Precision Machine Design Engineer

Corning Incorporated; Hickory (NC); On-site; USD 85,304 - 117,293; Full time

Job summary

Corning Incorporated seeks a Precision Machine Design Engineer to develop precision machine systems for prototype tools and manufacturing equipment. You will contribute to concept generation, detailed mechanical design, tolerance analysis, prototyping, and testing.

Key duties include translating requirements into machine concepts, applying kinematics, stiffness, thermal behavior, and vibration analyses using CAD tools (SolidWorks/Vault).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a mechanical discipline.
• 2+ years of engineering experience in machine design.
• Experience with precision components or automated equipment.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop precision machine systems, tooling, fixturing, and components.
• Translate product and process requirements into machine concepts and detailed designs.
• Apply tolerance analysis, stiffness, thermal behavior, and vibration to improve performance.
• Use CAD and analysis tools to create and refine designs.
• Collaborate with R&D and manufacturing on new product development.
• Support material selection and mechanical design decisions.
• Develop and test prototypes using internal lab resources.
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to install components.
• Assist with machine setup, debugging, qualification, and implementation.
• Support performance testing and data collection to verify specs.
• Participate in root-cause analysis of issues.
• Contribute to design specifications and engineering reports.

Skills

Mechanical design

Tolerance analysis

Motion systems

Measurement fundamentals

CAD software

SolidWorks/Vault

Cross-functional teamwork

Problem solving

Written and verbal communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Mechatronics degree

Electromechanical Engineering degree

Tools

SolidWorks

Vault

Engineering analysis tools

Job description

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.

Our Optical Communications segment has evolved from a manufacturer of optical fiber and cable to a comprehensive provider of optical solutions across the broader communications industry, covering carrier network and enterprise network product groups.

Scope of Position

The Precision Machine Design Engineer will contribute to the development of precision machine systems and components for applications ranging from prototype tools to plant‑floor manufacturing equipment. This role will support concept generation, detailed mechanical design, tolerance analysis, machine specification development, prototyping, testing, and implementation.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the design and development of precision machine systems, tooling, fixturing, and mechanical components for research, development, and manufacturing applications.
• Assist in translating product and process requirements into machine concepts, design requirements, and detailed mechanical designs.
• Apply engineering fundamentals in areas such as kinematics, stiffness, thermal behavior, vibration, and tolerance analysis to improve machine performance and robustness.
• Use CAD and engineering analysis tools to create, evaluate, and refine mechanical designs.
• Work with R&D and manufacturing teams to support new product and equipment development.
• Support material selection and mechanical design decisions based on application requirements and expected machine performance.
• Develop and test proof‑of‑concept prototypes using internal lab resources and equipment.
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal trades personnel to specify, procure, assemble, and install machine components and systems.
• Assist with machine setup, debugging, qualification, and implementation in manufacturing or laboratory environments.
• Support performance testing and data collection activities to evaluate machine behavior and verify design requirements.
• Participate in troubleshooting and root‑cause analysis of mechanical and system‑level issues.
• Contribute to documentation such as design specifications, drawings, test plans, and engineering reports.

Travel Requirements

• Estimated travel: 10%–25%, depending on project needs.
• Travel may be required for equipment installation, startup support, supplier visits, and interaction with internal customers.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Precision Engineering, Mechatronics, Electromechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• 2+ years of relevant engineering experience in machine design, equipment development, product development, or manufacturing engineering.
• 2+ years of experience working on mechanical systems, precision components, or automated equipment in an engineering or manufacturing environment.

Required Skills

• Basic to intermediate experience in mechanical design of equipment, fixtures, or machine systems.
• Understanding of engineering principles related to precision machinery, including tolerance analysis, machine stiffness, motion systems, and measurement fundamentals.
• Familiarity with specifying and selecting mechanical components such as linear guides, bearings, ball screws, motors, encoders, and structural elements.
• Ability to analyze technical requirements and support the development of practical mechanical design solutions.
• Experience using CAD software (SolidWorks/Vault) and engineering analysis tools to support design development.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and ability to work effectively in cross‑functional teams.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.

Desired Skills

• Exposure to precision measurement tools such as test indicators, interferometers, laser trackers, accelerometers, autocollimators, or precision levels.
• Familiarity with metrology concepts, data analysis, and engineering standards.
• Experience supporting prototype builds, lab testing, or machine debugging.
• Exposure to instrumentation, sensors, DAQ systems, or LabVIEW‑based measurement setups.
• Ability to work in a development environment with changing priorities and evolving technical requirements.

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.

The range for this position is $85,304.00 – $117,293.00 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.

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 a reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact [e-mail].