Development Intern - Optical Communications - Summer 2026

Apply now »

Date: Jan 14, 2026

Location: Corning, NY, US, 14831

Company: Corning

Requisition Number: 72727

 

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, and automotive 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 

Role Purpose

The intern will support the development of new and exciting optical fiber connectivity design, fabrication and measurement technologies. The intern will analyze the optical physics underlying experiments by working with technicians and other scientists to understand data outputs.  The intern will also recommend modifications to experiments, measurements and test plans as needed to more fully determine how to optimize device and system performance.  The intern will be encouraged to innovate and explore new ways to achieve desired physical and optical attributes. In addition to experimentation and data analysis, the intern will be responsible for comparing results with published literature to complete the basis for writing and presenting a final report. 

Key Responsibilities

The intern will perform literature searches and then set up and execute a development plan

  • Learn new techniques and methods as needed to support the project objectives 
  • Assist in the design of experiments, communicate observations, perform measurements, collect, and summarize data 
  • Work with scientists to plan and carry out required experiments to advance progress against project objectives 
  • Prepare test specimens, operation of test equipment, assist with non-standard experimentation, methods development, troubleshoot and maintain equipment 
  • Document all aspects of the work and use documentation for the end of the summer presentation
 
 

Program Perks:

  • Competitive salaries
  • Assistance with housing and travel
  • Meaningful project and final project presentation

Intern Activities:

  • Social and networking opportunities
  • Weekly tech talks
  • Community involvement

Experiences/Education - Required

  • Pursuing MS or PhD in Optics, Optical Physics, Physics, Optical Engineering, or similar discipline with data analysis skills. 
  • Relevant job experience a plus.
  • Ability to develop hypothesis and experimental plan
  • Gather and analyze results to determine validity
  • Organize and report findings
  • Thorough understanding of optical characteristics of fiber optic systems
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to effectively present information 
  • Experience working in a research lab, building relationships and interacting effectively with team 
  • Availability for 10 weeks during Summer 2026 (May-August) with a graduation date of December 2026 or later 
  • Interest in working for Corning, Inc after graduation, if presented with a full-time job opportunity.
  • Willingness to work at the posted job location: Corning, NY.   

Experiences/Education - Desired

Knowledge/experience in:  

  • Precision opto-mechanical design tolerancing and analysis
  • Lab experience in fiber optic processes like splicing
  • Application of machine learning and artificial intelligence to analysis of large data sets and images

 

 

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.

 


​The range for this position is $1,635.00 - $3,185.00 biweekly.  Starting pay for the successful applicant is prescribed based on geographic location, nature of position, and year in school.

 

A job that shapes a life.  

Corning offers you the total package.  

 

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: Corning

Apply now »