Precision Machine Design Engineer

Precision Machine Design Engineer

** Date:
** Jul 21, 2026

*
* Location:

** Hickory, NC, US, 28601

** Company:
** Corning

Requisition Number: 76604

** 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.

** Scope of Position*
* The Precision Machine Design Engineer will contribute to the development of precision machine systems and components for applications ranging from prototype tools to plant-floor manufacturing equipment. This role will support concept generation, detailed mechanical design, tolerance analysis, machine specification development, prototyping, testing, and implementation.

The successful candidate will work closely with experienced engineers, researchers, manufacturing teams, and external suppliers to develop practical and robust machine solutions for challenging technical applications. This position offers the opportunity to grow technical depth in precision engineering principles, machine design, metrology, and system integration.

** Key Responsibilities*
* + Support the design and development of precision machine systems, tooling, fixturing, and mechanical components for research, development, and manufacturing applications.

+ Assist in translating product and process requirements into machine concepts, design requirements, and detailed mechanical designs.

+ Apply engineering fundamentals in areas such as kinematics, stiffness, thermal behavior, vibration, and tolerance analysis to improve machine performance and robustness.

+ Use CAD and engineering analysis tools to create, evaluate, and refine mechanical designs.

+ Work with Research, Development, and Manufacturing teams across Corning divisions to support new product and equipment development efforts.

+ Support material selection and mechanical design decisions based on application requirements and expected machine performance.

+ Develop and test proof-of-concept prototypes using internal lab resources and equipment.

+ Work with suppliers and internal trades personnel to specify, procure, assemble, and install machine components and systems.

+ Assist with machine setup, debugging, qualification, and implementation in manufacturing or laboratory environments.

+ Support performance testing and data collection activities to evaluate machine behavior and verify design requirements.

+ Participate in troubleshooting and root cause analysis of mechanical and system-level issues.

+ Contribute to documentation such as design specifications, drawings, test plans, and engineering reports.

** Travel Requirements*
* + Estimated travel: 10%-25%, depending on project needs.

+ Travel may be required for equipment installation, startup support, supplier visits, and interaction with internal customers.

** Required

Education and Experience *
* + Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Precision Engineering,…