Gas Production Operator trainee

Coherent Corp.•Clinton Township, PA

About The Position

This is a hands-on manufacturing role training the employee to become an H₂Se Systems Operator, producing hydrogen selenide gas and capturing it in cylinders. No prior gas production experience is required. The employee will complete a formal 12–18 month training program, review procedures and training materials, learn to operate and maintain H₂Se processes and support equipment under supervision, and pass required tests and qualification signoffs. Upon completion of training milestones, the employee transitions to independent work and receives a one-level pay increase. The role is performed in an industrial manufacturing environment supporting 24/5 operations through multiple shift rotations. Work involves hazardous materials and exposure to dust, fumes, heat, noise, and cold, with strict safety procedures. Use of respirators, supplied air, and SCBA equipment is required. The position requires participation in the site Emergency Response Team and completion of required training, including 40-hour HAZWOPER and refreshers. ITAR requirements limit eligibility to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or protected individuals under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3).

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Ability to follow detailed procedures and understand the importance of safe, correct work.
Strong safety awareness, attention to detail, reliability, and ability to retain technical and safety-related information.
Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with tools, equipment, and process systems.
Ability to communicate with teammates, supervisors, and support groups.
Basic computer skills for data entry, logging, and equipment interfaces.
Comfort working rotating shifts in an industrial environment.
Eligibility under ITAR requirements: U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or protected individual under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3).
Ability to stand or sit for up to 12 hours per shift.
Ability to occasionally lift, push, or pull up to 50 lbs.
Ability to climb, bend, reach, push, pull, and work on ladders or mechanical lifts.
Ability to wear required PPE and safety equipment for extended periods and meet physical requirements for Emergency Response Team participation.
Complete pre-employment and annual PFT and respirator physicals.

Nice To Haves

Prior manufacturing, industrial, maintenance, or skilled trades experience is helpful but not required.
Experience in manufacturing, maintenance, construction, utilities, automotive, skilled trades, military, or other hands-on roles.

Responsibilities

Learn to operate, monitor, and maintain H₂Se gas production equipment and supporting systems through structured on-the-job training and documented qualification processes.
Perform assigned production and equipment tasks independently after completing required training and individual signoffs.
Safely operate H₂Se gas production reactors and support systems in compliance with established procedures.
Handle and store process materials and H₂Se gas cylinders according to training, site procedures, and regulatory requirements.
Monitor equipment, processes, and safety systems; accurately log operating data and report abnormal conditions.
Perform routine facility checks and follow reporting requirements.
Adhere to safety procedures, policies, and protocols when working with hazardous materials.
Participate in Process Safety Management activities and comply with OSHA PSM and EPA Risk Management Plan requirements.
Learn and follow site and DEP standards for hazardous waste handling and storage.
Participate as a member of the Coherent Saxonburg Site Emergency Response Team, including required training and ongoing refreshers.
Follow applicable Quality Assurance policies and participate in audits to maintain ISO 9001 certification.
Comply with site EHS procedures and Coherent Corporate EHS standards, and adhere to company values.