Staff Engineer, Process

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Partner with operators, production supervisors, engineers, and R&D teams to improve manufacturing processes and product quality
• Spend significant time on the production floor observing processes, troubleshooting issues, and identifying improvement opportunities
• Lead and support process improvement projects focused on yield improvement, scrap reduction, throughput, and quality
• Investigate process and product issues using structured problem-solving techniques and data-driven decision making
• Develop and execute experiments to better understand process behavior and improve manufacturing performance
• Support the transfer of manufacturing processes between facilities and help ensure successful implementation across sites
• Build expertise in ceramic forming processes, thermal processing, and advanced materials manufacturing
• Document process improvements and support the development of manufacturing procedures and best practices
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to introduce new products and technologies into manufacturing
• Take ownership of projects from problem identification through implementation and follow-up

What success looks like

• Successfully contribute to one or more process transfer initiatives
• Deliver measurable improvements in yield, scrap reduction, throughput, or process capability
• Develop a strong understanding of ceramic forming and thermal processing fundamentals
• Become a trusted resource for operators, supervisors, and engineering colleagues
• Demonstrate independent ownership of projects and deliver results

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Ceramic Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related discipline
• 2-5 years of engineering, manufacturing, process development, or related experience
• Manufacturing, process engineering, internship, or co-op experience preferred

Skills & Other Requirements

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while knowing when to seek input from others
• Experience with data analysis, DOE, SPC, Lean Manufacturing, or Six Sigma methodologies preferred
• Experience working in a production environment preferred
• Exposure to materials processing, thermal processing, or advanced manufacturing technologies preferred
• Naturally curious and enjoys understanding how things work
• Comfortable learning through experimentation and hands-on problem solving
• Takes ownership and follows through on commitments
• Prefers solving problems at the source rather than from behind a desk
• Willing to challenge assumptions respectfully when data or observations suggest a better approach
• Enjoys working as part of a team and building strong relationships across functions

Bonus Qualifications

Evidence of hands-on interests and a passion for building, making, repairing, or improving things, such as:

• Woodworking
• Automotive projects
• Robotics
• Fabrication
• Machining
• 3D printing
• Competitive engineering teams
• Personal technical projects

Working Conditions

Office and manufacturing floor environment with regular interaction with production processes and equipment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to occasionally lift/push/pull up to 20 lbs.
• Able to sit, stand, bend, squat and walk about the facility.
• Ability to work safely around manufacturing equipment

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to attend scheduled training, follow the site EHS procedures and Corporate EHS standards. This includes the use of proper protective equipment (PPE) as required by the job responsibilities.

Managers will ensure that all safety and environmental procedures are followed consistently. They will ensure that risk assessments are performed, proper training, work instructions, required PPE is available, and will monitor compliance.

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:

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].