Sr. Mechanical Design Engineer

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Date: Aug 14, 2026

Location: Hickory, NC, US, 28601

Company: Corning

Requisition Number: 77114

 

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

 

To support the design and development of robust mechanical systems and custom machines in a manufacturing environment for the manufacturing of fiber optic cable assemblies. This role will be part of the Optical Connectivity Solutions Division Engineering team and is responsible for leading mechanical design work from concept through completion, producing detailed manufacturing documentation, and supporting fabrication, assembly, testing, and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate brings strong technical depth in SolidWorks, practical engineering judgment, and the ability to collaborate effectively across global engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams.

Key Responsibilities

 

  • Design and develop mechanical systems and custom machines from concept through completion
  • Create detailed 3D models, assemblies, simulations, and design tables in SolidWorks
  • Produce accurate and complete 2D drawings with proper tolerances and manufacturing details
  • Develop and review assembly drawings, part drawings, and bills of materials
  • Apply sound engineering practices for manufacturability, assembly, reliability, and performance
  • Work closely with manufacturing, quality, and other engineering teams to support product development and machine builds
  • Assist with component selection, including mechanical hardware, motors, and sensors
  • Support prototype development, testing, troubleshooting, and design improvements
  • Contribute to quality-driven design practices and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Provide hands-on support for machine assembly, basic wiring, and system integration as needed

Required Education

 

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
  • Minimum 8 years of relevant mechanical engineering experience
  • Expert-level proficiency in SolidWorks, including 3D part modeling, assemblies, simulations, and design tables
  • Strong experience and proven proficiency in creating detailed 2D mechanical drawings
  • Solid understanding of assemblies, tolerances, and engineering documentation
  • Demonstrated ability to design machines from initial concept to completed system
  • Knowledge of fabrication processes for metal and plastic components
  • Experience with 3D printing and prototype development
  • Understanding of quality requirements and practical quality application in engineering design
  • Basic knowledge of controls, machine components, motor sizing, and sensors

 

Desired Experiences

 

  • Experience with automation equipment, custom machinery, or manufacturing systems
  • Hands-on experience supporting fabrication, assembly, and commissioning
  • Strong practical problem-solving skills and attention to detail

 

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.  

 


The range for this position is $95,997.00 - $131,996.00 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

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