Gas Production Operator trainee

Coherent • Saxonburg, PA

12d

About The Position

This is a hands-on manufacturing trainee role preparing the employee to become an H₂Se Systems Operator. The operator produces Hydrogen Selenide (H₂Se) gas and captures it in cylinders. No prior gas-production experience is required; structured, supervised on-the-job training and documented qualification processes are provided. The 12–18 month training program includes reviewing procedures and training materials, learning to operate and maintain H₂Se processes and support equipment, and completing required tests and signoffs. A one-level pay increase follows successful completion of the program.

Employees initially work under supervision and gradually transition to independent work after meeting training milestones. The role requires careful adherence to operating, safety, quality, and environmental procedures while working with hazardous materials in an industrial manufacturing environment. Because of ITAR requirements, applicants must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or otherwise protected individuals under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3).

The position supports a 24/5 operation with multiple shift rotations and a four-day work week. The environment may involve dust, fumes, heat, noise, and cold. Required safety equipment includes PPE and, when applicable, respirators, supplied air, and SCBA. Employees must complete required pre-employment and annual pulmonary function and respirator physicals, and emergency-response training, including required HAZWOPER training.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or protected-individual status under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), due to ITAR requirements.
• Ability to follow detailed procedures and safety requirements consistently.
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with tools, equipment, and process systems.
• Reliability, attention to detail, and ability to retain technical and safety-related information.
• 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.
• Ability to stand or sit for up to 12 hours per shift; occasionally lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds; climb, bend, reach, and work on ladders or mechanical lifts; and wear required PPE for extended periods.
• Ability to meet physical requirements for Emergency Response Team participation.
• Ability to complete required pre-employment and annual pulmonary function and respirator physicals.
• Ability to use respirators, supplied air, and SCBA equipment as required.
• Completion of required emergency-response training, such as 40-hour HAZWOPER, and ongoing refresher training.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in manufacturing, industrial work, maintenance, or skilled trades; such experience is helpful but not required.
• Hands-on experience in manufacturing, maintenance, construction, utilities, automotive, skilled trades, or the military.
• Motivation to learn technical processes and qualify as an operator through training and experience.

Responsibilities

• Learn to operate, monitor, and maintain H₂Se gas production equipment and supporting systems through structured 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 according to 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.
• Follow 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 in the Coherent Saxonburg Site Emergency Response Team, including required training and refresher requirements.
• Follow applicable quality-assurance policies and participate in audits supporting ISO 9001 certification.
• Comply with site EHS procedures and Coherent Corporate EHS standards, and adhere to the company’s ICARE values.

Benefits

• Company bonuses.
• Three weeks of paid time off (PTO) accrual to start.
• Five days of paid sick time off.
• Paid holidays.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Employee Stock Purchase Program.
• Company-paid life insurance.
• Annual performance review with merit increase.
• Company-supplied boots, uniforms, and safety equipment.
• One-level pay increase upon completion of the 12–18 month training program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED