Laser R&D Manager

Job Description

Manage a team of 8-12 scientists & engineers implementing advanced research projects and designing new lasers.

Effectively allocate the time of engineering resources between advanced technology projects and new product engineering activities.

In collaboration with the Engineering Director, further the CO 2 Lasers Technology Roadmap through implementation of basic research/technology projects.

Support NPI projects as they move through the early stages of the development cycle through R&D team leadership. The goal is to ensure a smooth transition from core technologies to new product initiation and concept development.

Ensure the team provides proper documentation of all technology development programs.

Collaborate with a larger team of optical, electronic, software, reliability, applications, marketing and research managers and professionals to tackle cross‑functional challenges.

Provide the second level of engineering response to production issues that cannot be managed by the product engineering staff, by effectively allocating engineering resources. Coach the team to provide rigorous basic problem solving support based on knowledge of the core science and technology of the system.

Identify opportunities and establish projects to improve product quality based on outstanding core science issues.

Effectively mentor and grow scientists and engineers on the team to become future technical and people leaders in the organization.

• CO 2 laser experience. Laser science and/or product development experience a plus.
• Experience with laser product development.
• Working knowledge of core laser science/engineering technical literature, and laser technology research and industry trends.
• Experience in mentoring and coaching junior scientists & engineers.

• Ph.D. degree in physics, materials science & engineering, electrical engineering, optical science & engineering, applied physics, or related fields, and >10 years of R&D program or people management experience.

• A well‑rounded individual with experience managing R&D teams or managing medium to large scale R&D/engineering programs.
• Mind‑set to constantly pursue the basic understanding or root cause of problems and to continually improve products and processes.
• Proven problem‑solving abilities (technical & non‑technical), utilizing both creativity and fundamental analytical skills.
• Personal time management, project management, and organizational skills. And the ability to create and clearly articulate work plans, schedules, and resource requirements.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with perspective and comfort in dealing with the big picture and business view of both project and the relationship with others.
• Ability to specify budgets, work scope, and allocate resources.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing, 6‑Sigma, and reliability principles is a plus.
• Responsive and reliable – Can be counted on by others.
• Identifies creative solutions/approaches to problems/projects.

• Office environment and work in a laboratory are expected.

• Work in a laser laboratory with potential occasional lifting of heavy equipment or parts.

All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.

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.

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,…