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Smart Factory Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Headquartered in San Diego, California, with offices in Monterrey, Mexico City, and Tijuana, Trinion is expanding its capabilities across logistics, material handling, and smart factory automation to ...

Staff Industrial Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$81K - $110K/yr

Support implementation of Industry 4.0, Smart Factory, and Digital Manufacturing initiatives. * Lead productivity transformation projects involving robotics, autonomous material handling, machine ...

Staff Industrial Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$81K - $110K/yr

Support implementation of Industry 4.0, Smart Factory, and Digital Manufacturing initiatives. * Lead productivity transformation projects involving robotics, autonomous material handling, machine ...

Showing results 21-40

Smart Factory information

See California salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do smart factory jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for smart factory in California is $16.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a smart factory?

A Smart Factory is a highly digitalized and connected production facility that relies on advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and big data analytics to optimize manufacturing processes. In a Smart Factory, machines and systems are interconnected, enabling real-time data sharing and automated decision-making. This results in improved efficiency, productivity, and flexibility, as well as reduced downtime and costs. Smart Factories are a key component of Industry 4.0, representing the future of manufacturing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a smart factory engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Smart Factory Engineer, you need a solid background in industrial engineering, automation, and data analytics, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), industrial IoT platforms, robotics, and certifications like Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing is typically required. Strong problem-solving, adaptability, and cross-functional communication skills set top candidates apart in this field. These capabilities are crucial for optimizing production processes, ensuring operational efficiency, and driving innovation in highly automated manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a smart factory environment?

Professionals in Smart Factories often encounter challenges such as integrating new technologies with legacy equipment, managing and securing large volumes of data, and adapting to rapidly changing automation systems. Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams—including IT, engineering, and production—is crucial to address these issues effectively. Additionally, staying current with emerging digital tools and maintaining cybersecurity standards can be demanding but offers significant opportunities for professional growth and innovation.

What is the difference between Smart Factory vs Automation Engineer?

AspectSmart FactoryAutomation Engineer
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in IoT, Industry 4.0Engineering degree, certifications in control systems, PLC programming
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, integrated digital systemsIndustrial settings, control rooms, manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageIndustry 4.0, smart manufacturingAutomation, control systems, robotics

Smart Factory refers to a highly integrated, digital manufacturing environment utilizing IoT and Industry 4.0 technologies. Automation Engineers focus on designing, implementing, and maintaining automation systems like PLCs and robotics. While both roles operate within manufacturing settings and require technical credentials, Smart Factory encompasses a broader digital transformation concept, whereas Automation Engineers specialize in automation system development and maintenance.

What happens in a smart factory?

A smart factory uses advanced technologies like automation, sensors, and data analytics to optimize manufacturing processes. It enables real-time monitoring, improved efficiency, and flexible production through interconnected systems and IoT devices, often requiring skills in programming, data analysis, and equipment operation.
Infographic showing various Smart Factory job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 57% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,615 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineering II

Riverside, CA

Collins Aerospace
Aviation • 10K+ employees

$75K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Collins Aerospace rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 251 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted:
2026-08-20
Country:
United States of America
Location:
US-CA-RIVERSIDE-8200B1 ~ 8200 Arlington Ave ~ BLDG B1
Position Role Type:
Onsite
U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:
This job requires a U.S. Person. A U.S. Person is a lawful permanent resident as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) or who is a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, U.S. permanent residents, or individuals granted refugee or asylee status in the U.S. are considered U.S. persons. For a complete definition of "U.S. Person" go here: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-22/chapter-I/subchapter-M/part-120/subpart-C/section-120.62
Security Clearance Type:
None/Not Required
Security Clearance Status:
Not Required
At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world's most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.
Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.
We are seeking for a Manufacturing Engineer II to join our team at Riverside - CA facility. The Manufacturing Engineer will support the production of advanced composite and metallic structures used on commercial and military programs. This role supports Collins Aerospace's Riverside Center of Excellence for composite bonding and focuses on stabilizing, sustaining, and improving production processes.
The successful candidate will learn and apply engineering fundamentals to optimize composite fabrication processes, resolve production issues, improve quality, and reduce cost. This position is hands-on and shop-floor-focused, working daily with operators, cross-functional engineers, and manufacturing leadership.
What You Will Do
  • Assist and train assemblers in composite fabrication operations including, layup, laser projection, ply cutting/kitting, CNC machining, tooling, robotic automation, and related bonding processes.
  • Create, maintain, and improve manufacturing documentation such as routings, bills of materials, visual work instructions, and standard work.
  • Ensure manufacturing processes comply with EHS, quality, and engineering specifications.
  • Investigate and resolve production issues using data analysis, root cause methods, and corrective action planning.
  • Use data analytics and SPC tools to improve productivity, FPY, and operational performance metrics.
  • Participate in PFMEA, control plans, tool design reviews, and continuous improvement activities.
  • Identify opportunities for process optimization, cycle-time reduction, automation, and digital manufacturing solutions.
  • Collaborate with operations, quality, design engineering, and suppliers on daily production support and technical projects.
  • Assist senior engineers in initiatives related to design changes, equipment upgrades, MRB activities, and manufacturing readiness.
  • Support adoption of smart factory technologies including real-time dashboards and digital work instructions.

