Process Improvement Manager Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Execute process development and process improvement experiments under the direction of Process Engineering 
• Prepare equipment, tooling, fixtures, materials, and documentation required for trials and evaluations 
• Independently run manufacturing and engineering trials while ensuring accurate execution of experimental plans 
• Collect process, quality, and equipment data during experiments and production evaluations 
• Assist engineers in evaluating process changes, new materials, and equipment improvements 
• Troubleshoot process and equipment issues and communicate findings to engineering personnel 
• Support process transfer activities between manufacturing locations 
• Perform inspections, measurements, and data collection using standard metrology and test equipment 
• Maintain engineering equipment, fixtures, and trial areas in a safe and organized condition 
• Assist with installation, qualification, and validation of new equipment and tooling 
• Document trial results, observations, and process conditions accurately and completely 
• Work closely with operators, supervisors, engineers, and R&D personnel to support manufacturing and development objectives 
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and communicate ideas to engineering teams

What Success Looks Like

Within your first year, you will:

• Independently execute the majority of engineering trials with minimal supervision 
• Become a trusted resource for Process Engineers and manufacturing teams 
• Consistently generate accurate, reliable, and actionable experimental data 
• Anticipate engineering needs and proactively prepare equipment, materials, and resources for upcoming projects 
• Develop strong working relationships with operators, supervisors, and engineering personnel 
• Contribute to process improvements, process transfers, and troubleshooting efforts 
• Become proficient with key manufacturing equipment and engineering support activities

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 2+ years of experience in a manufacturing, laboratory, technical, maintenance, engineering technician, or related environment
• New AAS in Engineering or Science fields (or equivalent training and experience)
• Relevant certifications a strong plus, such as CAM, CAD, ISO, Lean, CMM, others

Skills & Other Requirements

• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills 
• Comfortable working with tools, equipment, fixtures, and manufacturing processes 
• Ability to follow procedures while adapting to changing priorities 
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail 
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision 
• Good verbal and written communication skills 
• Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office and data entry systems 
• Ability to accurately collect, record, and communicate experimental results 
• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills 
• Demonstrated initiative and willingness to learn new equipment and processes

Bonus Skills

• Experience with furnaces, thermal processing equipment, ovens, or programmable equipment 
• Experience with inspection and metrology equipment 
• Experience supporting process development, process engineering, or manufacturing engineering activities 
• Basic understanding of Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, or problem-solving methodologies

Bonus Qualifications

We appreciate candidates who demonstrate hands-on interests and a passion for building, repairing, fabricating, or improving things, including:

• Automotive projects 
• Woodworking 
• Fabrication and welding 
• Machining 
• Robotics 
• Electronics 
• 3D printing 
• Home improvement projects 
• Personal technical projects

Working Conditions

This is an in person position at our Newark, DE site.

Work schedule is 5 days, 40 hrs per week, first shift.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to occasionally lift, push, or pull up to 40 lbs. 
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during trial execution and equipment evaluations 
• Ability to bend, squat, kneel, and work around manufacturing equipment 
• Ability to safely operate within manufacturing environments while following all site safety requirements 

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to attend scheduled training, follow the site EHS procedures and Corporate EHS standards.  This includes the use of proper protective equipment (PPE) as required by the job responsibilities.

Managers will ensure that all safety and environmental procedures are followed consistently.  They will ensure that risk assessments are performed, proper training, work instructions, required PPE is available, and will monitor compliance.

Quality & 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:

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.

Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
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.