Controls Engineer
Apply now »Date: Jun 11, 2025
Location: Hickory, NC, US, 28601
Company: Corning
Requisition Number: 69083
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.
Are you a problem-solver with a passion for automation and control systems? Corning is looking for a Controls Engineer to join our team, tackling complex technical challenges in manufacturing and process automation. If you're eager to work with cutting-edge technology and contribute to groundbreaking innovations, we want to hear from you!
Role Purpose
As a Controls Engineer, you'll collaborate with a skilled team to solve technical challenges and drive improvements in our fiber optic cable production process. You will support or lead initiatives in continuous improvement, new product introductions, and cost reduction projects. Your role will focus on developing superior technology solutions to enhance quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
Key Responsibilities
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Develop and modify Beckhoff, Allen Bradley, and G&L PLC programs for fiber optic cable production.
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Design and implement new control system projects.
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Manage controls engineering scopes for process improvements, capital expansion, and obsolescence mitigation projects.
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Implement robust, cost-effective automation and machine control systems.
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Collaborate with external system integrators to successfully deliver integrated process equipment to Corning’s facility.
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Engage in all project phases, including design, fabrication, installation, startup, and technology transfer.
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Ensure compliance with industry standards and safety procedures, such as NEC, NFPA, and Lock-Out Tag-Out.
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Work closely with technicians and plant personnel to troubleshoot and resolve equipment issues.
Qualifications & Experience – Required
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Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Manufacturing Engineering Technology.
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0-5 years of manufacturing experience.
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0-2+ years of hands-on PLCs, HMIs, and VFDs for process automation.
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Experience with AutoCAD Electrical 2021 for system design, panel layouts, and schematics.
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Strong understanding of machine/motion control systems, electro-mechanical systems, VFD and Servo programming, and communication protocols.
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Ability to work independently and proactively troubleshoot fundamental process issues.
Qualifications & Experience – Preferred
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Internship or progressive experience in engineering.
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Hands-on programming with Allen Bradley ControlLogix v20+ PLCs.
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Experience with HMI / SCADA system programming and higher-level communication protocols.
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Familiarity with OSI PI (historian) interface and legacy controls equipment.
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Beckhoff PLC experience is a plus.
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Strong communication, project leadership, and problem-solving skills.
This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $70,447.00 - $96,865.00 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: Hickory