Early Stage Development Engineer
$85K - $117K/yr
Hands-on exposure to laser processing, adhesive bonding, precision dispensing, optical alignment, or similar material transformation technologies; basic optics or opto-mechanics knowledge is a plus.
Early Stage Development Engineer
$85K - $117K/yr
Hands-on exposure to laser processing, adhesive bonding, precision dispensing, optical alignment, or similar material transformation technologies; basic optics or opto-mechanics knowledge is a plus.
Early Stage Development Engineer
Hickory, NC · On-site
$85K - $117K/yr
Hands-on exposure to laser processing, adhesive bonding, precision dispensing, optical alignment, or similar material transformation technologies; basic optics or opto-mechanics knowledge is a plus.
Early Stage Development Engineer
Hickory, NC · On-site
$85K - $117K/yr
Hands-on exposure to laser processing, adhesive bonding, precision dispensing, optical alignment, or similar material transformation technologies; basic optics or opto-mechanics knowledge is a plus.
Early Stage Development Engineer
Hickory, NC · On-site
$85K - $117K/yr
Hands-on exposure to laser processing, adhesive bonding, precision dispensing, optical alignment, or similar material transformation technologies; basic optics or opto-mechanics knowledge is a plus.
Early Stage Development Engineer
Hickory, NC · On-site
$85K - $117K/yr
Hands-on exposure to laser processing, adhesive bonding, precision dispensing, optical alignment, or similar material transformation technologies; basic optics or opto-mechanics knowledge is a plus.
Opto Alignment Technology information
See Hickory, NC salary details
$26.9K - $30.7K
3% of jobs
$33.2K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$30.7K - $34.6K
34% of jobs
The median wage is $36.1K / yr.
$34.6K - $38.5K
34% of jobs
$40.3K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$38.5K - $42.3K
9% of jobs
$42.3K - $46.2K
5% of jobs
$46.2K - $50.1K
4% of jobs
$50.1K - $53.9K
4% of jobs
$53.9K - $57.8K
3% of jobs
$57.8K - $61.7K
1% of jobs
$61.7K - $65.5K
1% of jobs
$65.5K - $69.4K
1% of jobs
$26.9K
$41.1K
$69.4K
How much do opto alignment technology jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for opto alignment technology in Hickory, NC is $41,122.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,600.00 and $43,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is Opto Alignment Technology?
Opto Alignment Technology refers to the field and techniques used to precisely align optical components, such as lenses, mirrors, and lasers, within devices or systems to achieve optimal performance. This technology is essential in manufacturing processes for products like cameras, fiber optics, and laser systems. It combines knowledge of optics, precision engineering, and sometimes automation or robotics to ensure that light travels through components with minimal loss and distortion. Careers in this field often involve using specialized equipment and software to test, measure, and correct the alignment of optical elements. Mastery of Opto Alignment Technology is crucial for industries where high-precision optical performance is required.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Opto Alignment Technology?
To excel in Opto Alignment Technology, you need a strong background in optics, photonics, precision engineering, and often a relevant degree in physics or engineering. Familiarity with laser alignment tools, optical metrology equipment, CAD software, and industry certifications such as those from SPIE or OSA are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this field. These competencies are essential for ensuring high-precision alignment, optimizing optical system performance, and maintaining quality in advanced photonics applications.
What are common challenges faced by professionals working in Opto Alignment Technology, and how can they be addressed?
Professionals in Opto Alignment Technology often encounter challenges such as maintaining high precision during component alignment, working with sensitive optical instruments, and troubleshooting complex systems under tight deadlines. Accurate alignment is critical to ensure optimal system performance, and even minor errors can cause significant issues. To address these challenges, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest alignment tools and calibration techniques, work collaboratively with engineers and quality assurance teams, and develop strong problem-solving skills. Continuous training and attention to detail can also help in overcoming these hurdles and advancing in this specialized field.
