About the Role
As a Process Controls Engineer (NPI), you will design, develop, and implement control systems for semi-automated to fully automated assembly equipment used in co-packaged optics (CPO) assembly. This role is embedded in a Technology and New Product Introduction (NPI) environment, focusing on prototype setups, pilot lines, and early-stage manufacturing systems. You will act as the key interface between process development, system engineering, and prototype machine execution, ensuring assembly, alignment, and test processes are translated into flexible, robust, and scalable solutions. Your work will enable the transition from R&D process concepts to stable, production-ready automation systems, supporting efficient scale-up and transfer to manufacturing or external automation partners.
Responsibilities
- Design and implement control architecture for precision assembly equipment in early-stage automation phase, prototyping laboratory benches and test vehicles.
- Define system interfaces and implement control strategies for motion control systems in active and passive optical alignment, pick & place and high-precision handling bonding and curing, and vision systems.
- Identify automation-relevant requirements early in the development phase to reduce effort, risk, and lead time during later automation projects.
- Collaborate closely with internal automation teams and external equipment suppliers to align and transfer product and process requirements, specifications, and acceptance criteria.
- Run assembly process and assembly pilot lines for new products.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- Over 5 years of hands-on experience with strong fundamentals in electrical, mechatronic or controls engineering.
- Practical experience with manual, semi-automated, or automated assembly systems, ideally including precision alignment systems.
- Solid understanding of motion control, robotics, and kinematics.
- Exposure to PLCs, automation software, or embedded/control programming.
- Curiosity, willingness to learn, and enthusiasm for hands-on engineering work.
- Good communication skills and a collaborative mindset.
- Fluent in English (spoken and written).
Skills
- Motion control
- Robotics
- Kinematics
- PLCs
- Automation software
- Embedded/control programming
- Optical fiber assemblies
- Fiber arrays
- Co-packaged optics
- Opto-mechanical assembly
- Process development
Location
- Berlin, Germany
Work Type
- Full-time
Experience Level
- Senior / Expert (Individual Contributor)
Education Level
- Bachelor's degree
Benefits
- Company-wide bonuses
- Long-term incentive programs
- Company-funded retirement plan
- Paid leave
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Recognition program
About the Company
- Corning is one of the world’s leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science.
- Our technologies push the boundaries of what’s possible.
- Our Optical Communications segment has 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.
Equal Opportunity
- 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.
