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Ceramic Design Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Corning

Optical Design Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$112K - $155K/yr

... glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of ... Develop lens design forms for complex optical systems that meet these system specifications.

Corning

Optical Design Engineer

Fairport, NY

$112K - $155K/yr

Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the ... Develop lens design forms for complex optical systems that meet these system specifications.

Corning

Optical Design Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$112K - $155K/yr

Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the ... Develop lens design forms for complex optical systems that meet these system specifications.

Corning

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Fairport, NY

$85K - $117K/yr

Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the ... Design precision mechanical components, assemblies, and subsystems for advanced manufacturing ...

Corning

Drafting/CAD Technician

Fairport, NY · On-site

$58K - $80K/yr

Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the ... About the Role We are seeking an experienced Drafting/CAD Technician to support the design and ...

Corning

Drafting/CAD Technician

Fairport, NY · On-site

$58K - $80K/yr

... glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of ... About the Role We are seeking an experienced Drafting/CAD Technician to support the design and ...

Corning

Drafting/CAD Technician

Fairport, NY

$58K - $80K/yr

Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the ... About the Role We are seeking an experienced Drafting/CAD Technician to support the design and ...

Corning

Optical Coating Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

S. preferred) in Optical Science / Eng, Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Eng, Ceramic Eng, Mechanical Eng. * 5+ years of optical coating design and manufacturing, ideally in the UV and visible ...

Corning

Optical Coating Engineer

Fairport, NY

S. preferred) in Optical Science / Eng, Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Eng, Ceramic Eng, Mechanical Eng. * 5+ years of optical coating design and manufacturing, ideally in the UV and visible ...

Corning

Optical Coating Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

S. preferred) in Optical Science / Eng, Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Eng, Ceramic Eng, Mechanical Eng. * 5+ years of optical coating design and manufacturing, ideally in the UV and visible ...

The Tile Shop

Part Time Sales Associate

Rochester, NY

$16 - $18/hr

... ceramic, travertine and other natural stones. With a network that comprises more than 140 stores ... Sense of Design: various styles, colors, and textures * Basic mathematical and computer skills

The Tile Shop

Part Time Sales Associate

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

... ceramic, travertine and other natural stones. With a network that comprises more than 140 stores ... Sense of Design: various styles, colors, and textures * Basic mathematical and computer skills

The Tile Shop

Sales Associate

Rochester, NY · On-site

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

... ceramic, travertine and other natural stones. With a network that comprises more than 140 stores ... Sense of Design: various styles, colors, and textures Basic mathematical and computer skills ...

The Tile Shop

Sales Associate

Rochester, NY

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

... ceramic, travertine and other natural stones. With a network that comprises more than 140 stores ... of Design: various styles, colors, and textures • Basic mathematical and computer skills • ...

The Tile Shop

Sales Associate

Rochester, NY · On-site

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

... ceramic, travertine and other natural stones. With a network that comprises more than 140 stores ... of Design: various styles, colors, and textures • Basic mathematical and computer skills • ...

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All JobsCeramic Design JobsCeramic Design Jobs in Rochester, NY

Ceramic Design information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$13

$27

$43

How much do ceramic design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for ceramic design in Rochester, NY is $27.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.59 and $31.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges ceramic designers face when working on collaborative projects with other departments?

Ceramic designers often collaborate closely with engineers, marketing teams, and production staff to bring their concepts to life. One common challenge is balancing creative vision with technical and manufacturing constraints, as certain design features may not be feasible for mass production or may require adjustments for cost-effectiveness. Effective communication and flexibility are essential, as designers may need to revise their work based on feedback from different departments. Navigating these challenges helps ensure the final product meets both aesthetic and functional requirements.

What is the difference between Ceramic Design vs Ceramic Engineering?

AspectCeramic DesignCeramic Engineering
Primary FocusCreating aesthetic and functional ceramic products and patternsDeveloping and improving ceramic materials and manufacturing processes
Required SkillsArtistic skills, design software, knowledge of ceramicsMaterials science, engineering principles, technical analysis
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, workshops, manufacturing facilitiesLaboratories, manufacturing plants, R&D centers
Common CertificationsDesign certifications, art degreesEngineering degrees, materials certifications

While Ceramic Design focuses on the artistic creation of ceramic products, Ceramic Engineering emphasizes the development and optimization of ceramic materials and manufacturing processes. Both roles are essential in the ceramics industry but serve different purposes—one in aesthetics and design, the other in technical development and production.

What do ceramic designers do?

Ceramic designers create functional and decorative objects such as pottery, tiles, and sculptures using clay and other ceramic materials. They develop designs, select glazes, and often work with tools like pottery wheels and kilns, combining artistic skills with technical knowledge of materials and firing processes.

