Equipment Engineer – Wet Engineer

Location: Sherman, TX, United States

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Own and maintain wet process equipment including wet etch systems, solvent spray/lift-off tools, spray acid tools, spin rinse dryers, and CMP/polisher systems
• Work with EHS and Safety teams to ensure safe operating measures, chemical handling protocols, and equipment safeguards are implemented and maintained.
• Collaborate with Process Engineers to support new process development, tool characterization, and data-driven improvement initiatives.
• Partner with Operations to understand production priorities, provide tool status updates in daily operations meetings, and develop recovery and maintenance plans.
• Identify and implement process and equipment improvements that yield safer, higher-quality, and more efficient operations with improved uptime.
• Develop and execute preventive maintenance programs to minimize unplanned downtime and improve tool reliability.
• Lead and mentor technicians on complex tool troubleshooting, PM execution, and documentation practices.
• Support capital projects and work closely with facilities and construction teams to plan and execute new tool installations, upgrades, and relocations.
• Identify, procure, and maintain critical spares lists to support sustained uptime.
• Build and maintain vendor relationships for technical support, spare parts, and capability enhancements.
• Develop and maintain project schedules, ensuring work is completed on time and within scope.
• Provide timely communication to management on tool performance, project progress, and any potential risks.
• Participate in root cause analysis (5Y, 8D) and drive corrective and preventive actions to closure.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives aligned with site-wide manufacturing and quality objectives.
• Travel domestically or internationally as required for tool installations, upgrades, or vendor training.
• Carry company-issued communication devices to provide 24/7 factory support as needed.

Education & Experience

Preferred Minimum Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Electronics, or related field preferred.
• Equivalent semiconductor experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.

Expected Minimum Years of Related Experience

• 5+ of experience working on wet process or related semiconductor equipment.

Preferred Equipment Experience:

• Spin Rinse Dryers (SRDs), Wet Benches, Solvent Spray/Lift-Off Systems, Spray Acid Tools, CMP Polishers, and related support systems.

Skills

• Strong understanding of chemical process safety and safe work practices with acids, solvents, and chemical delivery systems.
• Proficient in reading mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic schematics and interpreting process flow diagrams.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex tool issues to root cause and implement sustainable solutions.
• Knowledge of vacuum and pump systems, fluid delivery, filtration, and temperature control subsystems.
• Experienced with preventive maintenance program development and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Competent in data analysis and statistical process control (SPC) techniques.
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills—able to balance multiple priorities effectively.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and familiar with maintenance tracking systems (e.g., Camstar or equivalent).
• Ability to lead by example and mentor technicians in technical skill development and professional growth.
• Self-motivated, dependable, and capable of working independently or in a collaborative cross-functional team.

Working Conditions

• Work primarily in a Class 100/1000 cleanroom environment ~ 80%.
• Wear full cleanroom attire and comply with all safety and contamination control protocols.
• Work with and/or around hazardous and non-hazardous chemicals and gases.
• Stand for extended periods; lift up to 50 pounds or push/pull up to 150 pounds.
• Ability to work flexible schedules to support a 24/7 manufacturing environment.

Physical Requirements

• Work primarily in a Class 100/1000 cleanroom environment ~ 80%.
• Wear full cleanroom attire and comply with all safety and contamination control protocols.
• Work with and/or around hazardous and non-hazardous chemicals and gases.
• Stand for extended periods; lift up to 50 pounds or push/pull up to 150 pounds.
• Ability to work flexible schedules to support a 24/7 manufacturing environment.

Safety Requirements

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

Quality and 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.

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.


Job Summary: The Wet Process Equipment Engineer is responsible for ensuring that all wet process and tools operate safely, efficiently, and at optimal performance levels. This includes ownership of wet etch systems, solvent spray/lift-off tools, spray acid tools, spin rinse dryers, and CMP/polisher systems. The engineer will work closely with Safety, Process Engineering, and Operations teams to establish safe operating conditions, support process development, and maximize tool uptime and yield. The position also involves mentoring technicians, driving improvement initiatives, and leading projects for tool upgrades, installs, and capability enhancements.