Mechanical Design Engineer

Location: Zurich, Switzerland

Coherent Corp. is the global leader in photonics, designing and manufacturing advanced laser, optical, and material technologies used by customers worldwide across industrial, communications, electronics, and instrumentation markets.

With a broad global footprint and deep engineering capability, we combine advanced manufacturing, applied innovation, and customer collaboration to deliver high-performance solutions that enable critical technologies and solve complex, real-world challenges.

About Coherent in Switzerland

Coherent Corp. Zurich is a key research and production hub specializing in advanced photonics, engineered materials, and high-power semiconductor laser technologies. Our teams develop and manufacture opto-electronic components and laser diodes for industrial, optical data transmission, life science, and high-precision applications, combining strong in-house R&D with state-of-the-art semiconductor manufacturing in an engineering-led culture.

 Zurich, Switzerland (Onsite) | Employment Type: Permanent, full-time

Job Summary

As a Mechanical Design Engineer, you will design and develop advanced manufacturing tooling, fixtures, and production systems that enable the manufacture of cutting-edge semiconductor laser technologies.

This is a hands-on engineering role focused on the development of complete manufacturing systems, from initial concept and CAD design through prototype builds, pilot production equipment, and release into manufacturing. Working closely with production, engineering teams, suppliers, and external partners, you will play a key role in creating innovative mechanical solutions that support both prototype and high-volume semiconductor manufacturing environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, document, and release complex industrial systems used in the manufacture of semiconductor laser technologies

• Design complete manufacturing systems, including mechanical assemblies, pneumatics, vacuum systems, cooling solutions, and production tooling

• Create detailed manufacturing documentation, engineering drawings, bills of materials, and technical release packages

• Manage the procurement of components and coordinate with suppliers throughout the development process

• Develop and implement pilot production equipment, prototypes, and manufacturing fixtures

• Support ongoing process development and continuous improvement activities within manufacturing operations

• Troubleshoot equipment and process challenges, identifying practical and effective engineering solutions

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders across engineering, manufacturing, and operations teams, as well as external suppliers and partners

• Provide technical expertise and engineering support to various organizational units and manufacturing projects

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related engineering discipline

  OR

• Technical apprenticeship in Mechanical Design, Polymechanics, Mechatronics, or a related field, combined with further education as an HF or FH Engineer

• 2-3 of experience designing and developing manufacturing equipment, production tooling, or special-purpose machinery

Skills & Other Requirements

• Strong experience with CAD systems, preferably SolidWorks

• Experience designing and developing complete mechanical systems rather than individual components

• Knowledge of pneumatics, vacuum technology, cooling systems, or industrial manufacturing equipment

• Basic understanding of electrical engineering principles and electromechanical systems

• Ability to independently manage projects and drive engineering solutions from concept through implementation

• Structured, precise, and solution-oriented approach to problem-solving

• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across functions

• Fluent German (minimum C1 level) and basic working proficiency in English

• Hands-on mindset with a passion for building, testing, and improving real-world engineering solutions

 

Application Process

All candidates who wish to apply should submit a CV and cover letter outlining their interest in the position and how their skills and experience align with the requirements of the role.

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.


As a Mechanical Design Engineer, you will design and develop advanced manufacturing tooling, fixtures, and production systems that enable the manufacture of cutting-edge semiconductor laser technologies. This is a hands-on engineering role focused on the development of complete manufacturing systems, from initial concept and CAD design through prototype builds, pilot production equipment, and release into manufacturing. Working closely with production, engineering teams, suppliers, and external partners, you will play a key role in creating innovative mechanical solutions that support both prototype and high-volume semiconductor manufacturing environments.