Intern – Mechanical Engineering (Fusion Project)

Location: Santa Clara, CA, United States

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Mechanical Engineering Intern to join our team for Summer 2026. In this role, the intern will support the development of mechanical tooling and test infrastructure for high-power semiconductor laser stack technology used in fusion energy applications. The intern will gain hands-on experience in CAD design, engineering documentation, and laboratory testing while working alongside experienced engineers on real manufacturing and R&D projects.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Create and update mechanical drawings and tooling designs using CAD software such as SolidWorks.
• Support the design and documentation of tooling used in Fusion laser stack assembly and testing.
• Assist engineers in preparing engineering drawings, part lists, and documentation for fabrication.
• Support setup and execution of Fusion stack testing activities at the PTH facility.
• Assist with mechanical inspection, measurement, and documentation of prototype components.
• Collaborate with engineers and technicians to improve tooling designs and test processes.
• Document project progress and present a summary of internship work at the end of the program.

Education & Experience

• Education Level Required: Bachelor's
• Majors: Mechanical Engineering
• Relevant coursework or extracurricular experience in CAD design, mechanical systems, manufacturing, or laboratory testing is a plus. 
• Open to currently enrolled students or those who have graduated within one year of the internship start date.

Skills

• Experience with CAD tools such as SolidWorks or similar 3D modeling software.
• Basic understanding of mechanical design and engineering drawings.
• Strong attention to detail and documentation skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Interested in hands-on engineering work and laboratory testing.
• Basic programming experience (LabVIEW, Python, MATLAB, or similar). 
• 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.

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 Santa Clara, California.
• 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. 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.


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