Lean Manufacturing Engineer

Overview

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. Our Optical Communications segment has evolved to provide industry-leading optical solutions across the broader communications industry. This segment includes carrier network and enterprise network product groupings for optical-based communications infrastructure and networks for businesses, governments, and individuals.

Corning is seeking a Lean Manufacturing Engineer to lead and drive continuous improvement initiatives. You will implement and sustain Lean Manufacturing practices to enhance performance in quality, cost, delivery, morale, and safety. Key focus areas include Value Stream Mapping, Visual Performance Metrics, Workplace Organization (WPO), Kaizen, Work Standardization, and Gemba Engagement. The role also encompasses transformational competencies, including workplace design, inventory controls, capacity flexibility, flow smoothing, value-add analysis, and changeover optimization.

This position requires close collaboration with other Corning locations to ensure alignment with corporate initiatives, share best practices, and maintain consistency across systems and processes. The ideal candidate will develop and implement systems, procedures, and projects that align with plant, divisional, and corporate goals.

• Lean Program Development
  Develop and implement a strategy for a self-sustaining Lean program.
• Track and analyze Lean metrics to measure the effectiveness of improvements.
• Update standards to ensure sustainability and align with divisional and corporate initiatives.

• Training and Coaching
  Educate and coach plant employees on Lean principles, vision, concepts, and expectations.
• Establish and maintain a process for Lean training and development, focusing on empowering teams to solve problems independently.
• Mentor and provide leadership to site Lean resources, fostering a Lean culture and addressing barriers to success.

• Lean Implementation
  Lead the deployment of Lean manufacturing methodologies and tools.
• Supervise and guide teams, including engineers, technicians, and hourly employees.
• Conduct value stream mapping exercises to identify, document, and execute opportunities for improvement in cycle time, capacity, and cost.
• Oversee continuous improvement activities, utilizing Kaizen principles and facilitating leadership engagement in the Gemba to identify and implement solutions.

• Sustainable Programs
  Develop and implement sustainable Lean programs, including 5S, Visual Control, and Single Minute Exchange of Die (SMED).
• Plan and execute workplace flow/layout improvements and equipment installations, modifications, and relocations in line with Lean principles.

• Benchmarking and Collaboration
  Identify and implement benchmarking opportunities across Corning locations to promote best practices and process standardization.

• Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Industrial Engineering preferred) or equivalent experience.
• A minimum of 2 years of experience in manufacturing and/or engineering.
• Proven leadership experience in functional or project-based roles.
• Demonstrated knowledge and application of Six Sigma/DMAIC tools.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing methods, systems, and production processes.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project) and ERP systems.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to present ideas, data, and insights effectively to achieve consensus and support.

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.

The range for this position is $86,197.00 - $ 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.

• Compan…