Manufacturing Process Operator Trainee

                                                                                                         On the Job Training provided! 

The CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) Systems Operator trainee is an 18–24-month training position. This training program includes procedure and training document review, supervised hands-on operation and maintenance of CVD process, support equipment, and performance of auxiliary and support tasks. Training includes technical equipment operation including fork trucks, man lifts, cranes and other overhead lifting devices as well. Must successfully complete the training program to move into an operator role.

Due to ITAR compliance, this position requires a U.S. citizen, permanent resident alien, or protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Position Overview

This is a hands-on manufacturing role operating Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) crystal growth processes. No prior CVD experience required. This position is well suited for individuals with strong safety awareness, mechanical aptitude and the ability to learn and retain technical information through on-the-job training.

Employees will be trained under supervision and gradually transition to independent work with promotion/pay increase, once training milestones are met. Success in this role depends on attention to detail, willingness to follow procedures, and comfort working in an industrial environment with strict safety requirements.

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Prior manufacturing, industrial, maintenance, or skilled trades experience is helpful but not required.

This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands-on work and are motivated to learn technical processes in a structured, safety-focused environment. You do not need prior experience with CVD systems or the materials used in this process. Comprehensive on-the-job training is provided.

You should consider applying if you have the following Skills and Abilities:

• Have experience in manufacturing, maintenance, construction, utilities, automotive, skilled trades, military, or other hands-on roles.
• Are mechanically inclined and comfortable working with tools, equipment, and process systems.
• Can follow detailed procedures and understand the importance of doing work safely and correctly every time.
• Are reliable, detail-oriented, and able to retain technical and safety-related information.
• Are comfortable working rotating shifts in an industrial environment.
• Communicate well with teammates, supervisors, and support groups.
• Take pride in learning a specialized role and becoming a qualified operator through training and experience.
• Have basic computer skills for data entry, logging, and equipment interfaces.

This role is well suited for candidates who may not have direct industry experience but bring strong work ethic, mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Learn to operate, monitor, and maintain CVD production equipment and supporting systems through structured on-the-job training and documented qualification processes.
• Perform assigned production and equipment tasks independently after completing required training and individual signoffs.
• Safely operate CVD Production Furnaces and support systems in compliance with established procedures.
• Handle and store process materials and H₂Se/H₂S gas cylinders according to training, site procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor equipment, processes, and safety systems; accurately log operating data and report abnormal conditions.
• Perform routine facility checks and follow reporting requirements.
• Strictly adhere to safety procedures, policies, and protocols to minimize risk when working with hazardous materials.
• Participate in Process Safety Management (PSM) activities and comply with OSHA PSM and EPA Risk Management Plan (RMP) requirements.
• Learn and follow site and DEP standards for hazardous waste handling and storage.
• Participate as a member of the Coherent Saxonburg Site Emergency Response Team (ERT), including completion of required training (such as 40-hour HAZWOPER) and ongoing refresher requirements.

Working Conditions

• Rotating 12hr shifts to support a 24/7/365 operation.
• Industrial manufacturing environment with exposure to dust, fumes, heat, noise, and cold.
• Work involves hazardous materials and requires strict adherence to safety procedures.
• Use of respirators, supplied air, and SCBA equipment is required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand or sit for up to 12 hours per shift.
• Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 50 lbs occasionally.
• Ability to climb, bend, reach, push, pull, and work on ladders or mechanical lifts.
• Ability to wear required PPE and safety equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to meet physical requirements for required Emergency Response Team participation.

Safety Requirements

All employees must comply with site EHS procedures and Coherent Corporate EHS standards.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Safety glasses, goggles, splash shields
• Steel toe/metatarsal footwear
• Long pants, sleeved uniform, hearing protection
• Dust mask, respirator, or supplied air as required

Medical Screening

• Pre-employment PFT and respirator physical
• Required Annual PFT and respirator physicals

Compensation

• $20/hr to start ($50-55k/yr with benefits below)
  • Rotating Schedule includes 15% Shift Differential 
  • Unique Work Schedule that includes Overtime and maximizes PTO benefit.

Benefits

• Quarterly Bonuses
• 18-24 month training program with 2-level pay increase upon completion.
• 3-weeks Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual to start
• Paid Sick Time Off (5 days)
• Paid Holidays
• Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
• 401K plan with company match
• Employee Stock Purchase Program
• Company paid life insurance 
• Annual performance review with merit increase
• Company supplied boots/uniforms/safety equipment

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Due to inventory quantities of some highly hazardous materials, MPZ is covered by OSHA standard for Process Safety Management, as well as EPA’s Risk Management program.  All MPZ personnel are required to understand the importance of following all operating procedures to maintain regulatory compliance with these programs.

Due to classification of several process waste streams, DEP standards for Hazardous Waste handling and storage must be followed to ensure regulatory compliance.

Coherent meets the ISO 9001 quality standards. MPZ employees must understand and follow all applicable Quality Assurance policies and participate in audits to maintain ISO 9001 certification.

Failure to follow operating procedures could result in a release of hazardous materials, impacting employees and the environment.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to company’s values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:

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
 

Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.