Qualifications you Must Have
  • Typically requires a University Degree or equivalent experience and minimum 2 years of prior relevant experience.
  • Experience in interpreting engineering drawings, process specifications, technical reports, and work instructions.
  • Experience in MS Office and project management.
  • Experience with Continuous improvement tools (LEAN, Six Sigma, etc).
  • Ability to follow established procedures and adapt equipment or process concepts to production needs.
  • Basic coding or scripting experience (Python, MATLAB, VBA, SQL, or similar) to support automation, data analysis, and digital manufacturing initiatives.
  • Working Knowledge of networked equipment, sensor-based process monitoring, and automated data collection architectures.

Qualifications We Prefer
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, multitasking, and organizational skills.
  • Experience with CATIA V5/V6 or 3DExperience; familiarity with Composite Workbench or FiberSim NX.
  • Exposure to autoclave/oven programming, ply cutters, laser systems, or dimensional inspection tools.
  • Knowledge of composite inspection (NDI) techniques.
  • Hands-on composite fabrication experience through coursework, internships, student projects, or prior shop-floor work.
  • Exposure to connected factory or smart factory technologies, including digital work instructions, MES, IIoT platforms, or real-time factory data systems.
  • Experience using advanced analytic tools (Power BI, Tableau, Python, etc.) to visualize and interpret process data and drive manufacturing improvements.

What We Offer
Some of our competitive benefits package includes:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off after 121 days
  • Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option
  • Tuition reimbursement program
  • Student Loan Repayment Program
  • Life insurance and disability coverage
  • Optional coverages you can buy pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection
  • Birth, adoption, leave benefits
  • Ovia Health, fertility, and family planning
  • Adoption Assistance
  • Autism Benefit
  • Employee Assistance Plan, including up to 10 free counseling sessions
  • Healthy You Incentives, wellness rewards program
  • Doctor on Demand, virtual doctor visits
  • Bright Horizons, child and elder care services
  • Teladoc Medical Experts, second opinion program
  • And more!

Learn More & Apply Now!
Our Advanced Structures team leverages advanced materials and additive manufacturing to develop complex interior and exterior solutions. These solutions ensure structural integrity of the aircraft, help aircraft take off and land, stay trim in the air, move forward, carry cargo and conduct rescues. We delight our customers with superior products and best-in-class service. Our global team is committed to continuous improvement - we work hard to make our solutions lighter-weight, stronger and more technically advanced, so that plane travel can be safer, more affordable and more sustainable in the years to come. We are looking for the best and brightest to fly and land with us!
*Please ensure the role type (defined below) is appropriate for your needs before applying to this role.
Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products.
At Collins, the paths we pave together lead to limitless possibility. And the bonds we form - with our customers and with each other -- propel us all higher, again and again.
Apply now and be part of the team that's redefining aerospace, every day.
As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.
The salary range for this role is 75,800 USD - 144,200 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.
Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.
Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company's performance.
This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.
RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.
RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act.
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About Collins Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Collins Aerospace, a Raytheon Technologies company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio and expertise to solve customers' toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2018