R&D Mechanical Prototyping Lab Lead

Corning, Inc.; Keller (TX); On-site; USD 125,000 - 172,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus program

401(k) matching

Pension plan

Health benefits

Recognition program

Job summary

Corning, Inc. is seeking a hands-on Supervisor for the R&D Mechanical Prototype Lab to lead a team of technicians developing fiber optic enclosures and related hardware.

You will oversee lab operations, drive performance, and ensure timely delivery of high-quality prototypes for product development and customer samples. The role sits in the Optical Communications segment and collaborates with engineering, product management, and commercial teams.

Qualifications

• 1+ years of supervisory or team leadership experience.
• Hands-on mechanical aptitude with fabrication, mechanical assembly, and troubleshooting.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, BOMs, and technical documentation.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering; Mechanical Engineering degree preferred.
• Willingness to travel up to 10%, domestic and international.
• Experience with fiber optic enclosures or related hardware products.
• Familiarity with 5S, visual management, or standard work in a lab/manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD).

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of lab technicians, set expectations, manage workload, and coach for growth.
• Manage the prototype request log to balance product development and commercial priorities.
• Provide hands-on support for fabrication, assembly, troubleshooting, rework, and prototype modifications.
• Maintain a safe, organized lab using 5S, visual management, and standard work; oversee maintenance and calibration of equipment.
• Partner with cross-functional teams; report KPIs for prototype turnaround, build quality, and lab efficiency.

Skills

Supervisory experience

Fabrication

Mechanical assembly

Troubleshooting

Engineering drawings

BOM reading

CAD software

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Mechanical Engineering degree preferred

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Job description

Corning, Inc. is seeking a hands-on Supervisor for the R&D Mechanical Prototype Lab to lead a team of technicians developing fiber optic enclosures and related hardware.

You will oversee lab operations, drive performance, and ensure timely delivery of high-quality prototypes for product development and customer samples. The role sits in the Optical Communications segment and collaborates with engineering, product management, and commercial teams.