Automation Controls Engineer

About the Role

Corning Incorporated is seeking an Automation Controls Engineer to join our Automation Engineering group in Concord, NC. In this role, your main responsibility is to ensure that complex manufacturing equipment and processes meet daily production requirements in terms of safety, quality, and reliability. You will monitor process attributes daily, initiate and verify responses throughout the support chain, and champion continuous improvement activities, including implementation of new technology and fundamental process understanding, in support of cost reduction and quality improvement projects. You will also seek out and implement cost reduction opportunities, consult and advise on projects, and provide coaching/mentoring to others in Automation Engineering.

Responsibilities

• Provide electrical controls support for a 24/7 manufacturing environment — troubleshoot complex equipment and process issues, isolate root causes, and validate corrective actions with measurable results.
• Create and manage project plans including scope, schedule, cost estimates, and acceptance criteria for assigned automation engineering projects.
• Track daily production and quality metrics, own key attribute performance, and maintain dashboards and trend tools to support operational decision-making.
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives including new technology implementation, automation upgrades, and cost reduction projects.
• Partner with Operations, IT, Facilities, Project Engineering, and Quality Engineering (QE) teams to resolve equipment issues and drive process performance improvements.
• Coach and mentor automation engineering team members on machine controls, programming, and safe operating practices.

Requirements

• B.S. in Electrical Engineering, Electro-Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technology degree.
• 5+ years of controls or equipment engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Subject matter expertise in Allen Bradley controllers including Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), I/O devices, motion control, communication protocols, and field wiring; ability to generate, debug, and modify PLC code in ladder logic and structured text.
• Knowledge of IEC 61131 programming methodology, closed-loop control systems, PID tuning, and AC/DC electrical theory.
• Experience with electro-mechanical devices including servo motors, valves, sensing devices, and conveyors; experience with industrial vision systems and scanning devices.
• Working knowledge of robotics and ability to write and modify Fanuc Teach Pendant programs; ability to generate and interpret electrical drawings using AutoCAD Electrical.
• Familiarity with National Electrical Code (NEC), ANSI standards, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) electrical codes, and lockout/tagout (LOTO) safety procedures.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of Beckhoff TwinCAT.
• Experience leveraging external suppliers and system integrators for process equipment design, build, and integration.
• Experience with data analysis using Microsoft Excel or Access.
• Six Sigma or Performance Excellence training (Green Belt or higher).
• Knowledge of electrical grounding and shielding principles.

Skills

• Identifies root causes of process variation and implements corrective actions with data-driven, measurable outcomes.
• Manages multiple projects and priorities effectively in a fast-paced, 24/7 manufacturing environment.
• Collaborates across functional teams — Operations, IT, Facilities, Engineering, and QE — to deliver shared equipment and process goals.
• Communicates technical findings and project status clearly to engineering peers and plant leadership.

Schedule

Standard business hours, Monday–Friday; flexibility required for off-hours. Less than 5% domestic travel in support of project objectives.

Pay

The range for this position is $105,994.00 - $145,743.00 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.

Benefits

• Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives aligned with key business results.
• 100% company-paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career.
• Matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, with total contributions reaching between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service.
• Comprehensive health and well-being benefits including 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).
• Recognition program to celebrate successes and reward exceptional contributions.