Corning Incorporated

Precision Optics Development Engineer

Corning Incorporated$119K — $164K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in optics, physics, or a related STEM field
  • 5+ years of experience in high-precision asphere fabrication for visible or DUV optical systems
  • Proficiency with CNC platforms such as grinders, polishers, and MRF
  • Hands-on experience reducing or smoothing mid-spatial frequency errors
  • Knowledgeable about optical metrology methods
  • Record of accomplishment implementing new processes on schedule and within budget
  • U.S. citizen or U.S. person required

Responsibilities

  • Develop and optimize advanced polishing processes for various optical substrates
  • Design and execute experiments to develop new capabilities
  • Analyze experimental results to make actionable process improvements
  • Manufacture prototype optics for semiconductor equipment customers
  • Identify and manage technical risks across development programs
  • Communicate results clearly to peers and partners
  • Stay updated on emerging technologies in precision optics
  • Collaborate across teams for process readiness
  • Mentor junior engineers and technicians

Benefits

  • Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives
  • 100% company-paid pension benefit with contributions
  • Comprehensive health and wellness benefits including medical and paid parental leave
  • Recognition programs for exceptional contributions
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for staff and family support
Full Job Description
Requisition Number: 74712

Role Purpose

Corning Incorporated is hiring a Precision Optics Development Engineer at our technology site in Rochester, NY. This role typically works 40+ hours per week with flex as needed. U.S. citizenship or U.S. person status is required for this position.

Shape the future of advanced manufacturing in Corning's Advanced Optics group. In this role, you will lead hands-on innovation in high-precision optical fabrication, developing and optimizing advanced processes for mirrors, lenses, aspheres, and freeform optics used in next-generation semiconductor inspection systems. You will work across Corning's optics development environment to solve complex technical challenges and expand manufacturing capabilities for increasingly advanced optical systems. You will use scientific and engineering methods to develop new process capabilities, analyze results, and support prototype manufacturing for cutting-edge customer applications. Join a passionate, collaborative team where your technical expertise will drive real-world impact and push the boundaries of what's possible in optics.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and optimize advanced polishing processes for glass, crystals, and other optical substrates across flats, spheres, aspheres, and freeform surfaces
  • Design and execute experiments using scientific and engineering principles to develop new capabilities
  • Analyze experimental results and translate findings into actionable process improvements
  • Manufacture prototype optics for advanced optical systems used by semiconductor equipment customers
  • Identify, assess, and manage technical risks across development programs
  • Communicate results clearly to peers, leaders, and technology partners
  • Stay current on emerging technologies and process innovations in precision optics manufacturing
  • Support expansion of manufacturing capabilities for more complex and higher-performing optical systems
  • Collaborate across R&D, development, and manufacturing teams to advance process readiness
  • Mentor junior engineers and technicians


Minimum Qualifications & Skills

  • Bachelor's degree in optics, physics, or a related STEM field
  • 5+ years of experience in high-precision asphere fabrication for visible or DUV optical systems
  • Proficiency with CNC platforms such as grinders, polishers, MRF, IBF, or sub-aperture polishers on glasses and crystals
  • Hands-on experience reducing or smoothing mid-spatial frequency errors
  • Knowledgeable about optical metrology methods
  • Record of accomplishment implementing new processes on schedule and within budget
  • U.S. citizen or U.S. person required


Preferred Qualifications & Skills

  • MS or PhD in optics, physics, or a related STEM field
  • Experience with EUV or X-ray optics, diamond turning, or metal and alloy substrates
  • Understanding of cleanroom environments protocols and optical surface cleaning processes
  • Experience with Design of Experiments (DOE) and statistical analysis tools
  • Proven ability to manage priorities across competing demands


This position does not support immigration sponsorship.

The range for this position is $119,542.00 - $164,370.00 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.


About Corning Incorporated

Corning Life Sciences provide high quality, innovative products for life science applications enabling people around the world to make and deliver life changing discoveries.

Corning Incorporated Careers

Join the visionary team at Corning Incorporated, a leader in materials science that has continually transformed industries and everyday life around the globe. At Corning, you will find a company committed to enhancing growth, innovation, and leadership within its workforce. This is an unparalleled opportunity to become part of a professional network that is dedicated to pioneering advancements in technology and science. Work You’ll Do At Corning Incorporated, your work will directly contribute to the company’s mission of delivering high-tech solutions in industries such as telecommunications, life sciences, and automotive. You will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry, utilizing your skills to foster innovation and drive significant impacts on a global scale. Join our diverse team and embrace the challenge of developing unique solutions that make a difference in people’s lives every day. Corning’s inclusive culture and commitment to diversity training ensure that every team member’s voice is heard and valued, enhancing our collaborative environment. Career Growth and Opportunities Corning is dedicated to the professional growth of its employees, offering a wide range of job opportunities and career paths in various fields. Whether you are seeking a position in engineering, research, manufacturing, or business management, Corning provides the resources and support to thrive in your career. Internship programs at Corning are crafted to provide students and recent graduates with hands-on experience, valuable networking opportunities, and a chance to make substantive contributions to ongoing projects. These internships often lead to full-time employment, thanks to the skills, experiences, and relationships developed during this critical period. Benefits and Culture Choosing a career at Corning Incorporated means opting for a life of innovation and continuous learning. The company offers competitive benefits designed to support the health, well-being, and financial security of its employees and their families. From comprehensive health care options and retirement plans to employee discounts and wellness programs, Corning is committed to enriching the lives of its team members. Our culture thrives on creativity, integrity, and dedication. We believe in the power of collaboration and are committed to maintaining a supportive environment where you can grow your career and feel an integral part of our success. Join Our Team Explore the numerous job opportunities at Corning Incorporated and find the position that aligns with your career ambitions and expertise. We are continuously hiring new talent and look forward to reviewing your resume and preparing you for an interview where you can showcase your unique qualifications. Stay Connected Keep up to date with the latest developments and career tips from Corning Incorporated by subscribing to our careers blog. Gain insider perspectives that can help you navigate your professional journey effectively. Apply Today Are you ready to advance your career at a company that is at the forefront of technological innovation? Search Corning jobs now and join a team that is reshaping industries and improving lives through material science. SEARCH CORNING JOBS At Corning Incorporated, we’re more than just a company – we’re a community. Harness the power of our collective knowledge and skills to propel your career forward. Discover the impact you can make on the world with Corning.
Learn more about Corning Incorporated
Size
61,200 employees
Market Cap
$26.8 billion
Industry
Net Income
$512 million
Founded
1851
5 Year Trend
+8.4%
Revenue
$11.3 billion
NASDAQ

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