Production Development Engineer

Location: Fremont, CA, United States

About Indium Phosphide (InP) Technology
The world’s communications infrastructure depends on semiconductor lasers, and particularly those based on indium phosphide technology. Indium phosphide lasers are engineered to emit at wavelengths that are optimal for long-distance transmission through fiber optics. In short, they enable the optical networks that form the global internet.

Coherent’s broad portfolio of InP components includes application-specific Fabry-Pérot lasers, directly modulated lasers (DMLs), and tunable lasers. It also includes photodiodes for high-speed receivers and power monitoring. In 2022, we introduced 200 Gbps indium phosphide electro-absorption modulated lasers (EMLs) for high-speed datacenter transceivers. This design provides our customers with the most advanced, robust, and cost-competitive laser devices for their 800G and next-gen 1.6T datacom transceiver designs. 

Our world-class and highly reliable InP technology platform is one of the very few in the industry that has been proven, with more than one hundred million lasers in the field deployed over the last decades.

The Product Development Associate Engineer supports product development and customer enablement activities for semiconductor laser and photonic devices. The role focuses on disciplined execution of device-level characterization, optical component evaluation, customer sample preparation, and reliability support under established procedures and engineering guidance. This position requires strong attention to detail, consistent execution of defined workflows, and the ability to learn new tools and characterization methods quickly. She / he works closely with product engineers and cross-functional teams to ensure accurate data generation, reliable sample handling, and timely execution of development and customer-facing deliverables.

 

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• BS degree or equivalent technical training and experience
• 6+ years of experience in a semiconductor, optics, or related technical laboratory or manufacturing environment
• Prior exposure to device characterization, optics, reliability testing, or development support activities preferred
• Demonstrated ability to follow structured procedures with consistency and precision
• Proven capability to learn new tools, techniques, and workflows quickly in a development environment

Education & Experience

• BS degree or equivalent technical training and experience
• 6+ years of experience in a semiconductor, optics, or related technical laboratory or manufacturing environment
• Prior exposure to device characterization, optics, reliability testing, or development support activities preferred
• Demonstrated ability to follow structured procedures with consistency and precision
• Proven capability to learn new tools, techniques, and workflows quickly in a development environment

Skills

• High level of discipline in executing procedures and handling devices and optical components
• Strong attention to detail and consistency in repetitive technical tasks
• Ability to rapidly learn and adopt new characterization methods and tools
• Comfortable working with delicate semiconductor devices and optical components
• Clear written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational skills for managing samples, test data, and documentation
• Team-oriented mindset with the ability to work effectively with engineers and cross-functional partners
• Positive, adaptable attitude in a fast-paced R&D environment.

Working Conditions

• Work performed in cleanroom environments and R&D characterization laboratories
• Hands-on operation of electrical, optical, and mechanical test equipment
• Occasional schedule flexibility may be required to support development or customer needs

Physical Requirements

• Able to work effectively in cleanroom environments
• Able to stand and work for most of the workday
• Able to pass yearly physical and SCBA respirator mask fit test for respiratory safety

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.