We are a national recruitment firm with a strong presence in engineering and technical staffing in Los Angeles and Orange County. We have years of experience recruiting talent for clients in the Robotics and Automation industries. Our client is a cutting-edge leader in the Robotics and Industrial Automation sector, specializing in the design and development of AI-powered robotic systems engineered to automate high-mix, low-volume manufacturing processes. Known for pushing the boundaries of manufacturing technology, this company develops innovative solutions that focus on automated metal grinding, deburring, polishing, and surface finishing applications.
With deep expertise in machine vision, artificial intelligence, and robotic path planning, the company designs fully integrated custom machines that optimize productivity, improve precision, and reduce manual labor in some of the most challenging manufacturing environments. Their robotic solutions are deployed across industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical devices, industrial equipment, and metal fabrication.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
As a Special Machine Designer, you will lead the design and development of custom automation equipment and specialized robotic grinding systems. You will work closely with cross-functional teams—including mechanical engineers, controls engineers, robotics specialists, and manufacturing experts—to deliver highly customized, production-ready machines.
Key responsibilities include:
- Design and develop custom machines, robotic workcells, and automated grinding systems for metalworking and finishing applications.
- Create detailed 3D models, part drawings, and mechanical assemblies using CAD software such as:
- SolidWorks
- Siemens NX (Unigraphics)
- Autodesk Inventor
- Develop complete mechanical systems, including frames, fixtures, tooling, drive mechanisms, and pneumatic or hydraulic components.
- Design and integrate robotic arms (e.g., FANUC, ABB, KUKA, UR) and end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) specific to grinding, polishing, and material removal processes.
- Collaborate with electrical and controls engineers to integrate PLC systems (such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens S7) and motion control systems for full automation functionality.
- Apply DFM/DFA (Design for Manufacturability and Assembly) principles to ensure robust, production-ready machine designs.
- Conduct FEA (Finite Element Analysis) and stress analysis on critical components to ensure structural integrity and performance.
- Specify mechanical components, actuators, gearboxes, linear guides, bearings, and automation accessories from leading suppliers.
- Work with vendors and suppliers to select suitable components, materials, and manufacturing methods.
- Generate detailed Bill of Materials (BOM) and manufacturing documentation for prototyping and production.
- Support the entire project lifecycle from concept through build, testing, and commissioning at customer sites.
- Participate in design reviews, risk assessments, and FMEA (Failure Modes and Effects Analysis) for complex machine designs.
- Utilize simulation tools to verify robotic cell layouts, cycle times, and grinding tool paths.
Contribute to ongoing continuous improvement (CI) initiatives, incorporating lean design and cost optimization strategies.
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Industrial Design, or a closely related engineering discipline is required.
- Advanced coursework or certifications in Automation, Robotics, or Machine Design is a plus.
Required Skills and Experience
- Minimum 5 years of experience in custom machine design, robotic workcell development, or industrial automation system design.
- Proven track record of designing automated grinding machines, deburring systems, or metal finishing equipment.
- Advanced proficiency with 3D CAD software such as:
- SolidWorks (preferred)
- Autodesk Inventor
- Siemens NX
- Strong knowledge of robotic automation platforms including FANUC, ABB, KUKA, or Universal Robots (UR).
- Familiarity with motion control, servo systems, pneumatics, and hydraulics.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and collaborate with controls engineers on PLC integration.
- Strong understanding of material selection, mechanical tolerances, and manufacturing processes such as CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, and welding.
- Working knowledge of FMEA, risk analysis, and other quality-focused design practices.
- Proficiency in GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) and ability to create detailed drawings for production.
- Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with experience working in multidisciplinary engineering teams.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience designing machines for metal grinding, surface finishing, or material removal automation.
- Knowledge of simulation software such as RobotStudio, Process Simulate, or ROBOGUIDE for robotic path planning and cycle time verification.
- Experience with CAM software for CNC machining path generation (Mastercam, Fusion 360, etc.).
- Lean Six Sigma or similar continuous improvement certifications.
- Familiarity with Industry 4.0 technologies, including IoT-enabled machines, predictive maintenance, and data-driven automation systems.
- Experience working in industries such as aerospace, automotive, or industrial equipment manufacturing.
