Controls Engineer (m/f)

Corning Inc.; Town of Poland (NY); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Corning Inc. is seeking an R&D‑focused engineer to take concepts from idea to prototype, expanding capabilities in motion and vision systems, PC applications, and microcontroller integration.

The role involves programming and commissioning control systems, building and testing prototypes, and collaborating with process engineers to plan experiments. Strong problem‑solving and English skills are essential in this on‑site position.

Qualifications

• Experience in development work, laboratory environments, or prototype building.
• Hands‑on PLC programming experience, preferably Structured Text (IEC 61131‑3).
• Knowledge of Beckhoff, Siemens, or Omron systems.
• Ability to read electrical schematics.
• Experience selecting automation and electronic components.
• Analytical approach and ability to solve problems independently.
• Good command of English.

Responsibilities

• Participate in the development of new devices and processes — from concept to fully functional prototype.
• Program and commission control systems, including PLCs, motion systems, vision systems, and HMI/PC‑based solutions.
• Build, test, and further develop prototypes of devices and automation systems.
• Cooperate with process engineers and metrology specialists in planning and executing experiments.
• Select automation and electronic components for newly developed solutions.
• Prepare technical documentation, work instructions, and test reports.
• Analyse technical issues and implement design changes and improvements.
• Participate in safety analyses and compliance assessments.

Skills

Prototype development

PLC programming

English proficiency

Analytical problem solving

Electrical schematics reading

Automation components selection

Vision systems experience

PC applications development (Python/C#

Tools

Beckhoff

Siemens

Omron

Job description

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.

We are looking for a person who enjoys creating new solutions from concept to prototype — from idea generation, through design and programming, to testing and commissioning. This is an R&D‑focused role, where we develop devices and processes that have not previously existed within the company.

The scope of work is broad and goes beyond PLC programming. It includes motion systems, vision systems, PC applications and, as an additional advantage, microcontrollers. We are looking for someone who feels comfortable in a development environment, enjoys experimenting, testing, and finding the best technical solutions.

Key responsibilities

• Participate in the development of new devices and processes — from concept to fully functional prototype
• Program and commission control systems, including PLCs, motion systems, vision systems, and HMI/PC‑based solutions
• Build, test, and further develop prototypes of devices and automation systems
• Cooperate with process engineers and metrology specialists in planning and executing experiments
• Select automation and electronic components for newly developed solutions
• Prepare technical documentation, work instructions, and test reports
• Analyse technical issues and implement design changes and improvements
• Participate in safety analyses and compliance assessments

Required qualifications

• Experience in development work, laboratory environments, or prototype building
• Hands‑on experience in PLC programming, preferably in Structured Text (IEC 61131‑3)
• Knowledge of Beckhoff, Siemens, or Omron systems
• Ability to read electrical schematics
• Experience in selecting automation and electronic components
• Analytical approach and ability to solve problems independently
• Good command of English

Nice to have

• Experience with vision systems and drives
• Experience in developing PC applications, e.g. in Python or C#
• Knowledge of CODESYS, C/C++, SCADA/MES
• Experience in machine safety analysis

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.

Company‑wide bonuses and long‑term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.

As part of our commitment to your financial well‑being, we provide a pension benefit that grows throughout your career.

Our health and well‑being benefits include medical, multi‑sport card, company‑paid life insurance, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program to support you and your family.

Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That’s why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions.

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 participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at [e-mail].