Photonics Technology Engineer

Coherent Corp. is the global leader in photonics, designing and manufacturing advanced laser, optical, and material technologies used by customers worldwide across industrial, communications, electronics, and instrumentation markets.

With a broad global footprint and deep engineering capability, we combine advanced manufacturing, applied innovation, and customer collaboration to deliver high-performance solutions that enable critical technologies and solve complex, real-world challenges.

About Coherent in Switzerland
Coherent Corp. Zurich is a key research and production hub specializing in advanced photonics, engineered materials, and high-power semiconductor laser technologies. Our teams develop and manufacture opto-electronic components and laser diodes for industrial, optical data transmission, life science, and high-precision applications, combining strong in-house R&D with state-of-the-art semiconductor manufacturing in an engineering-led culture.

Location: Zurich, Switzerland (Onsite) | Employment Type: Permanent, full-time

Job Summary

The Photonic Technology Engineer provides expertise in next generation optical semiconductor devices and data communication technologies. The role designs and optimizes photonic devices and identifies solutions that deliver best in class performance, reliability, and cost efficiency.

Working within an advanced research and development environment, you will combine semiconductor device physics, simulation, characterization, testing and data analysis to support the development of next generation semiconductor laser technologies and future photonic applications.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop new technologies for the next generation of advanced semiconductor lasers across device design, modelling, characterization, testing and implementation into future products.
• Perform physical modelling and simulation of existing and new semiconductor laser designs to validate new concepts and improve device performance.
• Support ongoing research and development projects through device design, characterization, testing, simulation and analysis of semiconductor laser data.
• Contribute to technology projects, taking responsibility for activities across the different stages of new technology development and transfer to production.
• Support product and process engineers by providing technical expertise in analyzing, isolating and solving problems.
• Document and communicate technical results and project status within the organization and, where appropriate, with external stakeholders.

Education & Experience

PhD in Physics, Photonics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science or a closely related field, or a relevant Master’s degree with 1 to 3 years of professional or research experience in a related field.

Skills & Other Requirements

• Strong technical foundation in semiconductor physics, with experience in semiconductor device design and simulation.
• Experience with characterization, testing and analysis of semiconductor or photonic devices.
• Proficiency in Python, FEM/FDTD simulation tools and data analysis.

• Experience with optical devices or semiconductor lasers is highly advantageous, particularly high speed characterization, RF measurements or high speed data transmission applications.

• You are results oriented, easy to adapt and with strong drive for accomplishment.

• Fluent English with strong verbal and written communication skills. German language skills are advantageous.

Application Process

All candidates who wish to apply should submit a CV and cover letter outlining their interest in the position and how their skills and experience align with the requirements of the role.

Applications for this role close end of day on Tuesday, 29 September 2026.

If you require any adjustments or accommodations during the application process, please reach out to [email protected]. We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible recruitment experience and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.