Product Development Technician - Prototype Fabrication (R&D Lab)

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.  

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber and cable, hardware and equipment to being a comprehensive provider of industry-leading optical solutions across the broader communications industry.This segment is classified into two main product groupings – carrier network and enterprise network. The carrier network product group consists primarily of products and solutions for optical-based communications infrastructure for services such as video, data and voice communications. The enterprise network product group consists primarily of optical-based communication networks sold to businesses, governments and individuals for their own use.

Role Purpose

The R&D Engineering Technician supports product development by building, assembling, and testing prototypes; refining fabrication and assembly processes; and documenting work to support transfer into manufacturing. This hands-on role includes sheet metal fabrication, 3D printing, fiber optic cable mockups, and operation of lab and shop equipment. The position offers mentorship and opportunities for skill development in a collaborative R&D environment

Key Responsibilities

• Fabricate, assemble, modify, and rework mechanical prototypes using a variety of tools and techniques.
• Program, operate, and maintain lab equipment, including CNC machines, metal fabrication equipment, 3D printers, and hand tools.
• Build enclosures and prototypes, including routing, splicing, and testing fiber optic cables.
• Support engineering lab experiments to validate product designs, materials, and processes.
• Troubleshoot fabrication and process issues and provide feedback to engineering.
• Assist with the design and implementation of fixtures and tooling for fabrication and assembly.
• Participate in design reviews and provide input on manufacturability, serviceability, and ease of assembly.
• Create and maintain work instructions and standard operating procedures for assembly and testing.
• Support R&D projects throughout the product development lifecycle and communicate progress.
• Partner with manufacturing and quality teams to transition prototypes into production.

Experiences/Education - Required

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• 2–6 years of experience in fabrication, machining, and/or 3D printing.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and schematics.
• Familiarity with power tools and small machine shop equipment.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and commitment to quality.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing project needs.

Experiences/Education - Desired

• Experience operating 3D printers, preferably SLA or FDM.
• Welding experience.
• Experience with sheet metal fabrication equipment such as lasers and press brakes.
• Ability to contribute ideas and concepts during design problem-solving.
• Experience with fiber optic or electrical cable assembly is a plus; training will be provided.

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.  

The range for this position is $60,620.00 - $83,353.00 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. 

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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.

Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at View email address on corningjobs.corning.com .