Automation Engineer

About the role

Helicon is seeking an Automation Engineer to design and implement cutting‑edge manufacturing automation in its Los Angeles facility. You will work on robotics, effectors, fixturing, PLCs, conveyors and vision systems to accelerate the production of advanced composite materials.

Key responsibilities

• Design, build and optimize automated manufacturing lines, including robotics integration and industrial automation hardware.
• Identify automation opportunities to improve throughput, quality and cost efficiency.
• Own equipment failures, conduct root‑cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with software teams to stream live data to Argos, Helicon’s supply‑chain and pricing operating system.
• Maintain compliance with industrial protocols and safety standards.

Required profile

• Proven experience designing, building, optimizing and troubleshooting automated production lines.
• Hands‑on expertise with robotics integration and industrial automation systems.
• Ability to make decisive decisions without perfect data.
• Eligibility to meet ITAR requirements (U.S. citizen, permanent resident, etc.).

Required skills

• Robotics integration
• Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
• Vision systems
• Conveyor and effector design
• Industrial protocols (e.g., EtherNet/IP, Modbus)
• Safety standards compliance

What we offer

• Fast‑paced environment with high agency and urgency.
• No bureaucracy, meals covered and productivity‑enhancing perks.
• Opportunity to work on mass‑scale production of next‑generation composite materials.