Do potters make good money?

Potters, including those in ceramic design, typically earn variable income depending on experience, location, and whether they sell their work independently or through galleries. Many potters supplement their income through teaching, commissions, or selling at markets, but earnings can range from modest to professional levels based on skill and reputation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Ceramic Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ceramic Designer, you need strong artistic ability, a solid understanding of design principles, and experience with ceramics techniques, often demonstrated by a degree in art or design. Familiarity with ceramic-specific tools, glazing processes, and software like CAD or Adobe Creative Suite is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication help set individuals apart in this role. These skills ensure the creation of innovative, high-quality ceramic products that meet both aesthetic and functional requirements.

What is the highest paid design job?

In the field of ceramic design, senior roles such as Lead Ceramic Designer or Creative Director tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. Advanced skills, extensive experience, and a strong portfolio can contribute to higher compensation in this specialized design area.

What is ceramic design?

Ceramic design is the art and practice of creating functional or decorative objects from clay and other ceramic materials. It involves shaping, glazing, and firing clay to produce items such as pottery, tiles, tableware, and sculptures. Ceramic designers use both traditional hand-building methods and modern technologies like 3D modeling and industrial kilns. The field combines creativity with technical knowledge of materials and processes to produce unique and practical ceramics. Ceramic designers may work independently, for manufacturers, or in collaboration with architects and artists.

What jobs can you get with ceramics?

With a background in ceramics, you can pursue jobs such as ceramic artist, pottery instructor, ceramic technician, or production potter. These roles often require skills in hand-building, glazing, and kiln operation, and may involve working in studios, galleries, or manufacturing settings.
What are popular job titles related to Ceramic Design jobs in Rochester, NY? For Ceramic Design jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Ceramic Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ceramic Design job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,444 per year, or $27.6 per hour.
Optical Design Engineer

Optical Design Engineer

Corning

Fairport, NY • On-site

$112K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Corning rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 128 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 535 rated manufacturers

Job description

Requisition Number: 75595

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
Role Purpose

Corning Advanced Optics is seeking an experienced optical design engineer to join our team.  This engineer will contribute to the design, analysis, tolerancing, and build of complex optical systems, working in multidisciplinary teams of engineers from concept development through hardware delivery.

Key Responsibilities
  • Participate in early-stage discussions with customers and distill & translate customer requirements into concrete system specifications.
  • Develop lens design forms for complex optical systems that meet these system specifications.
  • Develop manufacturing tolerances and build strategies for these lens systems using custom sensitivity and tolerancing software.
  • Collaborate with system metrology and controls engineers to develop appropriate measurement and optimization test benches.
  • Provide optical design support to both prototype development and long-term manufacturing.
  • Analyze the influential metrics to understand operational performance of an optical system.
  • Plan and implement optical design processes to transfer the system to production.

In summary, this engineer will work within a multi-disciplinary project team to analyze, engineer, and build lens systems from concept to completion.                  

Experiences/Education - Required
  • BS, MS, or PhD in Optics, Optical Engineering, or a closely related field. 
  • 5+ years of industry experience in optical design engineering, working on the full life cycle of complex optical systems, from design concept to hardware delivery.
  • Proficiency using commercial optical design software for the design, optimization, and analysis of imaging optical systems; experience with CODE V is preferred
  • Experience with distilling a complex set of customer optical system requirements into cohesive optical design specifications.
  • Keen understanding of optical manufacturing strategies, sensitivity analysis, tolerancing, and fabrication methods.
  • Familiarity with lens system performance metrics, including first-order properties, wavefront error,  resolution, distortion, polarization-sensitive performance (transmission, retardance, and diattenuation), etc..
  • Ability to communicate optical design concepts, tradeoffs, and technical details with a multi-disciplinary team and with the customer.
Experiences/Education - Desired
  • Experience supporting optical projects through concept design, engineering development, and hardware delivery.
  • Knowledge of optical design principles for imaging and/or illumination systems.
  • Familiarity with optical designs for illumination systems.
  • Experience using a wide range of optical software analysis tools for both imaging and illumination systems, including CODE V, Zemax, LightTools, FRED, etc..
  • Broad optical design experience in monochromatic and broadband lens systems operating in the UV and/or visible portions of the spectrum.
  • Familiarity with refractive, reflective and catadioptric design forms.
  • Macro development in CODE V, and data analysis and script development in MATLAB or Python.
  • Solid background in mathematics (calculus and linear algebra) and in geometrical and physical optics, to be equipped to work with proprietary or novel performance metrics for our most challenging optical systems.

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.

The range for this position is $112,902.00 - $155,240.00 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 accommodations@corning.com.

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