Senior Program Manager

Senior Program Manager

Date: Oct 9, 2026

Location: Hickory, NC, US, 28601 Keller, TX, US, 76248

Company: Corning

Requisition Number: 78572

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.

Scope of Position: Lead multi-disciplinary, multi-functional global teams in the development and delivery of new technology solutions for any of the business segments and/or regions within the Corning Optical Communications business. Manage complex programs in a global matrixed organization, assuming full responsibility for schedule, performance and budget.

Responsibilities: Manage the schedule, technical performance, and budget of major product or process development programs involving complex, technically challenging solutions for Optical Communications applications. Build and maintain a global program structure to ensure the success of the overall program. This will typically include establishing a core team and multiple project and work stream teams with members from the development, engineering, and manufacturing organizations across multiple geographic regions. Establish objectives and develop, or ensure development, of comprehensive project plans then monitor adherence to the master plans and schedules. Secure and maintain adequate resources to enable the success of programs and projects. Secure and utilize external engineering, development, manufacturing and other functional resources where appropriate to address the needs of the program. Direct all phases of technology projects from inception through completion guided by a scalable innovation process using structured tools, efficient processes, disciplined communication, and effective decision making. Interact with external customers to develop a clear understanding of their challenges and requirements as needed. Work closely with internal customers to establish a clear understanding of their functional requirements. Participate with Product Management in the development of business cases for projects within the program to ensure maximum value is created with Corning resources. Serve as the primary conduit of communication and interaction with executive sponsors and steering teams regarding the program. Regularly communicate program and project status. Prepare and deliver presentations and reports as required.

Required Qualifications: Bachelor of Science or higher in Engineering or other relevant discipline. Extensive experience in the management of complex, cross-functional, culturally diverse teams containing both technical and non-technical roles. 10+ years total of development of manufactured products, engineering, and/or manufacturing experience (preferably 2 or more of these areas) with demonstrable project management capability. 5+ years of experience at the Manager level. Demonstrated personal initiative with a track record of completing challenging business objectives. Customer contact experience and the ability to translate needs into relevant and actionable program requirements. Effective leadership, organization, and planning skills, with ability to handle changing priorities, changing requirements and high levels of ambiguity Demonstrated communication, interpersonal, and influencing skills at all levels of an organization (team, peer, and senior executive levels) with a demonstrated ability to build relationships in a heavily matrixed, team environment. Ability to manage and effectively leverage a team of diverse expertise, backgrounds, cultures and styles without direct reporting authority.

Desired Qualifications: Multiple-year work experience in at least two of the following areas: Commercial, Product Line Management, Development, Manufacturing, or Engineering. Six Sigma Black Belt training, experience and/or certification. Completion of formal project management training with further preference for Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

Travel Requirements: Domestic and international travel expected. The amount of travel time will vary based on the needs of the program. Estimated at 25-50%.

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.

The range for this position is $183,877.00 - $252,831.00 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 View email address on click.appcast.io.