Intern Machine Learning - Semiconductor Laser Manufacturing

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Machine Learning Intern to join our Semiconductor Laser Engineering team for Summer 2026. In this role, you will apply machine learning techniques to improve semiconductor laser manufacturing yield, optimize diode laser screening methods and inverse engineer for better performance. You will work closely with process engineers, device engineers, and data scientists to develop models that enhance process control and product performance prediction in a high-volume manufacturing environment.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

•  Analyze large-scale manufacturing and test datasets to identify yield drivers and performance trends in semiconductor laser production

•  Develop and evaluate machine learning models to:

•   Predict device performance and reliability
• Identify root causes of yield loss
• Improve wafer-level and die-level screening strategies

•  Design data preprocessing and feature engineering pipelines for manufacturing and parametric test data

•  Apply statistical analysis and ML techniques (e.g., regression, classification, clustering, anomaly detection) to optimize diode laser screening thresholds

•  Collaborate with device, process, and test engineers to translate model insights into actionable manufacturing improvements

•  Validate model performance using historical production data and controlled experiments

•  Present findings, technical insights, and recommendations to engineering leadership

•  Deliver a final technical report and presentation summarizing methodology, results, and potential production implementation roadmap

Education & Experience

•  Education Level Required: Bachelor's / Master’s / PhD
•   Majors: Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Materials Science, Data Science, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, or related technical discipline
• Relevant coursework or extracurricular experience in machine learning, statistics, data analytics, semiconductor devices, solid-state physics, or manufacturing process analysis is a plus.
• Experience with programming (Python preferred), data analysis, and machine learning frameworks through coursework, research projects, or internships is highly desirable.
• Open to currently enrolled students or those who have graduated within one year of the internship start date.

Skills & Other Requirements

• Strong programming skills in Python (NumPy, Pandas, scikit-learn, PyTorch or TensorFlow preferred)
• Understanding of machine learning fundamentals (supervised and unsupervised learning)
• Familiarity with statistical methods and experimental design
• Experience with data visualization tools (Matplotlib, Seaborn, etc.)
• Ability to work with large datasets and perform feature engineering
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Team-oriented but capable of independent technical work
• Attention to detail in data analysis and model validation

Preferred but not required:

• Experience with semiconductor test data or manufacturing datasets
• Knowledge of DOE (Design of Experiments), SPC, or yield analysis
• Familiarity with SQL or manufacturing database systems

Additional Information

• Internship Duration: 10 – 14 weeks.
• At Coherent, interns are valued members of our team and have the opportunity to make meaningful contributions from day one. In addition to hands-on project experience, our internship program includes opportunities to connect with fellow interns and colleagues across the organization through virtual and in-person networking events, team-building activities and more. Interns are expected to actively participate in these events as part of their professional development and to fully immerse themselves in our collaborative and innovative culture.

Working Conditions

• This role will be based on-site in Fremont, CA.

• Regular use of a computer and other office equipment is necessary.

Physical Requirements

• Sitting for extended periods while working on a computer or in meetings.
• Use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling documents.
• Occasional lifting of objects or materials up to 20 pounds for administrative tasks.

•  Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.

Safety Requirements

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

Quality & Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

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.

If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at [email protected].

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. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!

Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.