About the role
Description
About CKC Automation
CKC Automation transforms manufacturing processes through innovative automation solutions. Founded in 2005 (as CKC Engineering) and headquartered in Benicia, CA, we serve diverse industries across the Bay Area and West Coast — including automotive, medical device, pharmaceutical, energy, and semiconductor — combining deep technical expertise with creative problem-solving to tackle complex manufacturing challenges. We design and build custom automation solutions that improve efficiency, enhance quality, and drive innovation.
Our offerings include:
Machine
— Robotic workcells, build-to-print solutions, prototype equipment, and fixtures
Panel
— High-volume panel assembly from our UL 508A-certified panel shop
Controls / Data
— PLC, HMI, and robotic integration for optimized production. Real-time monitoring, analytics, and SCADA/data infrastructure
Website:
ckcautomation.com
Why Join Us
Get hands-on with cutting-edge PLC, robotics, and automation systems
Own high-visibility, technically challenging automation projects from concept through commissioning
Mentor other engineers and help shape technical standards and best practices
Grow toward greater project ownership and technical leadership as you deliver results
About the Role
We’re hiring a Lead Controls Engineer (Robotics and Machine) to spearhead the design, development, testing, and installation of control systems for industrial environments — primarily industrial robots and custom automated machinery.
This role requires a solid understanding of machine and robot design and programming concepts. You’ll collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, controls engineers, and project managers, to develop control systems tailored to client needs. You’ll mentor junior engineers, provide technical leadership, and drive the development of best practices across projects. You’ll also assist Sales during the project quoting phase by providing reasonable time estimates for labor and cost estimates for materials.
Requirements
Project & Technical Leadership
Lead the execution of control systems projects, from requirement gathering, design, and development through testing, deployment, and maintenance
Program and integrate industrial robots into automated control systems, including motion coordination and safety systems
Lead project meetings on a weekly or as-needed basis with customers and internal teams
Issue and maintain project schedules, advising management and customers when there are schedule issues
Design & Development
Design and develop software for custom automated machines, industrial robots, and other industrial control systems
Identify control system components and develop a Bill of Materials to meet project requirements
Understand panel layout drawings and electrical schematics
Specify process instrumentation; install, commission, and maintain systems at CKC and in client facilities
Mentorship & Best Practices
Mentor junior engineers, provide technical leadership, and drive the development of best practices across projects
Evaluate new technologies and tools that could enhance the company’s offerings
Pursue skills and/or certifications on mainstream platforms such as Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider, Beckhoff, Ignition, AVEVA, and GE
Operational Execution
Complete project management tasks such as billings, hours reports, forecasts, and budget management on time
Ensure that projects are completed within scope, timeline, and budget, while maintaining high quality standards and high customer satisfaction
Consistently and reliably communicate status updates on assigned tasks to team members, project managers, and customers
Acknowledge communications within 4 business hours
Spend at least 85% of working hours on billable work
Write clear documentation for customers and team members
Sales & Business Support
Support Sales with reasonable project cost and labor estimates during the proposal process
Encourage dormant or unresponsive customers with follow-up communications
Qualifications
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
3–10 years of experience, with two or more of the following: PLC programming, HMI programming, SCADA systems, robotic systems, VFDs, motion control, and control panel design
Knowledge of, or interest in, industrial processes, mechanical systems, and manufacturing equipment
Understanding of networking and communication protocols, e.g., EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profinet, IO-Link, DeviceNet
Strong communication (oral, written, and listening) and collaboration skills
Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills, with an aptitude for researching unfamiliar topics
Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple priorities
Benefits:
401(k)
401(k) matching
Health insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Employee assistance program
Flexible spending account
Life insurance
Paid time off
Paid holidays
Salary:
$100,000 – $135,000