Engineer | Jessup, MD | $130,111 | II | FY 2024 |
| 5 | Lead Optical Engineer | Santa Barbara, CA | $129,215 | II | FY 2025 |
| 6 | Photonics Engineer II | Lafayette, CO | $129,215 | II | FY 2025 |
| 7 | Lean Manufacturing Engineer (Process Improvement Manager) | Morganville, NJ | $123,939 | III | FY 2022 |
| 8 | Product Development Engineer - Fiber Laser Product | Jessup, MD | $119,000 | II | FY 2023 |
| 9 | Research Scientist | Boston, MA | $115,190 | II | FY 2021 |
| 10 | Mechanical Engineer III | Newton, NJ | $115,000 | III | FY 2025 |
These represent the highest individual salary amounts filed in H-1B labor condition applications. Note: H-1B salary data reflects base compensation only and does not include stock options, RSUs, bonuses, or other benefits which can significantly increase total compensation at tech companies.
Detailed Breakdown
H-1B Job Titles at THORLABS
| Job Title | Filings | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Engineer | 3 | $80,000 |
| Mechanical Engineer I | 3 | $82,536 |
| Research Scientist | 2 | $115,190 |
| Fiber Laser Engineer | 2 | $130,111 |
| Product Line Support Specialist | 2 | $98,114 |
| Application Engineer | 2 | $66,789 |
H-1B Locations for THORLABS
| Location | Filings | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Newton, NJ | 18 | $82,552 |
| Sterling, VA | 7 | $95,000 |
| Jessup, MD | 6 | $130,111 |
| Morganville, NJ | 3 | $111,000 |
| Boston, MA | 1 | $115,190 |
| Gaithersburg, MD | 1 | $98,114 |
| Miami Beach, FL | 1 | $81,600 |
| Santa Barbara, CA | 1 | $129,215 |
| Ann Arbor, MI | 1 | $104,510 |
| Lafayette, CO | 1 | $129,215 |
Recent H-1B Filings at THORLABS
Sample of 20 recent certified H-1B labor condition applications. This represents a small fraction of THORLABS's 41 total certified filings.
| Job Title | Location | Salary | Level | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Engineer II | Sterling, VA | $102,586 | II | FY 2026 |
| Controls Engineer | Londonderry, NH | $134,642 | III | FY 2026 |
| Mechanical Engineer I | Newton, NJ | $82,536 | I | FY 2026 |
| Mechanical Engineer I | Newton, NJ | $82,536 | I | FY 2026 |
| Mechanical Engineer I | Newton, NJ | $82,552 | I | FY 2026 |
| Mechanical Engineer III | Newton, NJ | $115,000 | III | FY 2025 |
| Mechanical Engineer II | Morganville, NJ | $111,000 | II | FY 2025 |
| Photonics Learning Specialist | Miami Beach, FL | $81,600 | II | FY 2025 |
| Electrical Engineer | Jessup, MD | $133,037 | II | FY 2025 |
| Fiber Laser Design Engineer III | Jessup, MD | $138,747 | III | FY 2025 |
| Lead Optical Engineer | Santa Barbara, CA | $129,215 | II | FY 2025 |
| Electrical Engineer II | Sterling, VA | $110,968 | II | FY 2025 |
| Opto-Electronics Manufacturing Engineer | Ann Arbor, MI | $104,510 | II | FY 2025 |
| Photonics Engineer II | Lafayette, CO | $129,215 | II | FY 2025 |
| Photonics Support Engineer Supervisor | Jessup, MD | $110,282 | III | FY 2024 |
| Photonics Support Engineer II | Newton, NJ | $88,670 | II | FY 2024 |
| Field Service Engineer | Sterling, VA | $75,000 | I | FY 2024 |
| Photonics Support Engineer II | Newton, NJ | $88,670 | II | FY 2024 |
| Systems Engineer I | Sterling, VA | $95,000 | I | FY 2024 |
| Fiber Laser Engineer | Jessup, MD | $130,111 | II | FY 2024 |
Data source: U.S. Department of Labor LCA Disclosure Files. Showing most recent certified filings.
Frequently Asked Questions about THORLABS H-1B Visas
What is the average H-1B salary at THORLABS?
The median H-1B salary at THORLABS is $95,909, based on 41 certified filings from FY 2020 to FY 2026. This is 20% lower than the national H-1B median salary of $120,000. Compensation at THORLABS reflects their market positioning, with entry-level roles starting around $82,536 and senior positions reaching $129,215 or higher. These figures represent base salaries in LCA filings and may not include bonuses, equity grants, or other compensation common at large employers.
Salaries at THORLABS range from $75,000 at the 10th percentile to $129,215 at the 90th percentile, showing a $54,215 spread across experience levels and roles. The 25th percentile is $82,536 and the 75th percentile is $111,294.
Does THORLABS sponsor H-1B visas in 2026?
Yes, THORLABS actively sponsors H-1B visas in FY 2026. In the most recent fiscal year (FY 2026), THORLABS filed 5 H-1B labor condition applications with 5 certified and 0 denied, at a median salary of $82,552. Across FY 2020–2026, they have filed 43 total H-1B applications with 41 certified and a 0% lifetime denial rate, demonstrating ongoing commitment to hiring international talent. THORLABS sponsors positions across multiple job categories and locations, making them a viable option for professionals seeking H-1B visa sponsorship.
