RF Induction Systems Engineer – Crystal Growth & Melting Equipment

Key Responsibilities

• Design and optimize current RF induction heating systems (typically 1–50 kHz range)
• Develop and tune series and parallel resonant circuits for high-power operation
• Specify and integrate RF generators, matching networks, and capacitor banks
• Design and optimize induction coils for thermal profile and coupling efficiency
• Support and develop crystal growth melting systems
• Optimize thermal gradients, melt stability, and power delivery
• Integrate RF systems with crystal growth platforms (e.g., CZ, HEM, skull melting)
• Develop process recipes and operating envelopes for different materials
• Perform electromagnetic and thermal simulations (e.g., COMSOL, ANSYS)
• Model coupling efficiency, current distribution, and heating profiles
• Analyze load-dependent impedance behavior and resonance shifts
• Lead tuning of RF systems under dynamic load conditions
• Diagnose issues related to: detuning, reflected power instability, and oscillation, coil overheating, and inefficiency
• Optimize performance across full process cycle (cold start → melt → steady-state)
• Design and review: coil assemblies, cooling systems (water-cooled copper structures), bus bars, and power delivery systems
• Ensure robust high-current, low-loss electrical connections
• Develop test plans and validation procedures
• Analyze system performance using: current/voltage measurements, phase and impedance analysis, thermal diagnostics
• Lead commissioning of new equipment and upgrades
• Work with materials scientists, process engineers, and mechanical teams
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in RF power systems, induction heating, or high-power electronics
• Strong understanding of: resonant circuits (series and parallel), impedance matching, RF power delivery systems
• Hands-on experience with induction heating systems (kHz range preferred)
• Experience with high-temperature or vacuum systems

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with crystal growth systems (CZ, HEM, skull melting, Bridgman)
• Familiarity with reactive oxide or semiconductor materials
• Experience with COMSOL, ANSYS Maxwell, or similar tools
• Knowledge of: thermal management and cooling design, high-current bus design, vacuum and controlled atmosphere systems
• Experience working with RF generators (solid-state or tube-based)

Key Skills

• RF system tuning and optimization
• Electromagnetic and thermal analysis
• Troubleshooting complex coupled systems
• Hands-on experimental and debugging skills
• Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking

Working Environment

• Combination of lab, pilot production, and engineering design environment
• Exposure to high-temperature systems, high current RF equipment, and vacuum systems
• Requires hands-on work with experimental setups and industrial-scale equipment

Safety Requirements

• All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.

Culture Commitment

• Ensure adherence to company’s values (ICARE): 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

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.