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, recording operating data, reporting abnormal conditions, and performing routine facility checks. The position requires strict compliance with safety procedures and participation in Process Safety Management activities, OSHA PSM and EPA Risk Management Plan requirements, and site and DEP hazardous-waste standards. The employee also serves on the Coherent Saxonburg Site Emergency Response Team (ERT), completing required training such as 40-hour HAZWOPER and ongoing refreshers. Comprehensive on-the-job training is provided; prior CVD experience is not needed. This role supports a 24/7/365 industrial manufacturing operation with rotating shifts. The work environment may include dust, fumes, heat, noise, cold, and hazardous materials. Respirators, supplied air, and SCBA equipment are required. Employees must follow site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards, as well as applicable quality and environmental management system requirements. Employees are expected to uphold the company’s ICARE values.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Ability to follow detailed procedures and consistently perform work safely and correctly.
Reliability, attention to detail, and ability to retain technical and safety-related information.
Comfort working rotating shifts in an industrial environment.
Ability to communicate 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 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.
Ability to meet physical requirements for required Emergency Response Team participation.
Ability and willingness to complete required emergency response training, such as 40-hour HAZWOPER, and ongoing refreshers.
Ability to use respirators, supplied air, and SCBA equipment as required.
Follow applicable site safety procedures and standards.

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.
Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with tools, equipment, and process systems.
Strong work ethic and willingness to learn technical processes in a structured, safety-focused environment.
Interest in learning a specialized role and 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 completing required training and individual sign-offs.
Safely operate CVD production furnaces and support systems in compliance 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, 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 site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.
Depending on location, execute and maintain applicable quality and environmental management system standards.
Adhere to the company’s ICARE values.