Senior Manager, Operations

Coherent Corp.; Sunnyvale (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Coherent Corp. is seeking a candidate for a technical management role focused on the supervision of lab personnel and the management of customer-facing lab environments in Sunnyvale, California. The ideal candidate will have at least 7 years of experience in the optical industry, a relevant bachelor's degree, and a strong ability to solve technical issues. Duties include planning lab operations, coordinating equipment setup, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in technical roles in the communications and optical industry.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Customer-facing experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage and supervise lab personnel.
• Plan and maintain customer-facing lab environments.
• Coordinate equipment procurement and oversee installation.

Skills

Attention to detail

Proficiency with semi-automated processing tools

Understanding of machining concepts

Excellent interpersonal skills

Ability to work under pressure

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field

Master’s degree or higher

Tools

Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) such as CAMSTAR

MS Excel

MS Word

Job description

Responsibilities

• Day‑to‑day management and supervision of assigned lab environment personnel.
• Plan, design, implement, and manage a customer‑facing lab environment showcasing networking products and technologies, including servers, network switches, monitoring tools, and supporting infrastructure.
• Define lab requirements, coordinate equipment procurement, and oversee installation, configuration, and operational readiness.
• Collaborate with internal teams to develop and deliver interactive demonstrations that highlight product capabilities and solutions.
• Partner with cross‑functional teams to create and maintain passive product displays, including hardware setups and technical signage within the lab.
• Recruit, screen, hire, train, retain, and discipline direct labor, and manage timecards, PTO, reviews, and performance improvements.
• Plan and schedule overtime when necessary.
• Coordinate material, equipment, facilities, and labor to achieve production targets and manage constraints.
• Report shift outputs, conduct pass‑down meetings, and communicate daily/weekly shift goals to personnel.
• Work collaboratively with Process Engineering, R&D, Quality, Planning, Facilities, and Equipment Maintenance to achieve output targets and provide input for improvement.
• Plan shift schedules to meet production and maintenance targets, maximizing resource contributions.
• Organize employee training and development through operator appraisals.
• Ensure Health & Safety standards and clean‑room protocols are adhered to.
• Provide accurate information regarding production & engineering issues to the appropriate supervisor or manager.
• Analyze manufacturing information and implement required actions to reach goals.
• Promote quality awareness and encourage ideas for improvement.
• Maintain a consistent and fair approach to all shift personnel and promote formalized procedures.
• Respond to business needs by scheduling WIP and maintenance to meet desired output.
• Experience with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) such as CAMSTAR and Product Data Management (PDM) systems such as Agile; proficient in MS Excel, Word, PowerPoint.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Optics, Physics, Electronics or a related field (or equivalent practical experience); Master’s degree or higher preferred.
• 7 + years of experience in the communications and optical industry in technical roles (manufacturing).
• Strong problem‑solving and technical troubleshooting skills in complex environments.
• Customer‑facing experience is a plus, with the ability to communicate technical concepts clearly and effectively.

Skills

• Attention to detail and meticulous data entry.
• Proficiency with semi‑automated and automated processing tools.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Ability to speak, read, write, and comprehend English.
• Integrity and self‑motivation.
• Capacity to work in a fast‑paced team and in independent settings within a clean room.
• Knowledge of machining, construction, and electrical concepts.
• Operational control on a shift: implementing remedial action to sustain committed wafer throughput and quality, recording pertinent information, allocating resources, providing constructive instructions, motivating personnel, and maintaining a consistent supervisory approach.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to prioritize available time, adapt to changing circumstances, and be reliable and punctual.
• Fair and approachable attitude.

Working Conditions

• Position is onsite; may require occasional off‑site meetings.
• Regular use of a computer and other office equipment.
• Interaction with team members and external contacts is a regular part of the job.
• May require occasional overtime and flexibility in work hours.

Physical Requirements

• Sitting for extended periods while working on a computer or conducting meetings.
• Use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling documents.
• Occasional lifting of objects or materials up to 20 pounds for administrative tasks.
• Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.
• Mobility within the office environment to attend meetings or interact with colleagues.

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 ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

• 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.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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 [e-mail].