Email jobs to me

Sr. Laser Process Development Engineer

Apply now »

Date: Feb 23, 2026

Location: Hickory, NC, US, 28601

Company: Corning

Requisition Number: 73504

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.

Scope of Position

Corning is seeking a highly motivated Sr. Laser Process Development Engineer to support early-stage development of innovative laser-based manufacturing processes. In this role, you will lead technology development for new and existing processes and products, from concept through prototyping and manufacturing deployment. You will collaborate closely with plant process experts, global subject matter experts, and cross-functional teams to develop robust, scalable laser processes that can be implemented across Corning facilities worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

Design and develop new manufacturing processes or improve existing ones with a strong focus on laser processing and automation.
Build and operate benchtop and semi-automated prototype systems to demonstrate and mature new laser processes.
Apply a strong understanding of laser theory, laser platforms, and laser–material interactions to solve complex process challenges.
Plan and execute experiments to define operational windows and process parameter ranges.
Assist in the development of project plans, manage task execution, and deliver results on schedule.
Establish and document process development guidelines and best practices.
Collaborate with local manufacturing teams and global SMEs to drive process innovation and technology transfer.
Troubleshoot equipment and processes using a fundamental, physics-based approach.
Ensure manufacturing requirements are clearly defined, documented, and communicated.
Provide technical support and guidance to manufacturing, engineering, and production teams.
Implement process control systems and process discipline in manufacturing environments.
Analyze process data using statistical and analytical tools to drive decisions.
Interpret experimental and production data to recommend immediate actions, long-term corrective actions, and follow-up experiments.
Design, test, and refine tooling and fixtures from prototyping through high-volume production.
Document innovative concepts and technical developments for potential patent submissions.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor of Science in Photonics Engineering, Physics, or a related Engineering discipline
5+ years of experience in a R&D role preferably working with optics, laser setups and processing
Strong understanding of laser theory, laser platforms, and light–material interactions
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Project, PowerPoint)
Strong communication, problem-solving, and analytical skills
Demonstrated curiosity and willingness to learn and apply new technologies

Desired Skills and Experience

Master’s degree or higher in a relevant technical field
Experience with automation design, including both process and station-level automation
Proficiency in 3D CAD modeling (SolidWorks, Creo)
High-level understanding of controls systems, including components and programming
Experience applying DOE, SPC, Six Sigma, and other process analysis/control methodologies
Advanced data analysis skills using Excel (SPC), Minitab, or JMP
Familiarity with fiber optic theory (plus)
Strong background in optics and light propagation (plus)

Why Corning

At Corning, you’ll work at the forefront of materials science and advanced manufacturing, helping to develop technologies that shape industries and improve lives. We offer a collaborative environment, access to world-class facilities, and opportunities to make a global impact..

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.

The range for this position is $101,784.00 - $139,953.00 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.

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, Corning provides company matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan of up to 4% of pay when you contribute at least 6% of pay.
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.

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

Apply now »