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Manufacturing Engineer – Build and Scale Advanced Optical Hardware Production! Gardena, CA | On-site Opportunity Summary A fast-growing deep-tech startup in Southern California is hiring a Manufacturing Engineer to help build and scale the production systems behind next generation optical hardware. The company is developing advanced technology that relies on precision electro-mechanical assemblies, automated production equipment, and high-quality manufacturing processes to support future high-volume deployment. This role is designed for an early-career engineer who enjoys working with real hardware systems. You will collaborate closely with experienced engineers to design production tooling, build automated assembly cells, and help transition new products from development into scalable manufacturing. The position offers the opportunity to gain hands-on experience building physical systems while contributing to the foundation of a rapidly expanding manufacturing operation.
About Us
We are a venture-backed technology company focused on advancing hardware systems that rely on precision optical components and complex electro-mechanical assemblies. Our team is working to bring cutting-edge technologies into scalable manufacturing environments that can support real-world deployment across multiple industries. By combining automation, advanced engineering, and modern factory infrastructure, we are building the foundation required to manufacture complex hardware at scale.
Job Duties
- Assist with the design and development of automated production cells, including fixtures, tooling, and assembly systems for precision electro-mechanical and optical components
- Create and modify 3D CAD models used for tooling, fixtures, mechanical interfaces, and production equipment
- Support new product introduction activities including process development, build planning, and early production builds
- Develop and maintain manufacturing documentation such as work instructions, assembly procedures, and validation protocols to support repeatable production
- Assemble, test, and troubleshoot prototype equipment and production hardware directly on the factory floor
- Evaluate production data, yield metrics, and metrology results to assist with root cause analysis and process improvement initiatives
- Work with cross-functional engineering teams to identify manufacturability improvements and feed design insights back into product development
- Assist with the development of inspection methods and production testing strategies including in-line metrology and final product validation
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field
- Strong engineering fundamentals such as mechanics of materials, controls, or heat transfer
- Proficiency using modern 3D CAD software such as NX, SolidWorks, Creo, or similar platforms
- Hands-on experience building, testing, or debugging mechanical or electro-mechanical systems through academic projects, internships, research labs, or co-op programs
- Strong analytical thinking and structured problem solving skills
- Comfortable working directly with tools, lab equipment, and physical hardware in a lab or manufacturing environment
- Willingness to support production schedules including extended hours or weekend work when required
Preferred Experience
- Internship, co-op, or early professional experience in robotics, automation, hardware development, or manufacturing environments
- Experience designing tooling, fixtures, or assembly aids for production or test environments
- Exposure to data analysis or scripting tools such as Python, MATLAB, or similar platforms for evaluating process performance
- Experience working with automated equipment, robotic systems, or precision assembly tools
- Familiarity with manufacturing process development tools such as PFMEA, statistical process control, or capability analysis
- Understanding of GD&T principles and tolerance analysis related to tooling and fixture design
- Exposure to production data systems, MES platforms, or traceability infrastructure used in manufacturing environments
- Familiarity with cleanroom or controlled manufacturing environments
Why Join Us
- Opportunity for growth in a rapidly expanding deep-tech manufacturing environment
- Ability to work directly with experienced engineers on complex hardware systems
- Hands-on exposure to advanced automation and precision manufacturing processes
- Collaborative startup environment where engineers can contribute across disciplines
- Flexible work environment
- Strong PTO policy
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits
- 401k retirement plan
- Equity participation opportunities
Compensation Details
Salary range: $100,000 – $160,000
