RF Induction Systems Engineer – Crystal Growth & Melting Equipment

Key Responsibilities

RF System Design & Development

• Design and optimize current RF induction heating systems (typically 1-50 kHz range)
• Develop and tune series and parallel resonant circuits for high-power operation
• Specify and integrate RF generators, matching networks, and capacitor banks
• Design and optimize induction coils for thermal profile and coupling efficiency

Process & Equipment Engineering

• Support and develop crystal growth melting systems
• Optimize thermal gradients, melt stability, and power delivery
• Integrate RF systems with crystal growth platforms (e.g., CZ, HEM, skull melting)
• Develop process recipes and operating envelopes for different materials

Modeling & Simulation

• Perform electromagnetic and thermal simulations (e.g., COMSOL, ANSYS)
• Model coupling efficiency, current distribution, and heating profiles
• Analyze load-dependent impedance behavior and resonance shifts

System Tuning & Troubleshooting

• Lead tuning of RF systems under dynamic load conditions
• Diagnose issues related to:
  • detuning and reflected power
  • instability and oscillation
  • coil overheating and inefficiency
• Optimize performance across full process cycle (cold start → melt → steady-state)

Hardware Integration

• Design and review:
  • coil assemblies
  • cooling systems (water-cooled copper structures)
  • bus bars and power delivery systems
• Ensure robust high-current, low-loss electrical connections

Testing & Validation

• Develop test plans and validation procedures
• Analyze system performance using:
  • current/voltage measurements
  • phase and impedance analysis
  • thermal diagnostics
• Lead commissioning of new equipment and upgrades

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work with materials scientists, process engineers, and mechanical teams
• Support scale-up from R&D to production systems
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in RF power systems, induction heating, or high-power electronics
• Strong understanding of:
  • resonant circuits (series and parallel)
  • impedance matching
  • RF power delivery systems
• Hands-on experience with induction heating systems (kHz range preferred)
• Experience with high-temperature or vacuum systems

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with crystal growth systems (CZ, HEM, skull melting, Bridgman)
• Familiarity with reactive oxide or semiconductor materials
• Experience with COMSOL, ANSYS Maxwell, or similar tools
• Knowledge of:
  • thermal management and cooling design
  • high-current bus design
  • vacuum and controlled atmosphere systems
• Experience working with RF generators (solid-state or tube-based)

Key Skills

• RF system tuning and optimization
• Electromagnetic and thermal analysis
• Troubleshooting complex coupled systems
• Hands-on experimental and debugging skills
• Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking

Working Environment

• Combination of lab, pilot production, and engineering design environment
• Exposure to high-temperature systems, high current RF equipment, and vacuum systems
• Requires hands-on work with experimental setups and industrial-scale equipment

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.

If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at [email protected].