Intern - Software Application Development

Job Summary

We are seeking a motivated Software Engineering Intern to join the Software Application Development team for Summer 2026. In this role, you will help extend our internal R&D and test automation platform (Windows, C#, .NET Framework) by adding support for optical switch testing under SONiC OS. You will gain hands-on experience with network switch fundamentals, Linux-based switch operating systems, SSH-based automation, and building production-quality features used by engineers in the lab.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Design and implement optical switch testing support within our existing R&D and test platform (C#, .NET Framework, Windows).
• Develop an SSH-based integration layer to communicate with SONiC devices (command execution, session management, authentication handling, timeouts, and error recovery).
• Optimize and harden the existing SSH interface used in our platform for reliability, performance, and maintainability (connection reuse, retries/backoff, logging, structured command results).
• Add monitoring capabilities via SSH to collect switch/system telemetry (examples: interface state, link status, transceiver/port data exposed by SONiC/CLI, health signals, relevant logs).
• Improve and extend our IronPython-based test scripting to support SSH-driven workflows (new scripting APIs, examples, and backward-compatible enhancements where possible).
• Create validation coverage: unit/integration tests where feasible, plus practical lab verification steps and repeatable test procedures.
• Deliver internship capstone artifacts:
• a short design/architecture write-up
• working prototype integrated into the platform
• documentation (usage guide + example scripts)
• final demo/presentation to the engineering team

Education & Experience

• Education Level Required: Bachelor’s (or Master’s preferred, but not required)
• • If Bachelor's is ok: Please indicate preferred year:
• • Rising Junior (completed 2 years by start)
• • Rising Senior (completed 3 years by start)
• Majors: Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering (or related)
• Relevant coursework or project experience in one or more of the following is a plus:
• Networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, routing/switching concepts, Ethernet)
• Linux fundamentals and shell/CLI usage
• Software development in C# and/or Python
• Systems automation, test automation, or tools development
• Open to currently enrolled students or those who have graduated within one year of the internship start date.

Skills & Other Requirements

• Excellent written and verbal communication; able to document work and present results.
• Team-oriented but able to work independently when needed.
• Adaptable and eager to learn in a fast-paced environment.
• Attention to detail and time management.
• Working knowledge of C# and object-oriented design; familiarity with .NET Framework is a plus.
• Basic understanding of network switching concepts (ports, VLANs, link status, interfaces).
• Basic Linux experience (CLI navigation, file/log inspection, process concepts).
• Experience using SSH for remote command execution and troubleshooting.
• Experience with Python ; exposure to IronPython is a plus.
• Comfort with debugging, logs, and iterative problem-solving in a lab environment.
• Familiarity with Git/source control and basic software engineering workflows.

Working Conditions

• This role will be based on-site in Fremont.
• Regular use of a computer and other office equipment is necessary.
• May include time in an R&D lab environment to connect to and validate against optical switch hardware and network equipment, following all site safety procedures.

Physical Requirements

• Sitting for extended periods while working on a computer or in 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.

Safety Requirements

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

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 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.