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Phd Materials Science Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

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 ... Experiences/Education - Required * BS, MS, or PhD in Optics, Optical Engineering, or a closely ...

... and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our ... Experiences/Education - Required * BS, MS, or PhD in Optics, Optical Engineering, or a closely ...

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 ... Experiences/Education - Required * BS, MS, or PhD in Optics, Optical Engineering, or a closely ...

Showing results 21-40

Phd Materials Science information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$52.3K

$122.3K

$170.7K

How much do phd materials science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd materials science in Rochester, NY is $122,321.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,300.00 and $164,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PhD in materials science?

A PhD in Materials Science is an advanced research degree focused on the study of the properties, structure, performance, and applications of materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites. Students in this program conduct original research to develop new materials or improve existing ones for use in various industries, including electronics, aerospace, energy, and healthcare. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, research institutions, or industry, where they contribute to innovations in technology and manufacturing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD in materials science?

To thrive as a PhD in Materials Science, you need advanced knowledge in physics, chemistry, and engineering principles, along with a doctoral degree in the field. Expertise in analytical techniques (like SEM, TEM, XRD), materials characterization tools, and proficiency in scientific programming or data analysis software are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective scientific communication help researchers excel and drive innovation. These skills enable the development of new materials and technologies, essential for progress across industries such as electronics, energy, and manufacturing.

What are some common challenges faced by PhD holders in materials science when transitioning from academia to industry roles?

PhD holders in Materials Science may encounter challenges such as adapting to faster-paced project timelines, learning to prioritize commercially viable outcomes over purely theoretical research, and collaborating with cross-functional teams from engineering, manufacturing, and business. Industry roles often require clear communication of complex findings to non-specialists and adjusting to structured project management systems. However, these challenges also offer opportunities for professional growth, broader impact, and the chance to see research translated into real-world products.

What is the difference between Phd Materials Science vs Materials Engineer?

AspectPhd Materials ScienceMaterials Engineer
Required CredentialsPhD in Materials Science or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science or Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, R&D departmentsManufacturing, product development, industry labs
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, advanced R&DManufacturers, aerospace, automotive, electronics
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic vs industry roles, research focusPractical application, product development, industry roles

The main difference between Phd Materials Science and Materials Engineer lies in their focus and work environment. PhD holders typically engage in research, academia, and advanced R&D, while Materials Engineers focus on applying materials knowledge in manufacturing and product development within industry settings.

What are popular job titles related to Phd Materials Science jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Phd Materials Science jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Phd Materials Science jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd Materials Science jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Phd Materials Science jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Phd Materials Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Phd Materials Science job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $122,321 per year, or $58.8 per hour.

Development Manager, Optical Fabrication-Fairport, New York

Corning

Spencerport, NY

$147K - $202K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Corning rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

Requisition Number: 74664
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 Incorporated is hiring a Development Manager, Optical Fabrication at our technology site in Rochester, NY. This role typically works 40+ hours per week with flex as needed.
Shape the future of advanced optics manufacturing in this hands-on leadership role within Corning's Advanced Optics surface finishing and optical fabrication development group. You will work closely with the Optical Metrology Development Group Lead in support of Advanced Optics initiatives in Fairport, NY; Keene, NH; Canton, NY; and Sullivan Park Research Center in Corning, NY. In this role, you will translate business and product roadmaps into clear priorities and strong execution across optical fabrication development, while leading innovation, developing people, and helping keep Corning at the forefront of optical systems innovation.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and technicians focused on optical fabrication development
  • Translate business and product roadmaps into clear plans, priorities, and execution strategies
  • Drive innovation in optical finishing and fabrication processes
  • Manage schedules, budgets, technical risks, and tradeoff decisions across multiple priorities
  • Partner closely with the Optical Metrology Development Group Lead, optical design teams, coating teams, and equipment vendors
  • Manage internal and external stakeholder relationships to support program goals
  • Ensure effective transfer of development work into engineering and production
  • Balance near-term execution with longer-term technology development needs
  • Build an inclusive, accountable culture through coaching, onboarding, and performance management
  • Reinforce a proactive safety mindset across the team

Minimum Qualifications & Skills
  • BS, MS, or PhD in Optics, Physics, Engineering, or a related field
  • 8+ years of experience in optical finishing and process development
  • 3+ years of people leadership or technical team leadership experience
  • Deep technical knowledge of high-precision optics fabrication technologies and methods
  • Effective communication and listening skills

Preferred Qualifications & Skills
  • Experience developing new fabrication process technologies and validating capability
  • Record of accomplishment of delivering technological innovation on schedule and within budget
  • Experience with business case development, value proposition validation, and technical risk management
  • Familiarity with program management tools such as MS Project or equivalent
  • Comfort using AI tools to support analysis, planning, or productivity

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $147,037.00 - $202,176.00 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.

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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