What is the difference between Opto Alignment Technology vs Optical Alignment Technician?
| Aspect | Opto Alignment Technology | Optical Alignment Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Typically requires technical certifications in optics or laser systems | Requires similar certifications in optics and alignment procedures |
| Work Environment | Involves working with laser systems, precision instruments, and optical equipment | Works in labs, manufacturing facilities, or field settings with optical and laser devices |
| Industry Usage | Used in industries like telecommunications, aerospace, and manufacturing for system calibration | Commonly employed in optical manufacturing, testing, and maintenance |
Opto Alignment Technology and Optical Alignment Technician roles share similar skills and work environments, focusing on precision alignment of optical systems. While both require certifications in optics, Opto Alignment Technology often emphasizes advanced laser and optical system calibration, whereas Optical Alignment Technicians may focus more on hands-on assembly and testing. Both roles are vital in industries that depend on precise optical performance.
What cities near Hickory, NC are hiring for Opto Alignment Technology jobs?
Cities near Hickory, NC with the most Opto Alignment Technology job openings:
Early Stage Development Engineer
Hickory, NC
Corning
8.3
Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
66th of 545 rated manufacturers
People enjoy working here
Good employer
Recommended by students
Paid breaks
Recommended by parents
$85K - $117K/yr
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO
Re-posted 16 days ago
Job description
Requisition Number: 76164
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.
Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber and cable, hardware and equipment to being a comprehensive provider of industry-leading optical solutions across the broader communications industry.This segment is classified into two main product groupings – carrier network and enterprise network. The carrier network product group consists primarily of products and solutions for optical-based communications infrastructure for services such as video, data and voice communications. The enterprise network product group consists primarily of optical-based communication networks sold to businesses, governments and individuals for their own use.
Role Purpose
At Corning, we're engineering what comes next in automated manufacturing — and this role is where that work begins. As an Early-Stage Development Engineer, you'll design, build, and personally operate the lab-scale testbeds that answer the hardest technical questions before any industrial system is designed. Working hands-on with material transformation technologies — laser processing, adhesive bonding, precision dispensing, optical alignment, and beyond — you'll deliver the go/no-go technical evidence that shapes what Corning builds at scale.
Key Responsibilities
- Partner with technology leads and automation process engineers to frame and prioritize the technical questions that must be answered at the earliest stage of development.
- Design and build lab-scale apparatus and testbeds — integrating mechanical, electrical, motion, sensing, vision, and controls elements — to explore and validate candidate process approaches.
- Run structured experiments (Design of Experiments, DMAIC, hypothesis-driven testing) to characterize processes, define process windows, and generate statistical evidence supporting go/no-go decisions.
- Develop working knowledge of the underlying material transformation physics to make sound design decisions and communicate results clearly to cross-functional stakeholders.
- Produce clear technical documentation — concepts, designs, results, assumptions, and risks — to support design reviews, downstream system specification, and IP capture.
- Identify scaling, throughput, and safety considerations early to ensure testbeds have clear line-of-sight to the eventual production system.
Experiences/Education - Required
- BS in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field with 2–4 years of relevant experience; or MS with relevant internships or research experience (0–2 years).
- Strong fundamentals in engineering mechanics and basic electrical circuits.
- Hands-on proficiency in a lab environment — working with tools, alignment fixtures, basic electronics, and prototype hardware.
- Ability to write scripts or programs for data acquisition or motion control (e.g., Python, MATLAB) and aptitude to learn new tools quickly.
- Demonstrated ability to reason from first principles and draw sound engineering conclusions from limited data.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including technical documentation, diagrams, and design reviews.
Experiences/Education - Desired
- Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in a relevant technical discipline.
- Hands-on exposure to laser processing, adhesive bonding, precision dispensing, optical alignment, or similar material transformation technologies; basic optics or opto-mechanics knowledge is a plus.
- Mechanical design experience in SolidWorks or equivalent CAD software.
- Experience with motion control, machine vision, or sensor integration.
- Experience using MATLAB or Python for engineering analysis, data analysis, or simulation; familiarity with structured experimentation methods (DOE, DMAIC, or Six Sigma equivalents).
- Understanding of tolerancing, alignment sensitivity, repeatability, and mechanical error budget concepts; prior experience building benchtop prototypes or lab apparatus in a university, internship, or work setting.
This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $85,304.00 - $117,293.00 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.
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, Corning provides company matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan of up to 4% of pay when you contribute at least 6% of pay.
- 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.
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.
