Senior Automation Technician

Senior Automation TechnicianDate: Sep 12, 2026Location: Hickory, NC, US, 28601Company: CorningRequisition Number: 76268The 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 PurposePerforms a variety of technical duties and activities, including equipment design, build, installation, and ramp-up activities, including planning and performing equipment acceptance tests. May be involved in developing experimental procedures, data collection from manufacturing processes, and data analysis to help engineers resolve production issues or improve manufacturing yields. May lead and direct P&M trades and/or contract trades personnel during equipment installation, repairs, troubleshooting or upgrades.Key ResponsibilitiesUnderstands equipment used in key process(es) and interprets data from process(es) to solve problemsWorks with teams focused on product innovation, cost reduction projects, etc.Troubleshoots process and equipment issuesWorks with engineers to develop and implement testing and integration of equipmentWorks on equipment projects to reduce costs, downtime and/or defects and increase yieldsProactively guides front-line production workforce and technical teams to comply with safety, health, equipment standard operating procedures, and environmental regulationsProvides inputs to project plans that identify resources and accurate timelinesEquipment transportation logisticsMay be asked to participate in developing a new process or machine to improve the current processMay be asked to write process, product or equipment documentation. Independently solves most problems on basis of examining pertinent factsTravel Requirements ~ 25-50%, international included (Mexico, Poland)RequirementsTraining/apprenticeship/certification in technical field Minimum 10 years of experiences with technical delivery teams Strong mechanical aptitude Reads blueprints and/or drawings Other technician and/or operator roles that lead to a better understanding of the equipment and processes Desired Skills and Experience Degree in technical field or strong Math/Science background Project Management skills Lean Fundamentals Yellow Belt or Green Belt Performance Excellence tools Has had several leadership opportunitiesThis position does not support immigration sponsorship. The range for this position is $70,954.00 - $97,562.00 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. 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