Automation Engineer

About the role

Mach Industries is building autonomous defense hardware to support national security. The Automation Engineer will own the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of automated manufacturing systems that directly enable production and deployment. You will be responsible for creating reliable and scalable manufacturing processes from the ground up on the company's physical production floor. This position requires a hands-on engineer who thrives in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment and is accountable for the integrity of the production automation lifecycle. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to translate technical requirements into robust automated solutions. The role demands ownership of complex problems and the initiative to drive projects from concept to validated execution. You will be a key technical leader ensuring that manufacturing systems meet stringent quality, safety, and schedule targets.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Build and deploy automated manufacturing setups integrating robotics, conveyors, vision systems, and PLCs to enable production-scale operations.
• Program and maintain HMIs and industrial control systems to ensure intuitive operator interfaces and reliable machine behavior.
• Evaluate existing production workflows to identify inefficiencies and drive initiatives that increase throughput and reduce overall costs.
• Commission and validate new manufacturing equipment, performing detailed testing to verify that systems meet functional and performance specifications.
• Perform root cause analysis on equipment malfunctions and drive corrective actions to resolve issues on the production floor quickly.
• Work collaboratively with mechanical, electrical, and quality teams to refine production processes and resolve cross-domain integration challenges.
• Document system schematics, control code, and operating procedures to maintain clear knowledge transfer and support long-term maintainability.
• Manage version control for hardware, electrical, safety, pneumatic, and networking configurations to ensure traceability and system integrity.
• Implement and maintain test procedures that validate automation functionality under real-world production conditions.
• Support the development of process documentation and standard work instructions for operators and maintenance staff.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of manufacturing lines by applying data-driven analysis and automation best practices.
• Ensure all automation solutions are designed with maintainability, safety, and scalability as core design principles.
• Assist in the development of tooling and fixtures that enable efficient and automated production flows.
• Liaise with supply chain and operations to ensure automation strategies align with production schedules and business objectives.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Bring 3+ years of professional experience in industrial engineering or manufacturing automation within a regulated or technical environment.
• Demonstrate practical experience programming PLCs and developing HMIs for industrial control applications.
• Show a background in integrating robotics and industrial automation systems into production environments.
• Prove ability to troubleshoot and solve complex technical problems directly on the production floor with minimal supervision.
• Show familiarity with industrial communication standards used in automation and control systems.
• Exhibit strong attention to detail and the ability to follow complex technical procedures accurately.
• Demonstrate the capability to read and interpret engineering schematics and technical documentation.

Nice to have

• Experience in high-mix, low-volume or advanced manufacturing environments.
• Proficiency in machine vision systems and automated inspection techniques.
• Experience with CAD software and mechanical integration practices.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Background in defense, aerospace, or other regulated sectors with strict compliance requirements.
• Experience with IEC 61131-3 structured text and ladder logic programming.
• Familiarity with safety standards such as ISO 13849 or IEC 61508.
• Knowledge of UL508A, NFPA 70, and NFPA 79 for industrial electrical systems.
• Experience with industrial networks and protocols like EtherCAT, PROFINET, and OPC UA.
• Proficiency in Beckhoff TwinCAT 3, TwinCAT Automation Interface, or Siemens TIA Portal.

Practical notes

This role requires compliance with U.S. export control laws, including ITAR and EAR. Offers may be contingent upon your authorization to access controlled technology without the need for an export license sponsorship. Mach uses E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. All hired candidates must meet these authorization requirements to finalize employment. The role is based in Huntington Beach, California, and requires on-site presence. Travel is not expected as part of the standard duties for this position. This position is not eligible for remote or hybrid work arrangements. Benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.