In the most recent fiscal year (FY 2026), THORLABS filed 5 H-1B applications, with 5 certified and 0 denied. Over 7 years of data, THORLABS has consistently demonstrated commitment to H-1B sponsorship.
Note: These are Labor Condition Applications (LCAs) filed with the Department of Labor, which is a prerequisite for H-1B petitions. The actual number of H-1B petitions filed with USCIS may differ.
What is THORLABS's H-1B approval rate?
THORLABS's LCA (Labor Condition Application) denial rate is 0%, with 0 out of 43 applications denied across all years. This translates to a 100.0% certification rate, which indicates how successfully the company prepares and files H-1B applications. A lower denial rate suggests better compliance with Department of Labor requirements, proper wage documentation, and accurate job classification. Prospective H-1B applicants should consider this approval rate alongside other factors like salary, job role, and location when evaluating THORLABS as a potential H-1B sponsor.
This is an excellent approval rate, indicating THORLABS has strong H-1B sponsorship practices and typically meets DOL requirements. Applicants can feel confident in the company's H-1B track record.
What jobs does THORLABS sponsor for H-1B?
THORLABS sponsors H-1B visas for various specialty occupation positions requiring at least a bachelor's degree. Based on 41 certified filings, the most commonly sponsored job titles reflect the company's primary business functions and talent needs. These positions typically require specialized knowledge in fields like technology, engineering, finance, or scientific research. Understanding which roles THORLABS most frequently sponsors can help job seekers target their applications effectively.
Most common H-1B job titles at THORLABS:
The most frequently sponsored role is Mechanical Engineer with 3 filings at a median salary of $80,000. This is followed by Mechanical Engineer I (3 filings) and Research Scientist.
Where are THORLABS's H-1B jobs located?
THORLABS's H-1B positions are distributed across multiple U.S. locations, with concentration in major metropolitan areas and tech hubs. Geographic distribution often reflects company office locations, client sites, and regional market demands. Location significantly impacts H-1B salary due to varying cost of living and local wage requirements. Understanding where THORLABS sponsors H-1B workers can help candidates target specific offices and negotiate appropriate compensation for each market.
Top THORLABS H-1B locations:
The largest H-1B hub for THORLABS is Newton, NJ with 18 filings at a median salary of $82,552. The highest-paying location is Jessup, MD at $130,111 median. Salaries range from $81,600 to $130,111 across office locations.
How have THORLABS's H-1B salaries changed over time?
THORLABS's median H-1B salary has increased by +3% from FY 2020 ($80,341) to FY 2026 ($82,552). Tracking salary trends over time reveals how THORLABS adjusts compensation to remain competitive in the H-1B labor market. Salary growth typically reflects inflation adjustments, increased demand for specialized skills, and evolving prevailing wage requirements. These historical trends can help applicants understand future salary expectations and negotiate appropriately when considering H-1B opportunities at THORLABS.
Year-by-year breakdown:
- FY 2022: $85,987 (9 certified)
- FY 2023: $119,000 (1 certified)
- FY 2024: $95,000 (6 certified)
- FY 2025: $115,000 (9 certified)
- FY 2026: $82,552 (5 certified)
THORLABS has maintained steady salary growth for H-1B positions over this period.
What wage level does THORLABS use for H-1B?
THORLABS primarily files H-1B applications at Wage Level II, accounting for 54% of their filings. DOL wage levels range from Level I (entry-level, 17th percentile of local wages) to Level IV (expert, 67th percentile). Wage level determines both salary requirements and, under recent H-1B rules, lottery selection priority. Higher wage levels receive preference in the H-1B lottery, making THORLABS's wage level distribution an important factor for prospective applicants assessing their chances of H-1B selection.
THORLABS has a mix of entry-level (Level I) and experienced (Level II+) H-1B positions. This reflects a range of roles from junior to senior.
How does THORLABS's H-1B salary compare to other employers?
THORLABS's median H-1B salary of $95,909 is 20% lower than the national H-1B median of $120,000 across all employers and industries. This comparison provides context for evaluating THORLABS's competitiveness in attracting H-1B talent. Keep in mind that industry, location, and job function significantly impact salary levels. Tech companies and financial institutions typically offer higher H-1B salaries than other sectors, while salaries in major metros like San Francisco and New York exceed those in smaller markets. Compare THORLABS's offerings with similar companies in your field for a more accurate assessment.
THORLABS's H-1B salaries are below the national median, though this may vary significantly by role, experience level, and location. Consider researching specific positions for more accurate compensation expectations.
How do new H-1B fees and rules affect THORLABS's sponsorship?
Recent H-1B rule changes have increased filing fees and introduced wage-level prioritization in the lottery. THORLABS files 32% of positions at Level I, which may face more lottery competition under wage-level prioritization rules.
With 41 certified filings, THORLABS invests significantly in H-1B sponsorship. The company's 0% denial rate suggests strong compliance with H-1B requirements and documentation standards.
Note: H-1B regulations are subject to change. Fees shown are estimates based on 2024 USCIS fee schedules. Actual costs may vary based on company size, premium processing, and future rule changes.
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