Laser Process Development Engineer ​/ Scientist

Laser Process Development Engineer / Scientist

Corning is seeking a Laser Process Development Engineer/Scientist to support the early-stage development of advanced laser processes and optical solutions. This role is responsible for developing and improving new and existing laser-based processes through hands-on experimentation, prototype development, optical system design, automation, and data-driven process optimization. This position is ideal for candidates who enjoy combining strong technical fundamentals with practical experimental execution to create scalable process innovations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and improve laser-based processes for potential deployment across Corning facilities worldwide
• Build, refine, and evaluate lab-based benchtop and semi-automated prototype stations to demonstrate new process concepts
• Apply knowledge of laser theory, laser platforms, optical systems, and light-material interaction to solve complex technical challenges
• Design and develop optical systems, including free-space optics using refractive and reflective components
• Establish process windows and operating ranges through structured experimentation, characterization, and analysis
• Develop and execute task plans to meet project objectives, milestones, and deliverables
• Define and document technical guidelines and best practices for process development activities
• Collaborate with AR&D and Research teams to solve challenging cross-functional technical problems
• Apply structured problem-solving methods, including MEE and other engineering analysis techniques
• Analyze experimental data using statistical and process-analysis tools
• Interpret results and recommend immediate actions, longer-term corrective actions, and follow-up experiments
• Troubleshoot prototype equipment, tooling, and process-related issues
• Document inventions, novel concepts, and technical innovations for potential patent submissions
• Design, develop, and test tooling and fixtures to support new product development from prototyping through high-volume manufacturing

Required Qualifications:

• 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 related process development
• Understanding of laser theory, laser platforms, and light-material interaction
• Understanding of optical theory and light propagation
• Experience with hands-on experimental work, technical troubleshooting, and data interpretation
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Project
• Demonstrated ability and willingness to learn and apply new technologies

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree or PhD in a relevant technical field
• Experience in automation process development
• Experience designing and building prototype equipment, lab systems, or semi-automated stations
• Experience with Solid Works, Creo, or similar 3D CAD tools
• Familiarity with controls, instrumentation, and basic programming
• Proficiency with Minitab, JMP, or advanced Excel-based data analysis
• Familiarity with fiber optic theory, optical systems, or photonics applications
• Experience translating laboratory, prototype, or research work into scalable manufacturing processes

What Will Make You Successful in This Role:

• You enjoy hands-on technical work and developing new process capability from the ground up
• You are comfortable working in an experimental environment where learning comes through testing, iteration, and analysis
• You can connect theory to application and use engineering fundamentals to solve real process challenges
• You communicate clearly and work effectively across development, engineering, and research teams
• You are motivated by innovation and excited to contribute to next-generation manufacturing and optical technologies

Candidate Backgrounds We Encourage:

• Engineers or scientists with industry experience in laser processing, optics, photonics, automation, or advanced manufacturing
• Master's or PhD candidates whose graduate research involved relevant hands-on laboratory, equipment, or process development work
• Candidates with experience in process development, optical system design, laser-material interaction, prototyping, or manufacturing technology development

Why Join Corning:

This is an opportunity to work on advanced process technologies with the potential for global manufacturing impact. You'll contribute to the development of innovative laser-enabled solutions, collaborate with highly technical teams, and help bridge early-stage concepts into scalable process capability.

The range for this position is $85,304.00 - $ 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.

Corning offers you the…