Laser Process Development Engineer/Scientist

Corning, Inc.; Hickory (NC); On-site; USD 103,000 - 141,000; Full time

Job summary

Corning, Inc. is seeking a Laser Process Development Engineer/Scientist to support early-stage development of advanced laser processes and optical solutions. The role involves hands-on experimentation, prototype development, optical design, automation, and data-driven optimization.

This position welcomes candidates with industry experience or Master’s/PhD research in laser processing, optics, photonics, or related fields, including hands-on lab work and process development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline required.
• 2+ years of experience in laser processing, optics, or photonics.
• Hands-on experimental work, troubleshooting, and data interpretation.
• Knowledge of laser theory and optical systems.
• Experience designing prototype equipment or lab systems.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and improve laser-based processes for global deployment.
• Build and evaluate lab-based prototype stations for new concepts.
• Apply laser theory and optical system knowledge to solve challenges.
• Develop optical systems, including free-space optics.
• Establish process windows through structured experimentation and analysis.
• Define task plans to meet project milestones and deliverables.
• Document guidelines and best practices for process development.
• Collaborate with AR&D and Research teams on cross-functional problems.
• Apply DOE, SPC, Six Sigma, or similar methods.
• Analyze experimental data and recommend actions.
• Troubleshoot prototype equipment and tooling.

Skills

Laser theory

Light-material interaction

Hands-on experiments

Data interpretation

Analytical thinking

Communication

Documentation

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Photonics/EE/Physics/ME/Materials Science

Master’s or PhD in a relevant field

Tools

SolidWorks

Creo

3D CAD tools

Job description

Corning, Inc. is seeking a Laser Process Development Engineer/Scientist to support early-stage development of advanced laser processes and optical solutions. The role involves hands-on experimentation, prototype development, optical design, automation, and data-driven optimization.

This position welcomes candidates with industry experience or Master’s/PhD research in laser processing, optics, photonics, or related fields, including hands-on lab work and process development.