Early-Stage Process Development Engineer

Scope of Position

Corning is seeking a Development Engineer to support early-stage development of innovative, automated manufacturing processes using new and emerging technologies. This role focuses on the technical development of new processes and products, applying scientific methods and data-driven approaches to improve manufacturing performance. Projects may support any Corning division or research and development organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead technical development of new processes and products with a strong focus on automation.
• Learn and apply new technologies, materials, and formulations to termination and fabrication processes.
• Improve processes and resolve technical challenges using fundamental engineering principles, the scientific method, and Designed Experiments (DOE).
• Reduce defects by identifying and eliminating root causes.
• Apply DMAIC methodology and advanced statistical analysis tools.
• Improve manufacturing cost, quality, uptime, yield, cycle time, and safety.
• Evaluate new raw materials, define process parameters, and develop or specify new processing equipment.
• Document experimental plans, results, and process changes.
• Support cross-divisional and R&D projects across Corning.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Design and develop new processes or improve existing ones with an emphasis on scalable automation for global deployment.
• Establish operational windows and control ranges based on experimental data.
• Assist in project planning and execute task plans to meet deliverables.
• Develop and maintain process development technical guidelines.
• Collaborate with local plant experts and global subject matter experts (SMEs).
• Ensure manufacturing requirements are clearly defined and documented in collaboration with manufacturing, production, and engineering teams.
• Provide technical support and guidance to manufacturing and production personnel.
• Develop and implement project documentation with plant personnel.
• Apply structured problem-solving methodologies such as Kepner-Tregoe (KT), DOE, and Six Sigma.
• Implement process control and process discipline systems.
• Analyze process data using statistical tools (Pareto charts, regression, time series, ANOVA, Gage R&R, etc.).
• Interpret data and recommend immediate actions, long-term corrective actions, and follow-up experiments.
• Troubleshoot equipment and process issues.
• Document new ideas and innovations for potential patent submissions.
• Design and test tooling and fixtures from prototyping through high-volume production.

Soft Skills & Competencies

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• High level of personal initiative and commitment.
• Excellent organization, planning, and time management skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams.
• Positive attitude, flexibility, and strong work ethic.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• 2+ years of experience in a similar engineering role (preferred).
• Proficiency with MS Office tools (Excel, Word, Project, PowerPoint).
• Strong analytical and communication skills.
• Demonstrated desire to learn and apply new technologies.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Engineering or related field.
• Knowledge or experience in engineering materials selection and development.
• Experience with 3D modeling tools such as SolidWorks or Creo.
• Working knowledge of DOE, SPC, Six Sigma, and other process control or analysis techniques.
• Ability to perform complex data analysis using MS Excel (SPC) and/or Minitab.
• Basic understanding of laser theory, laser platforms, and laser operation.
• Familiarity with fiber optic theory.
• Familiarity with optics and light propagation.

Join Corning and help shape the future of advanced manufacturing through innovation, automation, and engineering excellence.