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 About this Role On-Site As a Senior Mechanical Engineer, you will lead the mechanical design and execution of custom automation equipment from concept through delivery. Mechanical engineering is the core of this role — you will own system architecture, detailed design, build support, and customer acceptance for the projects you're responsible for. You will also bring applications engineering experience to the table, contributing to scope development, cost estimating, and proposal support as needed to help translate customer requirements into technically sound, deliverable solutions. This is a high-ownership role: you're expected to stand behind your designs and your numbers, and to carry that accountability through the full project lifecycle. What You'll Do
Mechanical Engineering Design & Execution
Lead mechanical design of custom automation equipment (concept through release)
Define system architecture and design strategy across projects
Perform/review advanced engineering calculations (stress, motion, tolerance, thermal)
Ensure compliance with engineering standards, safety, and manufacturability
Provide technical expertise and mentorship to engineers
Applications Engineering, Quoting & Estimating
Support concept development, feasibility analysis, and system architecture during the proposal stage
Contribute to scopes of work aligned to customer requirements and technical constraints
Prepare cost estimates (materials, labor, fabrication, assembly, engineering hours) as needed
Identify technical risks, assumptions, and gaps in proposals
Partner with sales and leadership on competitive, technically sound solutions
Own and execute projects you help quote
Project Ownership & Delivery
Own scope, risk, cost, and execution across the full project lifecycle
Identify and resolve design, manufacturability, and performance issues
Support build, assembly, debugging, and system integration on the floor
Drive change management and cost/scope control
Customer & Cross-Functional Leadership
Lead customer design reviews and technical discussions
Serve as primary technical point of contact
Collaborate with controls engineering, electrical, manufacturing, and project management teams
Support FAT, SAT, installation, and post-delivery troubleshooting
Continuous Improvement & Standards
Improve quoting accuracy, design standards, and engineering processes
Develop technical documentation and best practices
Drive improvements in cost, reliability, and performance
Requirements
What We're Looking For
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience
7–10+ years of experience in custom automation, special machinery, or engineered-to-order equipment
Advanced proficiency in SolidWorks or equivalent 3D CAD software
Strong understanding of machine design and mechanical systems
Knowledge of manufacturing and fabrication methods
Experience with material selection and cost drivers
Experience with applications engineering, quoting, or estimating, and the ability to develop accurate cost estimates and technical scopes
Experience leading projects and mentoring engineers
Hands-on experience supporting builds, debugging, and resolving real-world issues
Background in robotics, motion control, pneumatics, or mechatronics
Strong decision-making skills with a high level of accountability and ownership
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
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