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 signoffs, the employee performs assigned production and equipment tasks independently. The role involves safely operating CVD production furnaces and support systems, handling process materials and H₂Se/H₂S gas cylinders, monitoring equipment and safety systems, recording operating data, and reporting abnormal conditions. Employees also conduct routine facility checks and follow applicable site, safety, regulatory, hazardous-waste, and environmental requirements. The position participates in Process Safety Management activities and the site Emergency Response Team, including required training such as 40-hour HAZWOPER and ongoing refreshers. Comprehensive on-the-job training is provided; prior experience with CVD systems or process materials is not required. The work takes place in an industrial manufacturing environment on rotating 12-hour shifts supporting continuous operations. It involves exposure to dust, fumes, heat, noise, and cold, as well as work with hazardous materials and required use of PPE and respiratory protection. Employees are expected to follow site EHS procedures and Coherent Corporate EHS standards, applicable quality and environmental management system responsibilities, and the company’s ICARE values. Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and provides a contact for disability-related assistance or accommodation.

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.
Effective 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.
Ability to complete required pre-employment and annual pulmonary function tests and respirator physicals.
Ability to use respirators, supplied air, and SCBA equipment as required.

Nice To Haves

Prior manufacturing, industrial, maintenance, or skilled trades experience.
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 a specialized role through training and experience.

Responsibilities

Learn to operate, monitor, and maintain CVD production equipment and supporting systems through structured training and documented qualifications.
Perform assigned production and equipment tasks independently after completing required training and individual signoffs.
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 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, completing required training and refreshers.
Follow site EHS procedures and Coherent Corporate EHS standards.
Depending on location, execute and maintain applicable quality and environmental management system standards.
Adhere to the company’s ICARE values.