Staff Engineer, Plasma Equipment

Corning • Corning, NY

81d • $92,003 - $126,505

About The Position

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. 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. We are seeking a Senior Plasma Equipment Scientist/Engineer to lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced plasma equipment for surface treatment, film deposition, and microfabrication. This role combines plasma physics and engineering to deliver innovative systems from corporate R&D and into manufacturing.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or M.S. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline, with a focus on plasma science or engineering.
• 8+ years of experience in plasma equipment design, development, and deployment, preferably in an industrial or advanced R&D setting.
• Demonstrated expertise in plasma physics, surface science, and microfabrication technologies.
• Proven track record of leading complex engineering projects and delivering innovative equipment solutions.
• Proficiency in CAD and simulation tools for equipment design and plasma modeling.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Experience integrating equipment with facility infrastructure (power, gases, cooling, exhaust).
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary, fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of custom plasma-generating equipment for surface modification, material deposition, etching, and microfabrication, with a focus on scalability, reliability, and process integration.
• Apply advanced plasma physics principles to engineer solutions for complex surface treatment challenges, including but not limited to semiconductor, glass, polymers, and advanced material applications.
• Design and prototype new plasma sources (RF, microwave, DC, pulsed, etc.), reactors, and associated subsystems, ensuring robust performance and safety.
• Influence technology strategy and represent the company externally with customers, partners, and at industry events.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (R&D, facilities, safety, business/manufacturing) to translate scientific requirements into engineered systems and to integrate equipment into existing infrastructure.
• Drive technology roadmaps for plasma-based processes and equipment, identifying opportunities for disruptive innovation and strategic differentiation.
• Troubleshoot, optimize, and upgrade plasma equipment, leveraging diagnostics, modeling, and experimental validation.
• Document designs, test results, and best practices to ensure knowledge transfer, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement.
• Mentor junior engineers and scientists, providing technical leadership and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
• Stay abreast of emerging trends in plasma science, microfabrication, and equipment engineering, representing the company in technical forums and collaborations.
• Ensure all equipment and processes comply with relevant safety and regulatory standards.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision insurance
• 401(k) plan with company matching contributions
• Pension plan
• Life insurance coverage
• Disability benefits
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Paid parental leave
• Family building support
• Fitness programs
• Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives
• Peer-to-peer recognition program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Nonmetallic Mineral Product Manufacturing
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree