Senior Automation Engineer

At Senra Systems, we believe that the future of manufacturing lies not in automation, but in configuration.  

We supercharge electrical wire harness manufacturing through software configuration, transforming skilled assembly tasks into high-throughput production lines. We enable customers to design what they want, when they want it and deliver harness builds at record-breaking speed.

We're seeking a hands-on Automation Engineer to maximize the capability of our existing automated equipment and identify, design, and commission new machines while assisting with the development of Senra's automation roadmap. You'll be the technical expert who bridges the gap between leadership's automation vision and shop floor reality - getting immediate value from underutilized equipment while planning strategic investments for our expanded facility. 

This isn't a research role or a pure controls engineering position. You'll be in the shop programming machines, designing fixtures, troubleshooting issues, and training our team. You'll have direct impact on our ability to scale production efficiently while maintaining aerospace quality standards. This role reports directly to the Manufacturing Engineering Manager. 

What you'll own:

• Equipment Optimization & Utilization (50%) 
  • Assess current automated wire preparation, crimping, cutting, and testing equipment to identify capability gaps 
  • Evaluate reliability and robustness of machine-MES integration and partner with software and product teams to drive improvements 
  • Program and optimize machine parameters for improved throughput, quality, and setup efficiency 
  • Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and controls issues on production equipment 
  • Deliver measurable utilization improvements on existing automation assets 
  • Work with equipment vendors on capability enhancements, upgrades, and technical support 
• Custom Tooling & Fixture Development (20%) 
  • Design and implement custom tooling and fixtures to expand automated processing capability across product mix 
  • Fabricate and validate tooling solutions quickly to support production needs 
  • Integrate equipment into streamlined production workflows to minimize material handling and cycle time 
• Automation Strategy & Expansion (20%) 
  • Work with leadership to develop and maintain a clear automation roadmap aligned with production capacity targets 
  • Support facility expansion by specifying, evaluating, and commissioning new automation equipment 
  • Create business cases for automation investments with clear ROI and capacity impact 
• Training & Documentation (10%) 
  • Train manufacturing engineers and technicians to handle routine equipment programming and troubleshooting independently 
  • Create documentation for equipment setup, programming, utilization, and maintenance procedures 
  • Build capability across the team to support automation independently 

What you'll bring to the team: 

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field or an associates degree and 7+ years of experience  
• 5+ years hands-on experience with manufacturing automation equipment 
• Strong PLC programming skills and HMI development experience 
• Proven ability to design and fabricate custom tooling, fixtures, and end effectors 
• CAD skills for fixture design (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or equivalent) 
• Electrical troubleshooting and controls diagnostics capability 
• Experience with machine parameter optimization for throughput and quality 
• Self-directed problem-solver who can identify issues and drive pragmatic solutions 
• Strong project management and communication skills with ability to engage effectively with technicians, engineers, and executives 
• Hands-on approach with comfort training operators and technicians on the shop floor how to use equipment

Bonus Points: 

• High-mix, low-to-medium volume manufacturing background 
• Experience with automated wire processing equipment (crimpers, cutters, strippers, testers) 
• Familiarity with Komax, Schleuniger, Cirris, or similar equipment brands 
• Wire harness, cable assembly, or electronics manufacturing experience 
• Aerospace/defense manufacturing experience and understanding of AS9100 requirements 
• Lean manufacturing principles and quick changeover techniques 
• Hands-on machining or fabrication skills 
• Experience in scaling manufacturing environments (startup to mid-size growth) 

Compensation:  

• Compensation will be based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors.  
• Salary Range: $150,000-$200,000
• This is an onsite role at our second facility in Cypress, CA.

Benefits:  

• Unmatched opportunities to drive impact on a friendly and mission-driven team  
• Own a piece of the pie with equity participation!   
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability coverage  
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Dependent Spending Account (DSA) for health-related expenses  
• 20 vacation days per year and 12 company holidays for rest and relaxation
• a 401(k) plan to set yourself up for retirement
• Choose a record you love, and we'll add it to our growing vinyl collection!  
• $50/month DoorDash credit – lunch is on us!   
• Up to $100/month reimbursement for gym memberships   
• Fully stocked kitchen with snacks and beverages  
• Regular team-building events, lunches, and the occasional breakfast burrito!   
• Bright, open office with communal spaces for collaboration and free parking  
• Conveniently located near the metro, major freeways and local dining spots  

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. Contact us at 

jobs@senrasystems.us

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.