Sr. Optics Engineer
Apply now »Date: Oct 20, 2026
Location: Shanghai, SH, CN, 201807
Company: Corning
Requisition Number: 78541
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, automotive, and solar 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
Solar polysilicon, wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, enabling low-cost solar energy solutions
Role Purpose
We are looking for a skilled and innovative Optics Engineer to join our R&D organization. In this role, you will support the development of advanced optical component and module assembly solutions for next-generation connectivity applications, with a strong focus on micro-optics.
You will provide technical leadership in R&D activities related to optical assembly concepts, precision alignment, joining methods, and characterization of optical performance. Working closely with cross-functional engineering teams and the measurement/metrology group, you will help define, evaluate, and mature robust technical approaches that can be successfully implemented in high-volume manufacturing environments.
This position is well suited for an engineer with hands-on laboratory experience, strong knowledge of optical components and micro-optic integration, and a passion for solving complex technical challenges through experimentation, analysis, and innovation.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and support R&D activities related to the development of optical assembly concepts for micro-optic components and systems.
- Design, build, and refine experimental setups and engineering approaches for optical alignment, joining, and performance evaluation.
- Plan and execute experiments in collaboration with international project teams and technical stakeholders.
- Work closely with the measurement/metrology group to define characterization strategies, evaluate measurement data, and ensure the required technical insight for development activities.
- Develop and apply methods for precision alignment of optical elements and subassemblies at micro-scale tolerances.
- Support the selection and evaluation of materials, fixtures, joining methods, and assembly strategies for optical applications.
- Analyze technical data, identify root causes of performance variation, and resolve complex engineering challenges.
- Contribute to the advancement of optical technologies in line with technical roadmaps and business priorities.
- Document technical findings, provide clear recommendations, and share knowledge across the organization.
- Drive innovation through patent applications, technical publications, presentations, and knowledge sharing within the department.
- Support the transition of newly developed solutions from R&D into industrial implementation.
Experiences & Education
- Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Physics, Optics, Photonics, Opto-Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Hands-on laboratory experience working with optical components and advanced optical instrumentation.
- Practical experience with optical and micro-optical assemblies, including characterization and technical evaluation.
- Experience in designing and developing experimental setups, engineering fixtures, or technical workstations for optical applications.
- Good understanding of precision optical alignment, including micro-alignment methods.
- Experience analyzing technical data and applying statistical methods to support engineering decisions.
- Experience working in accordance with quality and metrology standards.
- Very good command of English and Polish.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with measurement system analysis (MSA).
- Practical knowledge of optical simulation tools such as Zemax or similar software.
- Experience with bonding of optical components.
- Programming skills in Python, C#, or similar languages.
- Experience with automation of laboratory, test, or characterization stations.
- Experience in industrial R&D projects or in transferring new technical solutions from development into manufacturing.
Skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a structured and data-driven approach.
- Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary and international teams.
- Strong hands-on engineering capability combined with attention to detail.
- Good communication skills and the ability to present technical topics clearly.
- Curiosity, initiative, and a strong drive for innovation and continuous improvement.
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.