We are seeking an experienced Senior Staff Manufacturing Engineer to join our dynamic team. This role is pivotal in driving operational excellence as we scale into high-volume manufacturing environments by optimizing processes, enhancing equipment performance, and spearheading the design, development, and implementation of cutting-edge manufacturing equipment.
The ideal candidate will be a builder and bring deep expertise in continuous improvement methodologies and a proven track record of managing complex engineering projects from concept through implementation into production. As a key contributor to our manufacturing operations, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the seamless integration of new equipment and processes into the production line while maintaining the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and safety. Your ability to lead initiatives that enhance productivity and reduce costs will be instrumental in achieving our operational goals.
- Lead efforts to design, build, and integrate custom and off-the-shelf automation and production systems.
- Partner cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, and software teams to validate system performance and establish effective, reliable acceptance testing.
- Manage contract manufacturers' builds through final integration and test to consistently deliver conformant hardware to production.
- Own the performance, reliability, and lifecycle of manufacturing equipment (manual through fully automated), driving high uptime and operational excellence.
- Develop and implement preventive and predictive maintenance strategies to minimize downtime and extend equipment life.
- Lead manufacturing process development from EVT through DVT and into production ramp, ensuring scalable, high-quality builds.
- Translate engineering BOMs (eBOM) into manufacturing BOMs (mBOM) and define efficient, repeatable build processes.
- Identify and eliminate bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and quality risks using data-driven methods; drive improvements in throughput, yield, and cost.
- Perform root cause and corrective action (RCCA), time studies, and risk assessments to resolve production issues and prevent recurrence.
- Establish and maintain manufacturing standards, including SOPs, work instructions, and training materials, ensuring consistency and process discipline.
- Apply DFX principles to influence product and equipment design for manufacturability, scalability, and quality.
- Lead equipment deployment, including installation, validation, and commissioning, ensuring production readiness.
- Monitor process and equipment performance, using metrics and data to drive continuous improvement.
- Manage manufacturing projects end-to-end, aligning scope, schedule, cost, and quality across cross-functional teams.
- Mentor and support junior engineers, raising the bar for technical execution and manufacturing rigor.
- Travel between Emeryville and Santa Clara sites as needed.
- 8+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, with a focus on automation and equipment design.
- Proven experience designing, building, implementing, and sustaining automated systems in a production environment (robotics is a plus).
- Experience in semiconductor, solar, Biotech, EV, or similar high-tech industries, with an understanding of their processes.
- Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Onshape) for equipment design.
- Hands-on experience with building automation from assembly drawing to manufacturing and production.
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes, such as machining, assembly, welding, or material handling.
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies.
- Knowledge of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems (Arena software a plus).
- Experience with document control and release processes.
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize tasks effectively.
- A first-principles mindset — you question assumptions, reframe problems from the ground up, and approach challenges with a foundational understanding rather than relying solely on precedent.
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
- Knowledge of basic coding: RSLogix, Ignition, Python, or C/C++.
The compensation for this position also includes equity and benefits.
Atomic Machines is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and does not discriminate based on characteristics protected by applicable law. We are committed to an inclusive interview experience, including for individuals with disabilities. To request an accommodation, contact [email protected]. To help our recruiting team manage application volume and respond to candidates more efficiently, Atomic Machines may use AI-assisted tools.
Skills Required
- 8+ years of manufacturing engineering experience focused on automation and equipment design
- Experience designing, building, implementing, and sustaining automated systems in a production environment
- Experience in semiconductor, solar, biotech, EV, or similar high-tech industries
- Proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or Onshape
- Hands-on experience building automation from assembly drawing through manufacturing and production
- Knowledge of machining, assembly, welding, or material-handling processes
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies
- Knowledge of PLM systems; Arena software is a plus
- Experience with document control and release processes
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- Excellent communication and collaboration abilities
- Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks effectively
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
- Advanced degree
- Robotics experience
- Basic coding knowledge in RSLogix, Ignition, Python, or C/C++
What We Do
Atomic Machines is redefining humanity’s relationship with matter. We see a future where our tools will allow us to reorganize matter at the atomic level at will, where we will go from bits to atoms for any object or machine that can be designed in alignment with physical laws. We have begun our journey with the development of a robotic manufacturing platform capable of making an entirely new class of micro-electromechanical (MEMS) devices. We are well funded and have exceptionally strong product/market fit and a clear go-to-market path for the device we will make first with our platform. Our platform breaks traditional manufacturing paradigms and constraints, enabling inexpensive rapid prototyping as well as large scale manufacturing with highly compelling economics. Joining forces with us means becoming part of an incredibly talented, inventive and passionate multi-disciplinary team working on a massive world-changing mission. You will have the opportunity to help define the company from its early days. You’ll be challenged to learn and grow as a builder and a leader as the company itself grows rapidly. And you will receive significant equity compensation - you’ll truly be a company owner and benefit financially from our overall success.
