Job Description

Requisition Number: 76909

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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.

Optical Assembly Development Engineer

Role Purpose

We are looking for a skilled and innovative Optical Assembly Development Engineer to join our R&D organization. In this role, you will support the development of advanced optical component and module assembly solutions for next-generation connectivity applications, with a strong focus on micro-optics.

You will provide technical leadership in R&D activities related to optical assembly concepts, precision alignment, joining methods, and characterization of optical performance. Working closely with cross-functional engineering teams and the measurement/metrology group, you will help define, evaluate, and mature robust technical approaches that can be successfully implemented in high-volume manufacturing environments.

This position is well suited for an engineer with hands-on laboratory experience, strong knowledge of optical components and micro-optic integration, and a passion for solving complex technical challenges through experimentation, analysis, and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support R&D activities related to the development of optical assembly concepts for micro-optic components and systems.
• Design, build, and refine experimental setups and engineering approaches for optical alignment, joining, and performance evaluation.
• Plan and execute experiments in collaboration with international project teams and technical stakeholders.
• Work closely with the measurement/metrology group to define characterization strategies, evaluate measurement data, and ensure the required technical insight for development activities.
• Develop and apply methods for precision alignment of optical elements and subassemblies at micro-scale tolerances.
• Support the selection and evaluation of materials, fixtures, joining methods, and assembly strategies for optical applications.
• Analyze technical data, identify root causes of performance variation, and resolve complex engineering challenges.
• Contribute to the advancement of optical technologies in line with technical roadmaps and business priorities.
• Document technical findings, provide clear recommendations, and share knowledge across the organization.
• Drive innovation through patent applications, technical publications, presentations, and knowledge sharing within the department.
• Support the transition of newly developed solutions from R&D into industrial implementation.

Qualifications

Education

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Physics, Optics, Photonics, Opto-Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.

Experience

• Hands-on laboratory experience working with optical components and advanced optical instrumentation.
• Practical experience with optical and micro-optical assemblies, including characterization and technical evaluation.
• Experience in designing and developing experimental setups, engineering fixtures, or technical workstations for optical applications.
• Good understanding of precision optical alignment, including micro-alignment methods.
• Experience analyzing technical data and applying statistical methods to support engineering decisions.
• Experience working in accordance with quality and metrology standards.
• Very good command of English and Polish.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with measurement system analysis (MSA).
• Practical knowledge of optical simulation tools such as Zemax or similar software.
• Experience with bonding of optical components.
• Programming skills in Python, C#, or similar languages.
• Experience with automation of laboratory, test, or characterization stations.
• Experience in industrial R&D projects or in transferring new technical solutions from development into manufacturing.

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a structured and data-driven approach.
• Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary and international teams.
• Strong hands-on engineering capability combined with attention to detail.
• Good communication skills and the ability to present technical topics clearly.
• Curiosity, initiative, and a strong drive for innovation and continuous improvement.