Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Precision Measurements

Scope of Position

Broaden and extend Corning Inc.’s competency in the fields of precision mechanical and metrology system design and development for execution in a variety of applications from engineering prototypes to production systems. This role requires familiarity and skills in developing and implementing the following; unique opto-mechanical designs for products and processes, an understanding of micron and sub-micron metrology principles and methods, the ability to develop instrumentation specifications, error budgets, and quantify measurement uncertainty, the ability to use and understand (impact and limitations) state of the art computer modeling and analysis software packages for mechanical, optical, and multi-physics phenomenon and for data analysis and display, support projects from concept to manufacturing transfer at a manufacturing location, be proactive in the propagation of precision engineering principles and practices within Corning.

Senior Precision Engineers play a key role in solving complex engineering challenges, mentoring junior engineers, and ensuring the successful delivery of projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Interface with the Development, Engineering, and Manufacturing teams involved in the innovation and manufacture of new products and processes within Corning’s Advanced Optics’ precision optics, laser optics, and metrology instruments businesses.
• Lead engineering projects from concept through implementation, ensuring team deliverables are met on time and within budget. Work with other project team members on solving difficult mechanical and metrology engineering related problems, understanding project related issues, and general process engineering and process understanding.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians. Foster a collaborative environment that promotes knowledge sharing and professional development. Represent the engineering team in client meetings, presentations, and technical discussions.
• Manage risk assessments and quality assurance processes to ensure system reliability and compliance.
• Stay updated on cutting-edge technologies and industry trends related to precision engineering.  Drive research initiatives to improve system accuracy, performance, and efficiency. Develop intellectual property, patents, or novel methodologies as needed. Individual must investigate prior art and document any Intellectual Property developed as part of their project or development activities.
• Individual must document project results through internal and external reporting means (design reviews, peer reviews, customer presentations, manager review, technical reports, publications, etc.)
• Work as a team member/advisor during the development of new precision instruments, qualification benches, component design for different departments and work groups with Advanced Optics.
• Estimate time required to accomplish tasks and monitor performance against schedules.
• Individual must be capable of executing project assignments with minimal supervision.

Education/ Experience Requirements

• B.S. in Mechanical, Mechatronics, or Precision Engineering or related discipline plus 15 years of experience in optics, opto-mechanical design, metrology or related
• M.S. in Mechanical, Mechatronics, or Precision Engineering or related discipline plus 10 years of experience in optics, opto-mechanical design, metrology or related
• Ph.D. in Mechanical, Mechatronics, or Precision Engineering or related discipline plus 6 years of experience in optics, opto-mechanical design, metrology or related

Required Skills

• Technical expertise to in the areas of precision mechanical design, displacement measurement methods and uncertainty
• Tolerance for ambiguity and open-ended objectives – working in development environment with rapidly evolving requirements.
• Decision Making and Problem Solving – able to review data and facts and weigh options using a systematic approach to solve problems (decision making analysis tools, performance budgets, etc.)
• Communication – clearly present ideas and interpret complex information.
• Teamwork – work closely with other team members and departments; share credit.
• Flexibility – change ideas and focus based on new ideas.
• Commitment to Task – demonstrate dependability and sense of urgency about getting results.
• Planning/ Prioritizing/Goal Setting – manage multiple projects; establish plan and use goals to guide actions; schedule people and tasks to complete projects.

Desired Skills

• Knowledge of kinematic design principles, flexure design principles, and key precision design concepts (stiffness, stability, reliability)
• Fluent in finite element modeling techniques (mechanical, thermal, fluid, optical)
• Metrology principles related to high accuracy measurements for mechanical and optical systems including measurement uncertainty and error separation.
• Familiar with mechanical designs for vacuum, fluid and heat transfer, motion systems and motion controls
• Material selections and impacts/trade-offs for cost, manufacturability, and performance characteristics.