Machine Design Engineer – Precision Systems

Corning is hiring two Machine Design Engineer – Precision Systems roles to join the Science & Technology organization at Sullivan Park in Corning, New York. As Corning’s flagship research and development campus, Sullivan Park is where scientists and engineers work together to turn new ideas into advanced products, manufacturing processes, and enabling technologies across optical communications, specialty materials, and other high-impact applications.In this role, you will help design and develop the custom precision machines, tooling, fixturing, and motion-enabled mechanical systems that Corning uses to create, test, refine, and scale new products and manufacturing processes. This is a strong opportunity for an engineer with experience in precision mechanical systems, machine design, automation equipment, mechatronics, or related hardware environments who can apply sound engineering judgment to solve difficult technical problems and help move complex ideas from concept through prototype and toward production-capable implementation.These opportunities may be filled at different levels based on the selected candidate’s education, experience, technical depth, and demonstrated impact.What You’ll DoDesign and develop custom precision machines, tooling, fixturing, and mechanical subsystems used in product and process developmentCreate robust mechanical solutions for first-generation and next-generation equipment supporting new products and manufacturing capabilitiesTranslate process requirements into practical equipment designs, performance requirements, and system functionalitySolve engineering challenges involving precision motion, alignment, tolerance control, machine robustness, fabrication, assembly, and system integrationWork across proof-of-concept prototypes, internal development platforms, and production-capable machine systemsIntegrate commercially available technologies, components, and processes into custom machine solutionsPartner with Research, Development, Engineering, and Manufacturing teams, along with controls engineers, process engineers, optical scientists, and glass scientistsUse engineering analysis, experimentation, prototyping, and hands-on problem-solving to reduce technical risk and improve equipment performanceSupport installation, debug, start-up, and transfer activities with internal teams, suppliers, and external machine builders or system integratorsMinimum QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Precision Engineering, or a related engineering field5+ years of relevant engineering experienceExperience designing and developing complex mechanical systems, machines, tooling, or fixturingExperience with machine design, advanced equipment development, or automation systemsProficiency with computer-aided design tools such as SolidWorks or InventorStrong mechanical problem-solving skills and attention to detailAbility to work effectively across multidisciplinary technical teamsWillingness to travel as needed to support project and business needsPreferred QualificationsMaster’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Precision Engineering, or a related field10+ years of relevant engineering experience; 15+ years preferred for higher-level scope3–5+ years of experience in precision engineeringExperience designing and building precision motion systemsExperience with metrology tools such as coordinate measuring machines or laser interferometersKnowledge of precision machining methods, materials, and fabrication considerationsExperience supporting prototype and production-capable machine systemsExperience researching prior art and documenting intellectual property