Automation Engineer Intern Summer 2026

Job description

Automation Engineer Intern - Summer 2026

**Date:** Oct 22, 2025

**Location:** Hickory, NC, US, 28601

**Company:** Corning

Requisition Number: 71268

**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**

Internship with the Corning Optical Connectivity Solutions Division Engineering organization supporting global automation project work.

The internship will provide experience in connector assembly processes and other various connectivity core processes.

The intern may also be called upon to support multi-functional teams and apply project management skills to diverse applications.

The objective is to help drive consistency in practices and process improvements across the Division’s manufacturing plants using PM tools/PEx tools, in areas such as cost management, quality, and/or safety.

**Program Perks:**

+ Competitive salaries
+ Assistance with housing and travel
+ Meaningful project and final project presentation

**Intern Activities:**

+ Social and networking opportunities
+ Weekly tech talks
+ Community involvement

**Key Responsibilities**

+ Support in implementation of the division global manufacturing strategies and initiatives.
+ Perform Design Failure Mode and Effect Analysis for future projects
+ Critique/review automation designs from global vendors to ensure most cost-effective execution
+ Effectively support multiple and broad ranges of connectivity projects that support the Division Manufacturing Strategy
+ Organize the projects by defining scope and objectives, securing needed resources, and establishing the project execution plan.
+ Develop and lead project budgets and schedules
+ Support all aspects of project management from Initiation, Planning, Implementation & Control and Closure including key areas of:
+ Regular project meetings
+ Develop project plans through the facilitation of teams
+ Collaborate with internal SME's and outside vendors
+ Executing required tasks hands-on, when required
+ Provide project updates to key partners
+ Forecasting Capital and Expense Spending
+ Ensure that the highest level of project safety standards is practiced and met

**Experiences/Education - Required**

**Education and Experience:**

+ Currently enrolled in Manufacturing, Automation, Mechanical, Electrical, Electromechanical Engineering program
+ At least 2 years of related coursework in Engineering curriculum
+ Must be available for 10 weeks during Summer 2026 (May-August 2026) with a graduation date of December 2026 or later
+ Be interestedr Corning, Inc after graduation, if presented with a full-time job opportunity.

in working fo
+ Be willing to work at the posted job location

**Required Skills:**

+ Ability to build relationships and interact with various locations of the organization
+ Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to effectively present information
+ High initiative, able to work independently (Self-motivated and self-sufficient), and in a team environment
+ Flexibility; able to change and adjust smoothly as the situation demands
+ Demonstrate a strong work ethic and display exemplary personal behavior
+ Be an effective communicator and able to deliver messages through presentations, written, and verbal communication
+ Computer literacy (Microsoft Office suite)
+ Problem-solving skills
+ Organizational skills
+ Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously

**Experiences/Education - Desired**

+ Microsoft Project Mentality
+ Microsoft Visio, MindManager, similar platform
+ Proficient in quality tools like KT, Performance Excellence, and Project Management tools

**This position does not support immigration sponsorship.**

​The range for this position is $1,635.00 - $3,185.00 biweekly.

Starting pay for the successful applicant is prescribed based on geographic location, nature of position, and year in school.

**​** **A job that shapes a life.

**

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.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.

To request an accommodation, please contact us at.

**Nearest Major Market:** Hickory

Required Skill Profession

Other General