Manufacturing Process Operator Trainee

About Us

Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials, and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard work through a competitive compensation program.

Responsibilities

• Learn to operate, monitor, and maintain CVD production equipment and support systems under supervision.
• Perform tasks independently once training requirements are met and sign-off procedures are completed.
• Ensure safe operation of CVD production equipment and support systems, including safe handling and storage of H₂S/H₂Se gas cylinders and processing of ZnS/ZnSe product.
• Monitor and log data for CVD processes, support equipment, safety systems, and facility checks, including reporting.
• Strictly adhere to established procedures, policies, and protocols to reduce the risk of accidental release or exposure to highly toxic materials.
• Participate in the Process Safety Management (PSM) process to maintain compliance with OSHA PSM and EPA Risk Management Plan (RMP) standards.
• Learn and follow DEP standards for safe handling and storage of hazardous waste.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives in the CVD department.
• Actively participate in the Saxonburg Site Emergency Response Team (ERT), including successful completion of 40-hour HAZWOPER Technician Level training and meeting continuing education requirements.
• Understand and meet the MPZ CVD schedule, performance, and operating requirements.
• Model, lead, motivate, and influence effectively using ICARE values (Integrity, Collaboration, Accountability, Respect, Enthusiasm).

Requirements

• High school graduate or equivalent required.
• 1 to 3 years of manufacturing experience preferred.
• Basic understanding of chemistry and physics principles.
• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to following strict safety protocols.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Good manual dexterity and ability to work with small, delicate components.
• Strong communication skills for accurate reporting and data logging.
• Good computer skills for data entry and equipment interface operation.
• Strong aptitude for learning complex technical processes and safety procedures.
• Moderate mechanical aptitude for process connections and system maintenance.
• General understanding of pressure and fluid flow to troubleshoot and correct minor process issues.
• Ability to communicate effectively with department management, maintenance, and trained CVD Systems operators/leads.
• Ability to perform all aspects of a system operator safely and completely within the training period.

Working Conditions

• Multiple-shift rotation to support a 24/7/365 operation.
• Involves handling and storage of toxic substances requiring significant attention to detail.
• Regular exposure to dust, fumes, heat, noise, and cold.
• Respirator, supplied air, and SCBA use required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand or sit for up to 12 hours per day.
• Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Must be able to climb, bend, reach, push, and pull regularly.
• Must be able to work on elevated surfaces such as ladders or mechanical lifts.
• Must be able to wear required equipment during production, maintenance, and incident response.
• Must be able to function mentally and physically while wearing safety equipment for extended periods.
• Must meet physical requirements to participate as an active member of the site Emergency Response Team.

Safety Requirements

• Follow site EHS procedures and Coherent Corporate EHS standards.
• Wear proper PPE including safety glasses, goggles, splash shields, steel toe/metatarsal shoes, long pants, sleeved uniform, and hearing protection.
• Wear dust mask, respirator, or supplied air for extended periods.
• Complete pre-employment physical and PFT + respirator fit test.
• Complete annual PFT + respirator physicals for Emergency Response Team members.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

• Understand and follow all operating procedures to maintain compliance with OSHA PSM and EPA Risk Management Plan (RMP) standards due to inventory quantities of highly hazardous materials.
• Follow DEP standards for Hazardous Waste handling and storage to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Understand and follow all applicable Quality Assurance policies to maintain ISO 9001 certification and participate in audits.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to Coherent’s ICARE values in all aspects of your position:

• Integrity – Create an Environment of Trust
• Collaboration – Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas
• Accountability – Own the Process and the Outcome
• Respect – Recognize the Value in Everyone
• Enthusiasm – Find a Sense of Purpose in Work