Senior R&D Optical Assembly Development Engineer

Senior R&D Optical Assembly Development Engineer

Role Purpose

We are looking for a skilled and innovative Optical Assembly Development Engineer to join our R&D organization. In this role, you will support the development of advanced optical component and module assembly solutions for next-generation connectivity applications, with a strong focus on micro-optics.

You will provide technical leadership in R&D activities related to optical assembly concepts, precision alignment, joining methods, and characterization of optical performance. Working closely with cross-functional engineering teams and the measurement/metrology group, you will help define, evaluate, and mature robust technical approaches that can be successfully implemented in high-volume manufacturing environments.

This position is well suited for an engineer with hands-on laboratory experience, strong knowledge of optical components and micro-optic integration, and a passion for solving complex technical challenges through experimentation, analysis, and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support R&D activities related to the development of optical assembly concepts for micro-optic components and systems.
• Design, build, and refine experimental setups and engineering approaches for optical alignment, joining, and performance evaluation.
• Plan and execute experiments in collaboration with international project teams and technical stakeholders.
• Work closely with the measurement/metrology group to define characterization strategies, evaluate measurement data, and ensure the required technical insight for development activities.
• Develop and apply methods for precision alignment of optical elements and subassemblies at micro-scale tolerances.
• Support the selection and evaluation of materials, fixtures, joining methods, and assembly strategies for optical applications.
• Analyze technical data, identify root causes of performance variation, and resolve complex engineering challenges.
• Contribute to the advancement of optical technologies in line with technical roadmaps and business priorities.
• Document technical findings, provide clear recommendations, and share knowledge across the organization.
• Drive innovation through patent applications, technical publications, presentations, and knowledge sharing within the department.
• Support the transition of newly developed solutions from R&D into industrial implementation.

Qualifications

Education

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Physics, Optics, Photonics, Opto-Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.

Experience

• Hands-on laboratory experience working with optical components and advanced optical instrumentation.

• Practical experience with optical and micro-optical assemblies, including characterization and technical evaluation.

• Experience in designing and developing experimental setups, engineering fixtures, or technical workstations for optical applications.

• Good understanding of precision optical alignment, including micro-alignment methods.

• Experience analyzing technical data and applying statistical methods to support engineering decisions.

• Experience working in accordance with quality and metrology standards.

• Very good command of English and Polish.

• Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with measurement system analysis (MSA).

• Practical knowledge of optical simulation tools such as Zemax or similar software.

• Experience with bonding of optical components.

• Programming skills in Python, C#, or similar languages.

• Experience with automation of laboratory, test, or characterization stations.

• Experience in industrial R&D projects or in transferring new technical solutions from development into manufacturing.

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a structured and data-driven approach.

• Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary and international teams.

• Strong hands-on engineering capability combined with attention to detail.

• Good communication skills and the ability to present technical topics clearly.

• Curiosity, initiative, and a strong drive for innovation and continuous improvement.

• 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.

• Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportu