Lead Controls Engineer - Robotics & Machine

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

• Get hands-on with cutting-edge PLC, robotics, and automation systems
• Own high-visibility, technically challenging automation projects from concept through commissioning
• Mentor other engineers and help shape technical standards and best practices
• Grow toward greater project ownership and technical leadership as you deliver results

We’re hiring a Lead Controls Engineer (Robotics and Machine) to spearhead the design, development, testing, and installation of control systems for industrial environments - primarily industrial robots and custom automated machinery.

This role requires a solid understanding of machine and robot design and programming concepts. You’ll collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, controls engineers, and project managers, to develop control systems tailored to client needs. You’ll mentor junior engineers, provide technical leadership, and drive the development of best practices across projects. You’ll also assist Sales during the project quoting phase by providing reasonable time estimates for labor and cost estimates for materials.

• Lead the execution of control systems projects, from requirement gathering, design, and development through testing, deployment, and maintenance
• Program and integrate industrial robots into automated control systems, including motion coordination and safety systems
• Lead project meetings on a weekly or as-needed basis with customers and internal teams
• Issue and maintain project schedules, advising management and customers when there are schedule issues

• Design and develop software for custom automated machines, industrial robots, and other industrial control systems
• Identify control system components and develop a Bill of Materials to meet project requirements
• Understand panel layout drawings and electrical schematics
• Specify process instrumentation; install, commission, and maintain systems at CKC and in client facilities

• Mentor junior engineers, provide technical leadership, and drive the development of best practices across projects
• Evaluate new technologies and tools that could enhance the company’s offerings
• Pursue skills and/or certifications on mainstream platforms such as Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider, Beckhoff, Ignition, AVEVA, and GE

• Complete project management tasks such as billings, hours reports, forecasts, and budget management on time
• Ensure that projects are completed within scope, timeline, and budget, while maintaining high quality standards and high customer satisfaction
• Consistently and reliably communicate status updates on assigned tasks to team members, project managers, and customers
• Acknowledge communications within 4 business hours
• Spend at least 85% of working hours on…