Laser Process Engineer​/Scientist

Laser Process Engineer / Scientist

** Date:
** Jul 15, 2026

*
* Location:

** Hickory, NC, US, 28601

** Company:
** Corning

Requisition Number: 76144

** 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. 

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber and cable, hardware and equipment to being a comprehensive provider of industry-leading optical solutions across the broader communications industry.

This segment is classified into two main product groupings - carrier network and enterprise network. The carrier network product group consists primarily of products and solutions for optical-based communications infrastructure for services such as video, data and voice communications. The enterprise network product group consists primarily of optical-based communication networks sold to businesses, governments and individuals for their own use.

** Role Purpose*
* 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.

** Key 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

** Experiences/Education - Required*
* + 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

** Experiences/Education - Desired*
* + Master's degree or PhD in a relevant technical field

+ Experience designing and building prototype equipment, lab systems, or semi-automated stations

+ Proficiency with Solid Works, 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…