Precision Mechanical Sr. Staff Scientist

Requisition Number: 71218

The company built on breakthroughs. ​ 
Join us.​ 

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. 

Scope of Position

The Precision Mechanical Sr. Staff Scientist leads the design, development, and integration of advanced mechanical systems and components with sub-micron precision. This role drives the exploration, discovery, and development of new principles, materials, and methodologies that enable next-generation technologies, spanning the full product lifecycle—from concept and prototyping to manufacturing transfer—requiring deep technical expertise, innovative problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration. The ideal candidate is expected to influence technology strategy, mentor others, and ensure that mechanical innovations meet the highest standards of performance, reliability, and manufacturability.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Lead the design and analysis of precision mechanical systems, assemblies, and components for new products and process platforms
• Develop and validate prototypes, leveraging advanced modeling, simulation, and experimental techniques
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams—including optics, electronics, materials, and manufacturing—to ensure seamless system integration
• Define technical requirements, performance metrics, and validation protocols for mechanical solutions
• Troubleshoot complex mechanical challenges, applying root-cause analysis and innovative solutions
• Document technical work, present findings to stakeholders, and contribute to intellectual property
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership within project teams
• Stay current with emerging technologies, tools, and industry best practices in precision engineering
• Less than 15% travel, potential international

Experiences/Education - Required

• Ph.D. in Engineering or related discipline +5 years relevant industrial experience, or M.S. in Engineering or related discipline +10 years relevant industrial experience, or B.S. in Engineering or related discipline +15 years relevant industrial experience
• Expert-level proficiency in precision mechanical design, analysis, and fabrication
• Advanced knowledge of CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, COMSOL)
• Strong background in materials selection, mechanics, and manufacturing processes (machining, additive, microfabrication, etc.)
• Proven track record of delivering complex mechanical systems from concept through production
• Strong data analysis, technical writing, and presentation skills; proficiency with inter-office tools such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in high-performance, multi-disciplinary teams
• Excellent communication skills for technical and business audiences

Experiences/Education - Desired

• Experience in designing and analyzing optomechanical or mechatronic systems
• Familiarity with automation, robotics, or motion control
• Knowledge of advanced manufacturing and metrology techniques
• Background in product commercialization and technology transfer
• Patent, publication, or industry benchmarking experience
• Supervisory or managerial leadership experience/skills
• Exposure to project management or cross-functional leadership

This position supports immigration sponsorship.

The range for this position is $111,536.00 - $153,362.00 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.

A job that shapes a life. 

Corning offers you the total package. 

Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.

• Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
• As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, we provide a 100% company-paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career. Combined with matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, Corning’s total contributions to your retirement accounts can reach between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service.
• Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.
• Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That’s why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions.

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.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. To request an accommodation, please contact us at [email protected] .