Scientist - Precision Mechanical - Optomechanical Systems

Corning is hiring a Staff Scientist or Senior Staff Scientist – Precision Mechanical / Optomechanical Systems to join its Science & Technology organization at Sullivan Park in Corning, New York. As Corning’s flagship R&D campus, Sullivan Park is where scientists and engineers turn breakthrough ideas into the advanced materials, optical technologies, and hardware innovations that shape the future. This role is open at multiple levels, with level and compensation determined based on the selected candidate’s education, experience, technical depth, and demonstrated leadership.In this role, you will help develop optical connectivity solutions for AI and high-performance computing, designing the precision components and assemblies that enable advanced optical hardware to be aligned, integrated, and manufactured reliably. This is a highly visible opportunity for a technical leader with deep expertise in precision mechanical systems, ideally with experience in optomechanics or similarly demanding hardware environments, who can apply strong engineering judgment to solve difficult technical challenges and help move next-generation technologies from concept to reality.ResponsibilitiesLead the design and development of precision optomechanical components and assemblies for advanced optical connectivity applicationsTranslate complex technical needs into practical design, development, and execution decisionsDrive solutions for alignment, tolerance, precision fabrication, assembly, and integration challengesPartner across multidisciplinary teams in research, development, engineering, and manufacturingUse design analysis, modeling, experimentation, prototyping, and technical judgment to de-risk programs and improve performanceHelp move technologies from concept through prototype, validation, and scalable implementationProvide technical leadership, communicate clearly across teams, and help build long-term capability in the organizationMinimum QualificationsPh.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Optomechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field with 2+ years of relevant industry experience; or M.S. in a related field with 5+ years of relevant industry experience; or B.S. in a related field with 7+ years of relevant industry experienceIndustry experience in precision mechanical systems, optomechanics, or similarly demanding hardware environmentsExperience designing and developing precision components and high-precision assembliesStrong background in tolerance analysis, alignment-sensitive systems, and precision fabrication/assemblyExperience using CAD, modeling, and engineering analysis tools to design and evaluate precision components and assembliesExperience with optical modeling and simulation tools such as Zemax, Code V, LightTools, or similar platforms.Ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary technical teamsStrong communication and technical problem-solving skillsPreferred QualificationsPh.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Optomechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field with 3+ years of relevant industry experience; or M.S. in a related field with 8+ years of relevant industry experience; or B.S. in a related field with 12+ years of relevant industry experienceExperience with optomechanical systems for AI/HPC or other advanced optical hardware applicationsExpertise in precision mechanics for optical or micro-optical systemsExperience with optical connectivity hardware, fibers, connectors, or related interfacesExperience with prototyping, lab testing, and development through scalable implementationDemonstrated technical leadership through project leadership, functional leadership, or delivery of work with significant impact in complex R&D environments