Assistant Director of Operations (Aviation)
Apply now »Date: Apr 16, 2026
Location: Big Flats, NY, US, 14814
Company: Corning
Requisition Number: 74578
The company built on breakthroughs.
Join us.
Corning is one of the world’s leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what’s possible.
How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations – not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company, and the world, forward.
At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more.
Come break through with us.
Corning’s businesses are ever-evolving to best serve our customers, industries, and consumers. Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical communications, display, automotive, and solar markets. We are changing the world with:
- Trusted products that accelerate drug discovery, development, and delivery to save lives
- Damage-resistant cover glass to enhance the devices that keep us connected
- Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light
- Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences
- Auto glass and ceramics to drive cleaner, safer, and smarter transportation
- Solar polysilicon, wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, enabling low-cost solar energy solutions
Position Summary
The Assistant Director of Aircraft Operations (ADAO) is a senior aviation leader and subject matter expert supporting the Director of Aircraft Operations (DAO) in the safe, compliant, and efficient operation of Corning Aircraft Operations (CAO). Operating under consultative direction, the ADAO exercises broad autonomy within assigned areas and provides expert leadership in flight operations, safety management, regulatory compliance, and operational control. The role is designed as a key successor pipeline to the DAO.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide senior leadership and oversight of assigned flight operations and operational control functions, exercising independent judgment in complex or time‑critical situations.
- Lead assigned elements of the Safety Management System (SMS), including safety analysis, risk mitigation, corrective actions, and promotion of a strong safety culture.
- Serve as a delegated liaison with regulatory authorities and external agencies; support audits, inspections, and sustained compliance.
- Monitor aeronautical, regulatory, and operational information and recommend actions to protect flight safety and operational readiness.
- Support emergency response planning and execution.
- Maintain and enhance Aviation Operations Manuals and ensure a current operations library.
- Support the DAO in operational planning, staffing strategy, budgeting, and cost management.
- Act on behalf of the DAO as delegated and serve as acting DAO when designated.
- Mentor operational personnel and reinforce professionalism, accountability, and Corning’s Values.
Requirements
- Advanced expertise in aircraft operations, operational control, and aviation safety management.
- Highest level pilot and/or maintenance technician certification applicable to the operation.
- Bachelor's degree preferred. (Associates degree plus additional experience may be accepted in lieu of Bachelor's degree).
- Strong regulatory knowledge and experience supporting FAA or international authority interactions.
- Proven ability to solve complex, non‑routine operational problems.
- Strong communication, judgment, and leadership skills.
- Valid passport and appropriate work authorization; current medical certification where required.
Desired
- Senior level experience in aviation operations leadership roles.
Measures of Success
- Effective identification and mitigation of operational and safety risks
- Sustained regulatory compliance in assigned areas
- Timely resolution of complex operational issues
- Strong partnership with the DAO and operational stakeholders
This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $184,238.00 - $253,327.00 assuming full time status. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education.
A job that shapes a life.
Corning offers you the total package.
Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.
- Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
- As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, we provide a 100% company-paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career. Combined with matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, Corning’s total contributions to your retirement accounts can reach between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service.
- Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.
- Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That’s why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions.
We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.
Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at accommodations@corning.com.
Nearest Major Market: Elmira