Intern, Engineering

Location: Saxonburg, PA, United States

Job Summary

This position will directly work with senior process engineer(s) doing new product/process development in the thin film coating department.  Thin film coatings work with high vacuum and specialized equipment for the deposition and control of optical thin films using a variety of methods including CVD, e-beam, Ion beams and thermal evaporation

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Engineering Intern to join our Thin Film Engineering team for Summer 2026. In this role, you will gain hands-on experience in process development and machine assembly, work alongside industry professionals, and contribute to meaningful projects that support our team and company objectives.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

 

• The right candidate will perform experiments, do the testing and collaborate with other engineers and manufacturing personal
• The person needs to be hands on and mechanically inclined.
• There will be interdepartmental interactions for testing and validation of these experiments
• Use of spectrophotometers, computers and engineering software will be expected. 
• light lifting of more than 10ibs but less than 30ibs will be required on occasion
• A detailed final presentation will be expected at the end of the summer.

 

Education & Experience

 

• Ideally the candidate will have completed 3 years of a bachelors degree or has finished their bachelors and is continuing on to a Masters program
• We are looking for a person pursuing an engineering degree, a degree in physics or material science
• Hands on experience in light fabrication a plus
• Candidate should have some abilities to make 2-D CAD drawings
• The use of hand tools and light shop equipment will be required
• Open to currently enrolled students or those who have graduated within one year of the internship start date.

Skills & Other Requirements

 

• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Team-oriented but able to work independently when needed.
• Adaptable and eager to learn in a fast-paced environment.
• Attention to detail and time management.
• Skills, like Excel, programming, design tools, etc
• 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 [Insert work location].
• 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 30 pounds for occasional tasks.
• Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.
• Proper use of PPE 

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.

 

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.


Intern (engineering) Thin Film Coating department at Coherent Saxonburg facility