Optical Associate Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Requisition Number: 75364
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.
Join our Fairport team as an Optical Fabrication Technician, where you'll help manufacture precision optical components that support breakthrough products across industries. We are seeking candidates with 2+ years of hands-on experience in optical fabrication, specifically in MRF (Magnetorheological Finishing) and Conventional Polishing. This is an opportunity to apply your technical expertise in an advanced manufacturing environment while contributing to high-performance optical solutions.
The Specialty Materials segment manufactures products that provide more than 150 material formulations for glass, glass ceramics and fluoride crystals to meet demand for unique customer needs. Consequently, this segment operates in a wide variety of commercial and industrial markets that include display optics and components, semiconductor optics components, aerospace and defense, astronomy, ophthalmic products, telecommunications components and cover glass that is optimized for portable display devices.
Come break through at Corning. A career without limits; ready for you.
Key Responsibilities:
• Perform optical fabrication processes for precision optical components.
• Operate and support MRF (Magnetorheological Finishing) equipment and processes.
• Perform conventional polishing on optical components to meet surface quality and figure requirements.
• Interpret blueprints, work instructions, and process documentation.
• Configure, set up, and operate fabrication and polishing equipment.
• Monitor and adjust process parameters within established standards.
• Perform quality tests, measurements, inspections, and metrology-related tasks.
• Troubleshoot fabrication processes and equipment issues.
• Prepare materials and components for production.
• Interface with plant systems (e.g., document control, manufacturing execution system, etc.).
• Maintain accurate records and communicate process updates effectively.
• Support housekeeping, autonomous maintenance, and clean work area standards.
• Actively engage with continuous improvement and cost reduction programs.
• Train peers on qualified operations as needed.
• Perform other Operations Associate job duties as required.
Who Thrives Here:
• Enjoys hands-on, detail-oriented technical work
• Has experience in precision optical fabrication and polishing
• Takes pride in craftsmanship, quality, and accuracy
• Communicates clearly and works well within a team environment
• Eager to learn, improve processes, and embrace manufacturing technology
• Values working in a diverse, supportive environment
Working Conditions:
• Climate-controlled facility
• Frequent light lifting (up to 5 lbs), occasional lifting up to 15 lbs
• Standing and walking for extended periods
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) required while on the manufacturing floor
What You'll Need:
• High School Diploma or GED (required)
• 2+ years of experience in optical fabrication (required)
• Hands-on experience with:
• MRF (Magnetorheological Finishing)
• Conventional Polishing
• Experience in precision manufacturing, optical finishing, or related field
• Ability to interpret work instructions, drawings, and process specifications
• Comfort with basic computer systems and willingness to learn new tools
This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $27.00 hourly rate - $31.00 hourly rate with a $2 shift differential for hours worked on 2nd shift and a $3 shift differential for hours worked on 3rd shift. 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.
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.
Ready to shape the future with us? Apply today!
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.