Role Purpose
Corning's Optical Fiber and Cable division is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced automation systems for fiber manufacturing and cable processing equipment. This role sits at the intersection of mechanical engineering and manufacturing innovation—driving solutions that directly impact production performance, quality, and throughput across Corning's fiber and cable operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and execute automation and process equipment projects—including capacity installations, equipment debug, and manufacturing start‑up—delivering systems that are safe, reliable, cost-effective, and performance-validated.
- Define machine design specifications and error budgets; develop mechanical design concepts; oversee prototype and production equipment builds; conduct proof‑of‑concept testing and translate findings into engineering recommendations.
- Partner with external machine builders, system integrators, and suppliers to specify, manage, and deliver fully integrated process machine systems on time, on budget, and to performance targets.
- Prepare and direct the generation of construction and installation drawings; ensure final drawing packages reflect as‑built conditions and meet engineering standards.
- Actively participate in system integration, debug, installation, production start‑up, and plant personnel training; report on project activities and track expenditures against allocated budgets.
Work Schedule and Travel Requirements
- Normal Business Hours (8–5, M–F), with additional hours as required to achieve project objectives.
- Estimate travel at 30%, depending upon specific project assignment. Travel may be required during installation, debug, and start‑up as well as for routine interaction with customers and suppliers.
- International travel possible based on project assignment.
- Locations: Concord, NC; Wilmington, NC; Hickory, NC; Charlotte (Midland), NC.
Required Experience and Education
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
- 8+ years of experience in the design and development of production process machinery, dynamic mechanisms, and/or automated systems in a manufacturing environment.
- Demonstrated experience delivering fully integrated machine and automation systems, including integration of commercial technologies into robust manufacturing solutions.
- Strong working knowledge of electro‑mechanical drive systems, robotics, material handling, fluid power, pneumatics, and safety standards.
- Proficiency in SolidWorks, Inventor, and/or AutoCAD.
- Demonstrated ability to manage external machine builders and system integrators through design, build, and system integration.
- Strong project management skills with experience leading medium‑to‑large‑scale, equipment‑focused projects.
Desired Experience and Education
- Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
- Experience with new equipment installation and manufacturing start‑up.
- Familiarity with computer modeling and analysis software for mechanical system design.
- Knowledge of precision engineering principles.
- Background transitioning new products or manufacturing processes from development into full‑scale production.
Immigration Sponsorship
This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
Compensation
The range for this position is $95,227.00 - $130,938.00 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.
Benefits
- Company‑wide bonuses and long‑term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well.
- 100% company‑paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career; matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, with total contributions to your retirement accounts reaching between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service.
- Health and well‑being benefits including medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company‑paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.
- Recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions.
EEO Statement
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 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 accommodations@corning.com.