Supervisor, Laser Process Development
Role Purpose
Corning is seeking a Laser Process Development Supervisor to lead a team of engineers and scientists focused on advanced laser process and optical solution development. In this role, you will set technical direction, drive early-stage innovation, and guide a high-performing team to deliver scalable process capabilities that translate from the lab into Corning's global manufacturing operations.
Key Responsibilities
Lead, coach, and develop a team of laser process development engineers and scientists — including goal-setting, performance management, mentorship, and career development.
Direct the design, development, and improvement of laser-based processes for potential deployment across Corning's global manufacturing facilities, with a focus on scaling early-stage concepts into manufacturing-ready capability.
Oversee the build and refinement of benchtop and semi-automated prototype stations and optical systems used to evaluate and iterate on new process concepts.
Champion structured problem-solving — including Design of Experiments (DOE), root cause analysis, Statistical Process Control (SPC), and Six Sigma methods — to resolve complex technical challenges and drive continuous process improvement.
Manage the team's project portfolio, balance lab and capital resources, and partner cross-functionally with Applied R&D, Research, Manufacturing, Engineering, and Program Management to align priorities and deliver results.
Experiences/Education - Required
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Photonics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline
5+ years of relevant experience in laser processing, optics, photonics, or related process development, including demonstrated experience leading or supervising technical teams or direct reports
Working knowledge of laser theory, laser platforms, and light–material interaction
Working knowledge of optical theory, light propagation, and optical system behavior and components
Hands-on experimental background, including building or operating lab setups, troubleshooting technical issues, and interpreting experimental data
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate data into actionable engineering decisions
Effective written and verbal communication, including the ability to lead technical reviews and present to technical and executive audiences
Experiences/Education - Desired
PhD in Photonics, Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical field
Prior formal supervisory experience managing engineers or scientists in an R&D, process development, or advanced manufacturing environment
Experience with optical modeling software (e.g., COMSOL, Zemax, or Python-based analytical tools)
Familiarity with 3D Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo) and statistical analysis platforms (e.g., Minitab, JMP, or advanced Excel)
Background in one or more of the following: automation and process development, prototype equipment or semi-automated station design, fiber optics and photonics applications, or translating laboratory work into scalable manufacturing processes
Laser safety leadership experience in a multi-user lab environment (e.g., serving as or supporting a Laser Safety Officer (LSO))
Pay and Benefits
The range for this position is $122,978.00 - $169,095.00 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.
This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
Corning offers a comprehensive compensation and benefits package that includes:
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
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)
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.