Senior Mechanical Engineer, Applications & Automation

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:

• Custom Automated Equipment — Robotic workcells, build-to-print solutions, prototype equipment, and fixtures
• Control Panels — High-volume panel assembly from our UL 508A-certified panel shop
• Control Systems Integration — PLC, HMI, and robotic integration for optimized production
• Industrial Data Solutions — Real-time monitoring, analytics, and SCADA/data infrastructure

Website: ckcautomation.com  

About this Role

 On-Site

This role sits at the intersection of engineering and business impact. As a Senior Mechanical Engineer, Applications & Automation, you will be responsible for both defining what we build and ensuring it is successfully executed.

Approximately half of your time will be spent on quoting, estimating, and scope development, translating customer needs into well-defined, technically sound, and commercially viable solutions. The other half will focus on mechanical engineering design and execution, owning those solutions through detailed design, build, and customer acceptance.

This is a high-ownership role where you are expected to stand behind your numbers and your designs. You will influence project direction early, make critical technical and financial decisions, and carry that accountability through the full lifecycle. This is not a handoff environment, what you quote, you help deliver.

What You'll Do

Applications Engineering, Quoting & Estimating (˜50%)

• Lead concept development, feasibility analysis, and system architecture for custom automation solutions 
• Develop detailed scopes of work aligned to customer requirements and technical constraints 
• Prepare accurate cost estimates (materials, labor, fabrication, assembly, engineering hours) 
• Identify technical risks, assumptions, and gaps in proposals 
• Partner with sales and leadership to deliver competitive, technically sound solutions 
• Ensure continuity by owning and executing projects you quote 

Mechanical Engineering Leadership & Execution (˜50%)

• 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 leadership and mentorship to engineers 

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 

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 
• Demonstrated experience in applications engineering, quoting, or estimating 
• 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 
• Proven 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