Staff Scientist - Optics

Role Purpose

The candidate will design, model, assemble, analyze, and test optical and photonic components and systems. The candidate will conduct research and development into phases of physical optics, geometric optics, optical materials, optical metrology, laser damage testing, and laser material processing.

• Adhere to laboratory safety protocols
• Identify sources for and procure components including sensors, lasers, fiber‑optics, opto‑mechanics, and electronics
• Assemble or supervise and manage the assembly of prototypes
• Use design‑to‑cost models, Six Sigma methodology, and other methods to ensure optical design requirements are met
• Build subject‑matter expertise in optics, materials, and laser processes
• Consult or collaborate with other subject‑matter experts across various business units, from research to manufacturing
• Document system designs and results; generate reports and file invention disclosures
• Make technical internal and external presentations to team members, customers, and at conferences
• Organize the lab and order components or equipment

• Ph.D. preferred in physics, optical engineering, electrical engineering, or related discipline AND 2 years of relevant industrial experience OR Master’s degree and 5 years of relevant industrial experience
• Strong working knowledge of optics and optical properties of materials
• Ability to perform modeling of optical systems using Zemax, CodeV, FRED, or comparable systems
• Strong problem‑solving skills
• Effective communicator, oral and written, across a variety of presentation settings
• Strong hands‑on experimental skills in building free‑space optical and photonic systems
• Measurement of optical and photonic components and systems
• Ability to perform complex data analysis
• Comfortable with traveling up to 25% domestic or international

• Working knowledge of optical metrology systems such as laser confocal microscopes and optical interferometers
• Working knowledge of light‑matter interactions
• General understanding of radiometry and photometry
• Automation of measurement systems (using LabVIEW, C#, MATLAB, Python, etc.)
• Mechanical design and assembly of prototypes
• Experience in numerical analysis techniques including beam propagation methods and multi‑physics modeling

Salary range: $ – $ (full time). Compensation is based on location, market demands, experience, training, and education.

• Company‑wide bonuses and long‑term incentives aligned with business results
• Full‑pay pension with fixed contributions and matching 401(k) contributions
• Health and well‑being benefits: medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family‑building support, fitness, life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Recognition program to celebrate successes and reward exceptional contributions

This position supports immigration sponsorship.

We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status. Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at