About Indium Phosphide (InP) Technology
The world’s communications infrastructure depends on semiconductor lasers, and particularly those based on indium phosphide technology. Indium phosphide lasers are engineered to emit at wavelengths that are optimal for long-distance transmission through fiber optics. In short, they enable the optical networks that form the global internet.
Coherent’s broad portfolio of InP components includes application-specific Fabry-Pérot lasers, directly modulated lasers (DMLs), and tunable lasers. It also includes photodiodes for high-speed receivers and power monitoring. In 2022, we introduced 200 Gbps indium phosphide electro-absorption modulated lasers (EMLs) for high-speed datacenter transceivers. This design provides our customers with the most advanced, robust, and cost-competitive laser devices for their 800G and next-gen 1.6T datacom transceiver designs.
Our world-class and highly reliable InP technology platform is one of the very few in the industry that has been proven, with more than one hundred million lasers in the field deployed over the last decades.
The Product Development Associate Engineer supports product development and customer enablement activities for semiconductor laser and photonic devices. The role focuses on disciplined execution of device-level characterization, optical component evaluation, customer sample preparation, and reliability support under established procedures and engineering guidance. This position requires strong attention to detail, consistent execution of defined workflows, and the ability to learn new tools and characterization methods quickly. She / he works closely with product engineers and cross-functional teams to ensure accurate data generation, reliable sample handling, and timely execution of development and customer-facing deliverables.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
- BS degree or equivalent technical training and experience
- Minimum 1-2 years of experience ideal in a semiconductor, optics, or related technical laboratory or manufacturing environment
- Prior exposure to device characterization, optics, reliability testing, or development support activities preferred
- Demonstrated ability to follow structured procedures with consistency and precision
- Proven capability to learn new tools, techniques, and workflows quickly in a development environment
Education & Experience
- BS degree or equivalent technical training and experience
- Minimum 1-2 years of experience ideal in a semiconductor, optics, or related technical laboratory or manufacturing environment
- Prior exposure to device characterization, optics, reliability testing, or development support activities preferred
- Demonstrated ability to follow structured procedures with consistency and precision
- Proven capability to learn new tools, techniques, and workflows quickly in a development environment
Skills
- High level of discipline in executing procedures and handling devices and optical components
- Strong attention to detail and consistency in repetitive technical tasks
- Ability to rapidly learn and adopt new characterization methods and tools
- Comfortable working with delicate semiconductor devices and optical components
- Clear written and verbal communication skills
- Strong organizational skills for managing samples, test data, and documentation
- Team-oriented mindset with the ability to work effectively with engineers and cross-functional partners
- Positive, adaptable attitude in a fast-paced R&D environment.
Working Conditions
- Work performed in cleanroom environments and R&D characterization laboratories
- Hands-on operation of electrical, optical, and mechanical test equipment
- Occasional schedule flexibility may be required to support development or customer needs
Physical Requirements
- Able to work effectively in cleanroom environments
- Able to stand and work for most of the workday
- Able to pass yearly physical and SCBA respirator mask fit test for respiratory safety
Safety Requirements
All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.
Quality and Environmental Responsibilities
Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.
Culture Commitment
Ensure adherence to company’s values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:
Integrity – Create an Environment of Trust
Collaboration – Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas
Accountability – Own the Process and the Outcome
Respect – Recognize the Value in Everyone
Enthusiasm – Find a Sense of Purpose in Work
Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at [email protected].
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.
Skills Required
- BS degree or equivalent technical training and experience
- 6+ years of experience in semiconductor or optics
- Prior exposure to device characterization or development support
- Ability to follow structured procedures consistently
- Capability to learn new tools and techniques quickly
Coherent Corp. Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Coherent Corp. and has not been reviewed or approved by Coherent Corp..
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Healthcare Strength — Healthcare Strength: Health coverage includes multiple national and region-specific options (UHC HDHP/HSA, PPO, EPO; Kaiser in CA; Health Net in OR) plus separate dental (Delta Dental) and vision (VSP), indicating strong breadth and choice. This breadth supports a solid total package in certain roles and locations.
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Equity Value & Accessibility — Equity Value & Accessibility: An Employee Stock Purchase Plan allows buying shares at 85% of market price with contributions up to 10% of pay, expanding ownership access. This feature can materially bolster total rewards even when base pay is mid‑pack.
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — Leave & Time Off Breadth: Paid time off includes 15 vacation days for new hires, 10 paid holidays, and additional paid time during a December shutdown. This structure provides a clear and competitive baseline for time away from work.
Coherent Corp. Insights
What We Do
Coherent empowers market innovators to define the future through breakthrough technologies, from materials to systems. We deliver innovations that resonate with our customers in diversified applications for the industrial, communications, electronics, and instrumentation markets. Headquartered in Saxonburg, Pennsylvania, Coherent has research and development, manufacturing, sales, service, and distribution facilities worldwide. For more information, please visit us at coherent.com.








