Manufacturing Process Operator Trainee

Coherent•Saxonburg, PA

About The Position

The Manufacturing Process Operator Trainee learns to operate, monitor, and maintain CVD production equipment and supporting systems through structured on-the-job training and documented qualification processes. After completing required training and individual sign-offs, the employee performs assigned production and equipment tasks independently. The role includes safely operating CVD production furnaces and support systems, handling process materials and H₂Se/H₂S gas cylinders, monitoring equipment and safety systems, logging operating data, reporting abnormal conditions, and performing routine facility checks. The position works in a safety-focused industrial manufacturing environment involving hazardous materials. The operator follows site procedures and regulatory requirements, participates in Process Safety Management activities, and complies with OSHA PSM, EPA Risk Management Plan, and applicable site and DEP hazardous-waste standards. The employee also serves on the Coherent Saxonburg Site Emergency Response Team, completing required training such as 40-hour HAZWOPER and ongoing refreshers. Comprehensive on-the-job training is provided; prior CVD experience is not required. The position supports a 24/7/365 operation and involves rotating shifts. Work may involve exposure to dust, fumes, heat, noise, and cold, and requires use of prescribed PPE, respirators, supplied air, or SCBA when required.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Ability to work rotating shifts in an industrial environment.
Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with tools, equipment, and process systems.
Ability to follow detailed procedures and perform work safely and correctly.
Reliability, attention to detail, and ability to retain technical and safety-related information.
Good communication with teammates, supervisors, and support groups.
Basic computer skills for data entry, logging, and equipment interfaces.
Ability to stand or sit for up to 12 hours per shift.
Ability to occasionally lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds.
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.
Ability to meet physical requirements for Emergency Response Team participation.
Compliance with site EHS procedures and Coherent Corporate EHS standards.
Use of required PPE, which may include safety glasses, goggles, splash shields, steel-toe/metatarsal footwear, long pants, sleeved uniform, hearing protection, dust mask, respirator, or supplied air.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in manufacturing, industrial work, maintenance, or skilled trades is helpful but not required.
Experience in manufacturing, maintenance, construction, utilities, automotive, skilled trades, military, or other hands-on roles.
A strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and interest in becoming a qualified operator through training and experience.

Responsibilities

Learn to operate, monitor, and maintain CVD production equipment and supporting systems through structured training and documented qualification processes.
Perform assigned production and equipment tasks independently after required training and individual sign-offs.
Safely operate CVD production furnaces and support systems in accordance with established procedures.
Handle and store process materials and H₂Se/H₂S 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 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 refresher training.
Comply with site EHS procedures and Coherent Corporate EHS standards.
Depending on location and role, execute and maintain applicable quality and environmental management system standards.
Adhere to Coherent Corp.’s ICARE values.