Associate Downstream Process Development Scientist Jobs in Rochester, NY

Requisition Number: 76076

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.  

Corning’s businesses are ever-evolving to best serve our customers, industries, and consumers. Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical communications, display, automotive, and solar markets. We are changing the world with: 

• Trusted products that accelerate drug discovery, development, and delivery to save lives
• Damage-resistant cover glass to enhance the devices that keep us connected
• Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light
• Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences 
• Auto glass and ceramics to drive cleaner, safer, and smarter transportation 
• Solar polysilicon, wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, enabling low-cost solar energy solutions

Scope of Position:

The Process Engineer supports optical system assembly and test processes across both the Molecular Cleanroom (MCR) and Class 10,000 cleanroom environments. The role provides hands-on support to manufacturing operations with a focus on process stability, equipment performance, problem solving, and continuous improvement while developing foundational expertise and progressing toward subject matter expert (SME) capability.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities:

• Provide daily production support, including troubleshooting of process upsets and equipment issues
• Identify and support process improvement efforts to reduce cost, improve yield, reduce scrap, and increase capacity
• Monitor key process metrics such as yield, scrap, cycle time, and equipment uptime
• Participate in problem-solving and root cause investigations using data-driven methods
• Work cross-functionally with production, quality, and engineering teams to support issue resolution and corrective actions
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including work instructions, process sheets, flow charts, and checklists
• Assist with investigation of product returns, repairs, and RMA activities, including failure analysis and Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) support
• Support efforts to ensure manufacturing processes meet customer and product requirements
• Assist with new product introduction activities and transition processes from prototype into repeatable manufacturing
• Participate in design reviews and risk assessment activities
• Assist with implementation of process and documentation updates
• Perform manufacturing tasks in accordance with approved work instructions as needed
• Maintain housekeeping standards and support basic equipment and workspace maintenance
• Follow and promote safe work practices and cleanroom protocols

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field
• 0–2 years of experience in manufacturing, process engineering, or technical support roles
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work effectively on a team in a cross-functional environment
• Hands-on mechanical aptitude and interest in manufacturing processes
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple assignments
• Willingness to learn new processes, tools, and technologies

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in precision assembly, test, or cleanroom manufacturing
• Exposure to problem-solving tools such as root cause analysis, 5 Whys, fishbone diagrams, SPC, or DOE
• Familiarity with quality systems, documentation practices, or CAPA processes
• Experience working with manufacturing equipment, fixtures, or process documentation
• Interest in developing technical depth and growing into a subject matter expert

Travel Requirements:

• Less than 5%. Travel may include training, networking opportunities, and occasional customer or supplier visits

Hours of Work:

• Typical first-shift schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Occasional evening or weekend support may be required based on production needs

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.

The range for this position is $70,776.00 - $97,317.00 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.  

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 accommodations@corning.com.