What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Robotics & Automation Engineer - High-Volume Production position at Approach Venture?
Lead Robotics & Automation Engineer – Drive the Build-Out of America’s First Optical Interconnect Manufacturing Line!
Los Angeles, CA | Onsite
Opportunity Summary
A stealth, venture-backed startup at the cutting edge of photonics and advanced computing is building the first U.S.-based optical interconnect packaging facility to strengthen the domestic supply chain. The team is led by engineers with deep experience in aerospace and next-generation hardware development, and they are now seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer to play a defining role in scaling their core technology into high-volume manufacturing. This role presents a rare opportunity to take ownership of an end-to-end production line, from tool selection and system modeling to factory commissioning and optimization. You’ll be at the forefront of deploying advanced optical interconnect systems that will underpin the next evolution in computing performance. If you thrive on building factories that push the boundaries of what’s possible, this is your chance to make a direct and lasting impact.
About Us
We are a stealth-stage technology company focused on photonics, automation, and large-scale manufacturing of optical hardware. By pairing precision engineering with scalable production methods, our mission is to redefine how data moves through computing systems. Our founders come from some of the most innovative aerospace and hardware programs in the world, and together we’re building the highest-volume optical interconnect production capability in North America.
Job Duties
$130,000 - $210,000
Los Angeles, CA | Onsite
Opportunity Summary
A stealth, venture-backed startup at the cutting edge of photonics and advanced computing is building the first U.S.-based optical interconnect packaging facility to strengthen the domestic supply chain. The team is led by engineers with deep experience in aerospace and next-generation hardware development, and they are now seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer to play a defining role in scaling their core technology into high-volume manufacturing. This role presents a rare opportunity to take ownership of an end-to-end production line, from tool selection and system modeling to factory commissioning and optimization. You’ll be at the forefront of deploying advanced optical interconnect systems that will underpin the next evolution in computing performance. If you thrive on building factories that push the boundaries of what’s possible, this is your chance to make a direct and lasting impact.
About Us
We are a stealth-stage technology company focused on photonics, automation, and large-scale manufacturing of optical hardware. By pairing precision engineering with scalable production methods, our mission is to redefine how data moves through computing systems. Our founders come from some of the most innovative aerospace and hardware programs in the world, and together we’re building the highest-volume optical interconnect production capability in North America.
Job Duties
- Lead the architecture, modeling, and commissioning of a high-throughput transceiver production line, including tool layout, takt-time modeling, and ergonomic optimization.
- Define and procure capital equipment (die-bond, flip-chip, wire-bond, AOI, burn-in, and environmental test systems), managing vendor relationships end-to-end.
- Build digital twins of workstations for throughput and efficiency trade studies.
- Develop poka-yoke fixtures, automated test coverage, and end-of-line inspection systems.
- Establish and enforce design rules that accelerate build and assembly times.
- Lead root cause investigations for downtime and implement corrective measures.
- Own key performance metrics such as first-pass yield, uptime, maintenance scheduling, and cost efficiency targets.
- BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering (or related field).
- 5 years of experience overseeing high-volume production lines for electrical, optical, or precision hardware systems.
- Advanced CAD proficiency, including GD&T and tolerance stack analysis, with the ability to release full drawing packages.
- Background in production environments with PLCs, robotics integration, and material/process traceability.
- Ability to work extended hours or weekends when needed to meet mission-critical milestones.
- Hands-on ability to step in as the “supplier of last resort”—machining, wiring, soldering, or writing quick Python scripts when the line requires immediate fixes.
- Familiarity with scaling manufacturing for high-reliability, high-performance hardware products.
- Be part of a stealth team developing breakthrough technology with global impact.
- Opportunity for rapid career growth and leadership as the company scales.
- Flexible and collaborative work environment.
- Strong PTO policy with paid holidays and parental leave.
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
- Relocation assistance to Los Angeles.
$130,000 - $210,000
Salary : $130,000 - $210,000