Optical Apprentice Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Requisition Number: 74647

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

Purpose of the Position:

Apprentices are responsible for learning and executing production processes to manufacture small parts, including parts of varying levels of complexity. They will be expected to operate different types of CNC machines to produce these parts.

Key Responsibilities:

This position includes, but is not limited to, the following duties:

• Work in a team environment to optimize the output of quality products, assist others as needed, and promote safety awareness.
• Read and follow routers, work instructions, drawings, and other relevant documents.
• Perform machining operations for parts of all complexity levels.
• Train other operators when necessary.
• Become proficient in multiple machine types, including lathes and mills.
• Perform inspections to distinguish acceptable product from defective product and take appropriate corrective action.
• Read and understand blueprints, identify parts, and record data in accordance with routers, work instructions, and drawing instructions.
• Understand performance metrics and work toward targeted objectives.
• Proactively report any part, process, or equipment issues as soon as they are identified.

Working Conditions

• Must be able to remain on one’s feet for most of the shift.
• Must be able to work with small parts under a microscope.

Education Requirements

• GED or High School Diploma required.
• Must plan to enroll in school for an Apprentice Program in the Fall Session, November 2026.
• Machinist I will be required to have completed an Apprentice Program (cost covered by Corning).

Experience

• 6+ months of machining experience preferred.

Schedule During Classroom Sessions

Monday – Thursday

• Hands-on Practical: 09:00 – 16:30
• Classroom Schedule: 18:45 – 21:45
  (or similar schedule)

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.

The range for this position is ​$18.00 hourly rate - $20.00 hourly rate.  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.