Senior Automation Engineer - Defense Composite Production

Job Description

Job Description

Senior Automation Engineer – Build Automated Systems for Next-Generation Composite Manufacturing!

El Segundo, CA | On-site

Opportunity Summary

A rapidly expanding seed-stage defense and advanced manufacturing startup is searching for a Senior Automation Engineer to take ownership of designing and deploying automated systems that will enable high-rate production of next-generation composite components. The team is scaling quickly with strong customer traction, and this role will directly support the development of automated cells, prototypes, and electromechanical systems that power mission-critical applications. In this position, you will lead the roadmap for automation across the organization, working hands-on with motion systems, sensors, tooling, and robotics. You will play a key role in translating complex manufacturing steps into scalable automated processes, supporting rapid iteration, and helping the company accelerate output, reduce cycle time, and improve repeatability. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment that blends hardware development with real production challenges, this is a rare opportunity to define and grow a core technical capability from the ground up.

About Us

We are an innovative defense-oriented engineering startup developing a new approach to composite manufacturing that dramatically increases speed, reduces cost, and enhances structural performance. Our team focuses on building automated, high-throughput processes for components used in aerospace, energy, and national security applications. With active programs underway and rapidly growing demand, we are expanding our engineering team to scale production and introduce automation into critical segments of our manufacturing process.

Job Duties

• Design, prototype, and refine automated manufacturing systems that improve production rate, repeatability, and overall quality.
• Develop early-stage automation concepts and convert them into functional minimum viable systems that can be matured for production.
• Build and iterate motion control, robotics, sensor integration, and electromechanical assemblies for key composite manufacturing steps.
• Create control logic, wiring layouts, and system integration plans from concept through deployment.
• Troubleshoot automation equipment, diagnose system issues, and improve reliability and uptime.
• Collaborate with machinists, manufacturing engineers, and operators to adapt production setups for automation.
• Partner with engineering teams to ensure production processes are inherently scalable and automation-ready.
• Lead, mentor, and manage engineers or technicians contributing to automation builds.
• Plan and execute long-term automation strategies and identify opportunities for system improvements across programs.
• Interface with customers when needed to discuss technical requirements, share updates, or gather feedback.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of automation engineering experience in manufacturing environments including robotics, motion systems, sensors, PLCs, and automation software.
• Demonstrated ability to develop automated systems and robotic solutions from concept through implementation.
• Experience scaling manufacturing processes and increasing efficiency through automation.
• Ability to design, fabricate, source, program, and troubleshoot full-stack automation systems.
• Comfortable wiring, testing, and validating electromechanical systems.
• Strong CAD skills and ability to create parts, assemblies, and drawings with GD&T.
• Proven ability to collaborate with manufacturing teams and support production-oriented improvements.
• Experience managing budgets, timelines, and project commitments.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related discipline.

Preferred Experience

• 8+ years working in automation for manufacturing environments.
• Understanding of composite manufacturing processes or automation of materials workflows.
• Experience automating thermal or pressure-based equipment such as ovens, presses, or infusion systems.
• Familiarity with Onshape or similar CAD environments.
• Background in aerospace, defense, or other high-reliability manufacturing sectors.

Why Join Us

• First automation-focused hire with the ability to shape the direction and growth of the automation function.
• Significant influence over long-term automation strategy and the opportunity to build and lead a team as the company expands.
• Opportunity to contribute to technical decision-making, system architecture, and novel automation capabilities.
• Room to develop new IP, design methodologies, and proprietary processes.
• Stock options.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits.

Compensation Details

$170,000 - $240,000

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