Optical Manufacturing Engineer

Requisition Number: 71342

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’s businesses are ever evolving to best serve our customers, industries, and consumers. Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical communications, display, and automotive markets. We are changing the world with: 

• Trusted products that accelerate drug discovery, development, and delivery to save lives
• Damage-resistant cover glass to enhance the devices that keep us connected
• Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light
• Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences 
•  Auto glass and ceramics to drive cleaner, safer, and smarter transportation 

Scope of Position:
Seeking an Optical Finishing Process Engineer to develop and refine processes for final finishing of complex optical components (metals, plastics, crystals) used in aerospace and defense sensor systems. Focus on deterministic polishing tools, advanced metrology (interferometers, computer-generated holograms), and meeting strict figure, finish, and mid-spatial frequency specs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead process development for finishing and manufacturing advanced optics.
• Solve manufacturing challenges using engineering principles and data-driven methods.
• Drive process improvements, cost reduction initiatives, and capability enhancements.
• Develop solutions for optical generation and finishing, including polishing slurries and cloths.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and communicate effectively across all levels.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (or related field).
• 5+ years in optical component fabrication/testing.
• Expertise in conventional polishing (glass, IR, metals) and advanced metrology tools.
• Proficiency in process problem-solving (DOE, statistics).
• Strong communication and advanced math skills.

Desired Experience:

• 3+ years in deterministic, corrective polishing for aspheric/freeform optics.
• Knowledge of freeform optical surfaces and GD&T.
• Experience with CNC diamond turning, final optics handling, and cleaning.
• Familiarity with software (Zephyrcam, MATLAB, SolidWorks) and Six Sigma certification.

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.

The range for this position is $112,902.00 - $155,240.00 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.  

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.