Controls Engineering Technician
Apply now »Date: Apr 30, 2026
Location: Hickory, NC, US, 28601
Company: Corning
Requisition Number: 74698
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
Performs a variety of technical duties and activities including experimental procedures, collection of data from manufacturing process, data analysis and graphical analysis. May be involved with measurement labs and/or customer data to help engineers resolve customer complaints or improve manufacturing yields. May lead and direct P&M trades and/or contract trades personnel in equipment installation, repairs or upgrades
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborate with controls engineers to implement control logic, fail-safe systems, and equipment recovery sequences
- Install and configure field devices aligned with process requirements and site standards
- Estimate project timelines accurately and deliver tasks within agreed schedules
- Support automation projects to deliver reliable, cost-effective manufacturing systems
- Troubleshoot complex automation issues and contribute to system optimization
- Assist in system integration, testing, installation, startup, and training of plant personnel
Experiences/Education
- Two-year technical degree preferable, with focus of EE, CS, Mechatronics, or similar areas.
- 4+ years equipment/controls experience
- Strong experience integrating field devices (flow, motion, temperature, safety systems) into full control systems
- Proficient in PLC programming (ladder logic) and PID loop tuning
- Solid background in electrical, mechanical, and automation systems (including robotics and motion control)
- Hands-on troubleshooting, system integration, and control panel verification experience
- Effective problem-solver with strong teamwork, communication, and project execution skills
- Experience with PLCs and automation systems (Allen-Bradley, Beckhoff, Safety PLCs, iFIX SCADA); ability to program, debug, and modify PLC code (ladder logic, structured text, function block)
- Strong manufacturing background with hands-on experience in production environments
- Familiarity with computer vision systems and robot programming
- Ability to collaborate with machine builders and system integrators for equipment build and implementation
Travel Requirements
- Less than 2%,
Work Hours and Experience
- Nominal working hours are M – F, 8 AM – 5 PM
- Support off shift as needed
This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $70,834.00 - $97,397.00 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: Hickory