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Team Leader

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Date: Nov 14, 2025

Location: Hickory, NC, US, 28601

Company: Corning

Requisition Number: 71783

 

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.

HCP Team Leader

Location: Hickory, NC
Shift: 12-hour day or night shifts (24/7 operation)
Travel Requirements: Less than 5% (primarily to a nearby plant)

Role Purpose:


We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Team Leader to oversee cable operations and manage 30-40 hourly associates and 2-3 operations coordinators. This role will be responsible for ensuring operational excellence across Ribboning, IPOT, Buffering, Jacketing, Final QC processes, and warehouse activities. The HCP Team Leader will also play a key role in fostering a culture of safety, compliance, and continuous improvement.

 

Key Responsibilities

 

1. Safety Leadership

 

Promote a culture of safety by ensuring compliance with procedures and PPE requirements.

Identify and address unsafe conditions while encouraging proactive reporting and safe work practices.

Maintain a safe work environment for all employees and visitors.

 

2. Production Oversight and Operational Excellence

 

Lead production activities to meet or exceed quality, cost, and delivery goals.

Optimize staffing and machine assignments to enhance efficiency and capacity.

Maintain world-class housekeeping standards and implement ISO-compliant procedures.

Drive departmental objectives, including quality improvements, cost reductions, and on-time shipments.

 

3. Team Development

 

Collaborate with trainers to ensure employee performance and development.

Build an engaging work environment by recognizing and rewarding high performance.

Develop training plans for operators and support staff to ensure continuous growth.

 

4. Cost Management

 

Monitor cost drivers and make data-driven decisions to achieve optimal output at the lowest cost.

 

5. Continuous Improvement

 

Lead and support Lean and Continuous Improvement projects to reduce inefficiencies and improve production yield.

Identify and implement corrective actions to resolve process issues.

 

Qualifications

 

Required:

 

  • Bachelor’s Degree (Engineering preferred) or equivalent manufacturing leadership experience.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and strong computer skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, time-sensitive environment.

 

Desired:

 

  • Degree in Engineering, Technology, Business, or Physical Sciences.
  • 1-3 years of experience in a manufacturing environment
  • 2-3 years of supervisory experience in manufacturing.
  • Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to engage at all organizational levels.
  • Proven problem-solving and root cause analysis expertise.

 

Key Competencies

 

  • Leadership and team management.
  • Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
  • Continuous improvement mindset with knowledge of Lean principles.
  • Ability to prioritize and manage competing demands.
  • Results-driven with a proactive problem-solving approach.

 

Work Environment

 

  • This position is part of a 24-hour, 7-day operation. Flexibility is required to meet production needs.
  • Shift assignment will be on a 12-hour day or night rotation.

 

Join Us:
If you are passionate about leading teams, optimizing operations, and fostering a culture of safety and excellence, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity!

 

 

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.  

 

The range for this position is $79,166.00 - $108,854.00 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.

 

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

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