Principal Software Engineer Jobs in California

PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work with internal customers to define the automated process and system specifications.
• Understand and document customers’ requirements and reach agreements with customers.
• Work with hardware engineering colleagues to design/select suitable key parts as part of system conception design.
• Create software architecture as part of system conception design.
• Assess software-related risks with necessary mitigations.
• Develop software and coding based on software architecture.
• Test new developed modules if feasible.
• Simulate environment to verify key algorithms.
• Finish the whole software coding within the pre-defined schedule.
• Set up PC and install necessary software and hardware drivers.
• Make each control module functional individually.
• Debug software to make each functional unit work properly.
• Integrate system to make the whole auto sequence as defined.
• Work with hardware engineering colleagues to continuously trial run the system and improve and verify the system reliability.
• Install the system on the production floor and work with the customer to qualify the system.
• Support the production and trouble-shooting system issues if needed.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• 15+ yrs. of software engineering experience in automated process and test systems development is must.
• Skilled in the use of software development language such as C#, C, C++.
• Knowledge of optical communication technology is preferred.

SKILLS & OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Expert in the design and developing software for automated assembly and test systems for optical data communication related product manufacturing, such as transceivers, OCS, and CPO.
• Proficient in motion control and machine vision technology applications.
• Familiar with deep learning technology application is a plus.
• Ability to develop regular automation projects independently.
• Ability to work closely with colleagues from various fields.
• Excels in a high teamwork spirit across teams, departments, and sites.
• Able to support a flexible work schedule due to the needs of collaboration with multiple facility’s customers and colleagues.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• 8-hour shift: 8 AM to 5 PM. May need to work on some irregular hours, such as earnings and weekends, for urgent production support.
• Must be able to function in a fast-paced environment, carrying out multiple projects at a time.
• Candidate may need to occasionally travel overseas to customer site for system transfer or support.

Physical Requirements

• Able to work in a clean room environment when needed.

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 talentacquisition@coherent.com.

ABOUT US

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.

JOB INFO

Job Identification: 2012915

Posting Date: 06/19/2026, 07:05 PM

Degree Level: Bachelor's Degree

Job Schedule: Full time

Locations: 5100 Patrick Henry Drive, Santa Clara, CA, 95054, US (On-site)

Pay Scale: $114,375 - $195,875 per year

LinkedIn: #LI-JF1