Automation Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Rubbercraft is seeking a highly hands-on and solutions-oriented Automation Engineer to design, develop, and implement innovative manufacturing automation solutions across multiple production processes. This role will support continuous improvement initiatives focused on improving efficiency, safety, quality, throughput, and process consistency within a fast-paced aerospace manufacturing environment.

The Automation Engineer will lead automation projects supporting rubber extrusion, molding, trimming, assembly, and secondary manufacturing operations. The ideal candidate is technically strong, creative in problem-solving, and capable of driving automation projects from concept through implementation.

About Rubbercraft (RCC): Rubbercraft is a trusted leader in engineered elastomer solutions serving aerospace, defense, and industrial markets. Our team designs and manufactures precision-molded seals, gaskets, and custom rubber components that perform in the most demanding environments. We take pride in craftsmanship, collaboration, and a culture built on innovation and reliability.

Our Mission: Enabling custom engineered solutions through our Polymers Material Science, Technologies, and Applications expertise.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Process Development & Optimization

• Design and document manufacturing processes, routings, and work instructions for assembly and sub-assembly operations across multiple value streams.
• Apply Lean manufacturing tools including VSM, SMED, 5S, standard work, visual management, and Kaizen to eliminate waste and improve throughput.
• Conduct time studies, capacity analysis, line balancing, and resource planning activities.
• Analyze WIP variances and perform root cause investigations to identify process gaps and implement corrective actions.
• Develop visual management systems and operational reporting tools to support performance tracking and decision-making.

Automation Development

• Design and implement manufacturing automation systems for rubber extrusion, molding, trimming, assembly, and secondary operations.
• Develop creative and cost-effective automation solutions to improve productivity, reduce manual labor, minimize scrap, and improve process consistency.
• Create automation concepts, layouts, tooling, fixtures, robotic applications, and automated handling systems.
• Program, troubleshoot, and optimize PLCs, HMIs, robotics, sensors, drives, pneumatics, and related automation equipment.
• Lead automation integration projects including equipment specification, vendor coordination, installation, startup, validation, and continuous improvement activities.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend automation improvements for manufacturing operations.
• Maintain automation-related documentation including electrical schematics, process flows, operating procedures, and project records.

Project Management

• Manage scope, schedule, budget, and risk for automation, capital equipment, and continuous improvement projects.
• Build project plans, coordinate stakeholders, and lead cross-functional project teams.
• Develop business cases and ROI analyses for automation investments and process improvements.

Shop Floor Support

• Provide daily production support to resolve manufacturing constraints and technical issues.
• Support tooling and fixture design/procurement activities and coordinate with vendors and maintenance teams.
• Coach operators and technicians on standard work, troubleshooting, quality checks, and process improvements.
• Monitor key process indicators including scrap, rework, OEE, and FPY to drive structured improvement initiatives.
• Ensure all automation systems comply with company safety standards and industry regulations.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field preferred.
• 3+ years of experience in manufacturing automation, industrial engineering, or related manufacturing engineering environments.
• Experience supporting rubber manufacturing, extrusion, molding, trimming, or related industrial manufacturing processes preferred.
• Hands-on experience implementing automated manufacturing systems from concept through commissioning.

Technical Skills

• Strong understanding of industrial automation systems including robotics, motion control, sensors, pneumatics, and machine integration.
• Experience programming and troubleshooting PLCs and ladder logic.
• Experience with CAD software and automation system design.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Hands-on approach with the ability to support both engineering development and manufacturing floor activities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with machine vision systems.
• Lean/Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher) preferred.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems such as Great Plains.
• Experience with data analysis and visualization tools including Excel, Power BI, or Power Query.
• Basic Python knowledge is a plus.
• Knowledge of industrial safety standards and machine guarding requirements.
• Experience within aerospace, rubber, elastomer, or high-performance manufacturing environments preferred.
• Familiarity with AS9100 standards and environmentally controlled manufacturing environments.
• Experience with Panstone systems preferred.

Working Conditions

• This is an onsite position located in Long Beach, CA.
• Approximately 35% travel may be required to customer sites, vendors, or industry events.
• Work is performed in both office and manufacturing environments.
• Manufacturing operations may require use of PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, masks, gloves, and additional required safety equipment.
• May be exposed to manufacturing conditions including noise, dust, fumes, temperature variations, and confined spaces.
• Ability to stand, walk, and support manufacturing floor activities as needed.
• Ability to lift up to 20 pounds.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with employer match
• Paid vacation
• Life insurance and disability coverage
• Career development opportunities

Benefits:

At Rubbercraft, we recognize how important your career and benefits are to you and your family. We offer a full suite of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability coverage, accident insurance, critical illness insurance, basic and supplemental life insurance, employee assistance plan, retirement savings and matching, and other developmental opportunities. We are committed to supporting the way you live and work.

RCC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to complete the application process may contact Human Resources.

This position requires access to information subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Employment is contingent upon the applicant being a “U.S. person” as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15), which includes U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees, as required by U.S. export control laws.