Lead Mechanical Automation Engineer
2 days ago
El Segundo, CA | On-site
Opportunity Summary
A rapidly scaling hardware startup is developing breakthrough manufacturing systems that enable high-performance composite structures to be produced at significantly faster speeds and lower cost. The team is expanding its automation capabilities to support high-volume production for critical applications across aerospace, defense, and energy. As the Lead Mechanical Automation Engineer, you will design and develop the mechanical systems that drive automated manufacturing. You will translate complex manual steps into scalable mechanical mechanisms, own CAD design and build packages, and work hands-on to prototype and validate new equipment. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys creating mechanisms from scratch, thrives in an iterative hardware environment, and wants to build advanced automation systems.
About Us
We are an emerging technology company focused on reinventing how advanced composite components are manufactured. Our proprietary process supports rapid production of intricate structures while maintaining high performance and consistency. The team operates in a fast-paced environment where mechanical design, automation, and manufacturing intersect daily, and where engineers have a direct impact on production technology used across multiple programs.
Job Duties
Mechanical Design and Prototyping
- Lead CAD design for automated assemblies, fixtures, tooling, and mechanical subsystems
- Create complete mechanical build packages including drawings, GD&T, BOMs, and documentation
- Develop early prototype mechanisms that evolve into production ready systems
- Apply mechanical engineering fundamentals to improve accuracy, reliability, and throughput
- Convert manual process steps into scalable mechanical automation concepts
- Integrate actuators, sensors, motion components, and electromechanical assemblies
- Support prototyping efforts by assembling, testing, and refining hardware
- Troubleshoot systems on the shop floor to ensure performance and uptime
- Collaborate with manufacturing engineers and technicians to adapt processes for automation
- Develop equipment interfaces that prioritize usability, safety, and long term reliability
- Optimize mechanical systems to meet production targets and reduce operator burden
- Provide guidance during design, prototyping, and equipment builds
- Support long term automation planning and system architecture decisions
- Contribute to future equipment scaling strategies and capability development
- 3+ years designing mechanical systems for automated equipment or manufacturing environments
- Strong CAD proficiency with experience producing detailed assemblies and drawings
- Experience using GD&T, DFM, DFA, and high tolerance mechanical design practices
- Demonstrated ability to bring mechanical concepts through fabrication, assembly, and testing
- Hands on comfort with electromechanical hardware, wiring, sensors, and system debugging
- Ability to rapidly prototype low cost mechanical concepts that mature into production systems
- Strong communication and collaboration across mechanical, manufacturing, and controls teams
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline
- 5+ years in automation development or custom machinery design
- Background in composite manufacturing or equipment such as presses, ovens, or thermal systems
- Experience developing motion systems such as linear rails, actuators, or gantries
- Experience in aerospace, defense, or other high reliability manufacturing environments
- Exposure to integrating sensors, controls hardware, or robotics into mechanical designs
- Build foundational automation and mechanical capabilities for a growing startup
- Work on end to end development: concept, design, prototype, and production
- Significant ownership and influence over future automation strategy
- Fast paced environment where ideas quickly turn into deployed hardware
- Stock options
- Paid time off
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits
- 401k with company match
Compensation Details
$140,000 - $220,000
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