Principal Automation & Controls Engineer (Aerospace)

TL;DR

Principal Automation & Controls Engineer (Aerospace): Own the company roadmap of production automation across hardware and control layers with an accent on machine design, robotics, computer vision, and PLC/HMI systems. Focus on conceiving, building, and qualifying electromechanical automation assemblies, shaping HMI strategies, and implementing process controls to increase production takt rate and yield.

Los Angeles, CA. Must be a U.S. person per ITAR export control regulations (U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or certain protected individuals).

$175,000 – $200,000 + equity

Company

Building the largest and highest-power satellites for LEO to deep space missions, backed by $450M from leading investors, with multiple launches planned through 2026-2027.

What you will do

• Own the production automation roadmap, collaborating with mechanical, electrical, and production engineers.
• Conceive, design, and develop electromechanical automation assemblies in-house or via vendors.
• Build out, activate, and qualify automation projects including robotics, computer vision, and controls.
• Shape and implement HMI and PLC strategies for easy operation and repeatable results.
• Implement strategies to boost production takt rate, reliability, and first pass yield.
• Mentor junior engineers and set technical standards for automation at scale.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace, materials, or relevant engineering discipline.
• 4+ years in high-volume manufacturing, production, or hands-on engineering.
• 6+ years in industrial automation and controls, including full-stack ownership of PLC/HMI/robotics.
• Strong hands-on aptitude for working directly with hardware on the production floor.
• In-depth knowledge of precision assembly and electromechanical fabrication.
• Experience with engineering drawings, schematics, technical documentation, CAD (NX or equivalent), and GD&T.
• Full-stack experience with industrial automation hardware, controls, electrical/fluid schematics.

Nice to have

• Exposure to space, defense, or high-reliability manufacturing.
• Experience designing automation for manufacturability and developing production processes from the ground up.
• Familiarity working closely with technicians and build tooling.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits: paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave.
• Fast-paced startup environment with high ownership and vertical integration of production.
• Equity in the company.
• Encourages non-traditional career paths and motivated individuals.