Senior Process Development Technician
Apply now »Date: Feb 11, 2026
Location: Hickory, NC, US, 28601
Company: Corning
Requisition Number: 73197
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.
Position Description:
The successful candidate will be responsible for developing, documenting, and implementing new processes, products, and equipment—especially those related to optical cable and manufacturing automation. This role combines hands-on process and product development with expertise in mechanical design and CAD/documentation. The technician will collaborate closely with engineers and project teams to advance innovative solutions, execute experiments, and deliver production-ready results that create customer value.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities:
- Participate in project teams to develop new products, processes, and equipment, supporting project deliverables and timelines.
- Collaborate with engineers to design, detail, and document mechanical parts/assemblies using Autodesk Inventor (3D CAD).
- Generate and manage equipment drawings/models and ensure compliance with documentation standards.
- Specify, procure, and coordinate mechanical equipment and components with internal and external suppliers.
- Interact with machine shops to manage quotations, procurement, and build of components.
- Set up, test, and debug electromechanical systems, including optimization and troubleshooting.
- Develop and execute experimental plans, set up equipment, perform tests, and organize data; provide clear test reports and documentation.
- Support problem-solving using structured techniques (MEE, KT, Designed Experimentation, Six Sigma).
- Develop draft procedures and documentation for processes and equipment.
- Participate in the training of personnel and associates on newly deployed equipment and processes.
- Capture new ideas for potential patent submission.
- Maintain and improve a safe work environment at all times.
Education & Experience: Required
- Associate’s degree in a technical discipline with 5+ years of manufacturing or equipment development experience; OR 7+ years of relevant manufacturing experience.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on experience with process and manufacturing equipment.
- Experience using 3D CAD for mechanical part/assembly detailing and documentation.
- Familiarity with mechanical equipment design, procurement, installation, and debugging.
- Experience with equipment installation, setup, and process optimization.
Education & Experience: Desired
- Proficiency in the use of Autodesk Inventor including VAULT is a strong plus.
- Experience testing and troubleshooting fiber optic cables or similar products.
- Experience designing/developing new equipment and processes for manufacturing.
- Familiarity with pneumatic components/controls and PLC programming.
- Experience in project planning, scheduling, and resource management.
- Experience with equipment/process documentation standards.
- Experience with data analysis (Excel, SPC, or statistical software such as JMP/Minitab).
- Experience in manufacturing or field installation environments.
- Fluency in foreign languages (Spanish, German, Polish) a plus.
This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $72,744.00 - $100,023.00 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