Manufacturing Automation EngineerTustin, California, United States EngineeringAbout the JobMedical Device Automation | Hands-On Builder RoleClearPath Medical – Tustin, CA On-site | No relocation | U.S. work authorization requiredCompensation: $85,000 – $115,000 DOE + benefits (We pay for real, hands-on automation talent; not buzzwords)About ClearPath MedicalClearPath Medical is an engineer-owned medical device contract manufacturer specializing in custom medical cable assemblies: designed, built, and shipped entirely in-house in Tustin, CA.We operate with short decision loops, minimal bureaucracy, and real ownership. Our automation team builds production-ready solutions that go directly into FDA-regulated manufacturing, not science projects that die on a PowerPoint slide.If you enjoy designing, building, wiring, programming, and improving machines yourself, you'll feel at home here.The Role (What You'll Actually Do)This is a hands-on manufacturing automation role, not a systems architect or desk-only engineering position.You'll design and deploy semi-automated and automated equipment for high-mix medical manufacturing, including cable prep, crimping, soldering, labeling, and dispensing.Typical work mix:~70% shop floor (build, debug, improve)~30% design, documentation, and programmingKey ResponsibilitiesDesign and build custom automation tooling, fixtures, and work cellsImprove existing manual or semi-automated processes for safety, repeatability, and throughputProgram and debug PLCs, robots, and vision systems used in productionIntegrate sensors, pneumatics, motion components, and safety systemsSupport FAT/SAT, production launch, and continuous improvementCreate clear SOPs and basic documentation that operators can actually followPartner with Manufacturing, Quality, and Engineering teams to meet FDA and ISO requirementsWhat We're Looking For (Realistic & Local)Required3–7+ years in manufacturing automation, process engineering, or equipment engineeringHands-on experience building or modifying automation used in productionStrong mechanical aptitude (fixtures, tooling, mechanisms)Experience with at least one of the following:PLCs or industrial controlsCollaborative or industrial robotsVision systemsAutomated crimping, soldering, labeling, or dispensingCAD experience (SolidWorks or similar)Comfortable working on the shop floor with technicians and operatorsAble to work on-site in Tustin, CANice to Have (Not Deal-Breakers)Medical device, aerospace, or electronics manufacturing experienceLean or continuous improvement exposure (SMED, OEE, poka-yoke)Light machining, prototyping, or 3D printing experienceExperience validating or supporting FDA-regulated processesImportant: You do not need to be an expert in every automation technology listed.
We value builders who learn quickly more than those who focus on checklist perfection.Why Engineers Choose ClearPathYou own projects end-to-end: design, build, productionDecisions happen fast; prototypes happen fasterYour work ships into real, life-critical medical devicesNo layers of management between you and the impactJeans, safety glasses, and machines, not meetings all dayBenefitsCompetitive salary based on experienceMedical, dental, and vision insurancePaid time offStable, growing medical manufacturing environmentLong-term career growth in automation leadership