Discussion

Coherent's culture is shifting hard, thinking about jumping ship

0x22d3…b86a

·21d ago·2 comments

I’ve been at Coherent for a few years, and I’m just feeling completely drained by the current atmosphere. Ever since the integration, the place has felt like a revolving door. These recent 20 layoffs in California are just the latest reminder that we’re all just line items on a spreadsheet now. The technical culture that used to be the backbone of this place is getting replaced by constant performance metrics and middle management playing 'efficiency' games. It’s impossible to get any real engineering work done when you’re constantly looking over your shoulder wondering if your team is next on the chopping block. Is anyone else seeing their long-term projects get gutted? I’m seriously considering looking for an exit before the next round of 'strategic adjustments' happens. Is the grass actually greener at the other photonics players, or is the whole industry this miserable right now?

Join the discussion — anonymously

Sign in to comment, reply, and vote. Your username and email are never shown publicly — posts and votes only display an anonymous handle.

Comments (2)

0x2e8f…59bc

·21d ago

It’s honestly sad to see how much things have changed. I remember when the focus was entirely on R&D and pushing boundaries, but now it feels like every conversation is centered around quarterly targets rather than the actual tech. Management seems more interested in reorganizing the org chart than supporting the people who actually build the products. If you’ve got the chance to leave for a place that still values engineering craft, don’t hesitate. This shift towards a metrics-first culture rarely ends well for the long-term health of the team.

0x317a…a7a2

·21d ago

I’ve been watching from the outside, and the vibe has definitely soured. When companies start treating talent like disposable assets, it’s a massive red flag. The California layoffs are just a symptom of a larger disconnect between the C-suite and the people in the labs. You’re not crazy for feeling burnt out; it’s a natural reaction to being squeezed for efficiency at the expense of your sanity. If the environment isn't fostering innovation anymore, you’re just wasting your career potential by sticking around.