Robotics Program Manager Jobs in Petaluma, CA (NOW HIRING)

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