Sr. Lean Engineer
Apply now »Date: Mar 26, 2026
Location: Newton, NC, US, 28658
Company: Corning
Requisition Number: 74121
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
In this meaningful role, you will have the opportunity to apply Lean and Industrial Engineering concepts to improve product and information flow, reduce inventory, meet customer delivery, increase capacity, reduce complexity, and reduce costs.
Implement Lean fundamental concepts such as Workplace Organization/5S, Kaizen, value stream mapping, standard work and continuous flow.
Lead and/or participate in project teams to apply tools to yield process and flow improvements with the purpose of reducing cost, growing capacity, or reducing complexity.
Effectively work with and deliver results across the campus and with a variety of processes.
Key Responsibilities
• Maintains knowledge of and expertise in the latest developments in the areas of Lean/ Industrial Engineering; defines its applicability to Corning; develops and applies the systems and technologies through successful projects
• Develops and executes project plans; determines requirements, deliverables, resources, timing/milestones, and risks
• Develops alternative solutions to problems and prepares economic comparisons; recommends to management plans of action after considering intangibles and economic factors; and proposes plans, coordinates and controls the implementation of major projects
• Identifies areas of potential manufacturing related productivity improvement; generates ideas for, formulates, and recommends systems, programs and projects
• Develop & implement sustainable 5S, Visual Control, Single Minute Exchange of Die (SMED), & other Lean programs
• Communicates ideas and project status clearly and professionally through graphic and written media, and oral presentations. Provides necessary documentation of activities, results, and assignments
• Facilitate the planning & implementation of workplace flow/layout, as well as equipment installations, modifications, and moves according to Lean concepts
• Serves as a technical coach for peers/customers as required
Experiences/Education - Required
• BS in Industrial or other Engineering/Technical field of study
• 5+ years of related experience
• Mastery and application of: Lean Manufacturing and Theory of Constraints concepts and principles, cycle time reduction, Kaizen events, manufacturing/business processes, Value Stream Mapping, line balance/staffing, work cell design
• Effective, high quality oral and written communication skills. Able to sell your ideas/concepts to Senior Management
• Conviction and passion for the discipline
• Self-motivated, independent, flexible, quick learner
• Knowledge of manufacturing methods, systems, and production processes
• Working knowledge of computers including MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project)
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal) with ability to present ideas, opinions, and data to gain understanding, consensus, and support
HOURS OF WORK:
Monday - Friday 40-50 hours/week. Occasional off hours required
TRAVEL: 5%
This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $102,848.00 - $141,416.00 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