Manufacturing Talent Program Leader
Apply now »Date: Sep 4, 2025
Location: Concord, NC, US, 28026
Company: Corning
Requisition Number: 70712
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.
Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber and cable, hardware and equipment to being a comprehensive provider of industry-leading optical solutions across the broader communications industry.This segment is classified into two main product groupings – carrier network and enterprise network. The carrier network product group consists primarily of products and solutions for optical-based communications infrastructure for services such as video, data and voice communications. The enterprise network product group consists primarily of optical-based communication networks sold to businesses, governments and individuals for their own use.
Role Purpose
Lead the implementation and sustainability of two programs Triple crown (P&M attract, train & retain) and Ignite (Empowering High-Performance Technicians). This includes the responsibility for leading key initiatives to hire exceptional talent, provide path for effective training and development, develop and clarify technical leadership progression, understand and implement morale retention strategies and sustain the activities. This role requires coordination with multiple internal functions (HR, WFD, Operations and Engineering) and external vendors such as community colleges, schools and career fairs.
Key Responsibilities
Drive the plant to be the lowest cost manufacturing locations for Color SMF
Support daily manufacturing in a high paced 24x7 facility
Attract, develop, and retain technical talent
Manage department projects to support plant objectives
Champion process control and change management efforts
Manage project budgets and forecasts
Protect Corning’s Intellectual Property (IP)
Be an advocate to pull in new technologies
Leadership and People Responsibilities:
Model Corning values and code of conduct
Act with integrity and authenticity. Champion change and flexibility
Promote understanding through active listening
Ensure the selection and integration of talent
Construct compelling development plans and execute them
Develop peer relationships and collaboration
Business Responsibilities:
Deal effectively with ambiguity
Understand key financial measures of manufacturing success
Understand business goals and translate them into technical and program objectives
Functional/Technical Responsibilities:
Develop technical training strategy and deliver on plan
Use problem-solving methodologies such as DMAIC, six-sigma, and KT
Facilitate effective brainstorming
Champion technology deployment and transfer
Manage multiple perspectives and priorities
Experiences/Education - Required
Four-year degree w/Bachelor of Science in Engineering or equivalent preferred
5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment
Required Skills
Experience in project management
Proven ability to effectively lead and motivate teams
Strong and collaborative people skills
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Self-motivated and proactive mindset
Capable of functioning well in a matrixed environment
Capacity to listen effectively, make informed decisions, and act with minimal supervision
Handle confidential information and able to use sound judgment.
Establish, grow, and maintain positive working relationships with both internal and external customers
Experiences/Education - Desired
3+ years Operations leadership experience
Experience in collaborating, interfacing and communicating upwards
Strong organizational influencing skills
Process/equipment understanding
Understanding of Concord payroll and progression
Previous shift leadership experience
Eager to take on additional responsibilities
PEx Green belt trained or certified
This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $97,542.00 - $134,121.00 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. The benefits available for this position are dependent on hours worked and may include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) plan, pension plan, life insurance coverage, disability benefits, and PTO.
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, and career from day one
- As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, we provide a 100% company-paid pension benefit that grows throughout your career. We also offer a 401(k) savings plan with company matching contributions.
- Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, and disease management programs.
- 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.
- 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 peer-to-peer recognition program to celebrate success by recognizing colleagues who demonstrate above-and-beyond behaviors.
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.
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. To request an accommodation, please contact us at accommodations@corning.com.
Nearest Major Market: Charlotte
Nearest Secondary Market: Concord