Laser Process Engineer / Scientist

Corning•Hickory, NC

8d•$102,650 - $141,145•Onsite

About The Position

Corning is seeking a Laser Process Engineer/Scientist to design, develop, and scale advanced laser-based processes — from early-stage experimentation through prototype deployment — in support of next-generation manufacturing and optical technologies. We welcome both experienced industry professionals and candidates whose graduate research included hands-on work in laser processing, optics, photonics, or related process development fields.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Photonics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline
2+ years of relevant experience in laser processing, optics, photonics, or process development; relevant Master's or PhD research experience may be considered toward this requirement
Working knowledge of laser theory, laser platforms, and light-material interaction
Understanding of optical theory and light propagation
Hands-on experience with experimental work, technical troubleshooting, and data interpretation
Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills

Nice To Haves

Master's degree or PhD in a relevant technical field
Experience designing and building prototype equipment, lab systems, or semi-automated stations
Proficiency with SolidWorks, Creo, or similar 3D CAD tools
Experience with DOE, SPC, Six Sigma, or other structured process analysis methods; proficiency with Minitab or JMP a plus
Experience translating laboratory or research work into scalable manufacturing processes; familiarity with fiber optic systems, controls, instrumentation, or basic programming a plus

Responsibilities

Design and develop laser-based processes and optical systems, including free-space optics using refractive and reflective components, for potential deployment across Corning facilities
Build and evaluate benchtop and semi-automated prototype stations to demonstrate and validate new process concepts
Establish process windows through structured experimentation, characterization, data analysis, and statistical methods; interpret results and recommend corrective actions and follow-up experiments
Troubleshoot prototype equipment, tooling, and process-related issues
Collaborate with cross-functional engineering and research teams to solve complex technical challenges
Document technical guidelines, best practices, and novel concepts for potential patent submissions
Design and develop tooling and fixtures supporting new product development from prototyping through scalable manufacturing