Email jobs to me

Manager, Automation Equipment Design

Apply now »

Date: Jun 17, 2025

Location: Hickory, NC, US, 28601

Company: Corning

Requisition Number: 69178

 

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.  

Corning Optical Communications is seeking a dynamic and experienced Mechanical Engineering Manager to lead the design, build, and commissioning of advanced process automation equipment for our global manufacturing network. You will head a talented team of Equipment Engineers delivering innovative solutions from prototype to production, all while ensuring technical excellence, safety, and seamless integration into high-performance manufacturing systems.

 

Key Responsibilities

 

  • Lead a multidisciplinary team of Mechanical Engineers in developing automation systems—early-stage concepts through industrial implementation.
  • Champion a culture of safety and model safe working behaviors in all interactions.
  • Drive automation strategies that promote lowest-cost manufacturing with maximum reliability.
  • Oversee robust design documentation processes and maintain high engineering standards.
  • Stay ahead of industry technology trends and promote their integration across equipment platforms.
  • Guide collaboration with R&D, division engineering, and manufacturing teams to pioneer new processes and product introductions.
  • Lead targeted skill development efforts and design review sessions to nurture engineering talent.
  • Manage cross-functional workstreams across mechanical, electrical, controls, and process domains.
  • Interface with external suppliers to define, procure, and integrate machinery and automation systems.
  • Author technical documentation, present project results to stakeholders, and support intellectual property development.
  • Resolve technical design and operational challenges that affect equipment safety, quality, cost, or delivery.

 

Travel Requirements:

 

Approximately 20%, some international

Hours of Work:

 

Normal business hours, 8–5

 

Required Qualifications

 

  • BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
  • 8+ years in engineering/manufacturing roles
  • 5+ years in equipment/process design.
  • Strong track record of leading complex engineering projects and technical teams.
  • Proficient in design tools, GD&T, FMEA, RCA, DOE, and technical documentation.
  • Excellent problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.

 

Preferred Qualifications

 

  • 5+ years of people management experience.
  • Expertise in SolidWorks.
  • Experience with contract automation firms and scaling equipment across global sites.

 

 

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.  

 

The range for this position is $148,334.00 - $203,959.00 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

Apply now »