Controls Maintenance Technician
Apply now »Date: Jul 1, 2026
Location: Hickory, NC, US, 28601
Company: Corning
Requisition Number: 75980
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
Corning is hiring a Controls & Manufacturing Technician to provide hands-on technical support across electrical, mechanical, and automation systems on our manufacturing floor. You'll be the go-to resource for diagnosing and resolving equipment issues, supporting controls projects, and driving reliability and process improvements that keep production running at its best. This is a strong role for a technically sharp, self-directed technician who thrives in a fast-paced plant environment and wants variety, ownership, and impact.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary point of contact for electrical and controls troubleshooting on production equipment — diagnosing and resolving issues using data-driven approaches
- Provide advanced support for plant control systems including Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and automation equipment
- Support and execute controls and electrical scope for improvement and capital projects; assist in transferring new technologies and processes into production
- Support preventive maintenance and reliability initiatives; analyze process data to identify trends and prevent recurring issues
- Create and update electrical schematics and documentation using AutoCAD Electrical; maintain accurate technical documentation for equipment and processes
- Train and support maintenance and operations teams in troubleshooting methods; collaborate with engineering and maintenance partners
Experiences/Education - Required
- Associate's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Technology — or equivalent manufacturing experience (at least 2 years experience in manufacturing environments with electrical and mechanical troubleshooting.)
- Knowledge of controls systems including PLCs (in particular Allen Bradley/Rockwell), HMIs, sensors, motors, and actuators
- Ability to read and interpret electrical and mechanical drawings
- Familiarity with National Electrical Code (NEC), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards, and Lock-Out Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures
- Knowledge of Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and Servo Drives
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Effective communication and teamwork skills
Work Schedule
- Rotating 12-hour shifts or standard weekday schedule based on business needs.
Experiences/Education - Desired
- Experience programming Allen Bradley ControlLogix PLCs and HMI/Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems
- Experience with AutoCAD Electrical and technical documentation creation
- Knowledge of motion control systems, and industrial networks
- Experience with OSI PI or other process data analysis tools
- Familiarity with legacy controls systems and plant networks
This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $59,731.00 - $82,131.00 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