About Grafton Sciences
We’re building AI systems with general physical ability — the capacity to experiment, engineer, or manufacture anything. We believe achieving this is a key step towards building superintelligence. With deep technical roots and real-world progress at scale (e.g., a $42M NIH project), we’re pushing the frontier of physical AI. Joining us means inventing from first principles, owning real systems end-to-end, and helping build a capability the world has never had before.
About the Role
We’re seeking a Senior Automation Engineer to design and implement the automated equipment, sequencing logic, safety systems, and industrial controls that enable autonomous operation of complex hardware. You’ll build PLC/SCADA logic, integrate sensors and actuators, implement process interlocks, and drive the commissioning of high-throughput automated cells. This role spans hands-on equipment bring-up, system integration, and close collaboration with robotics, controls, firmware, and mechanical teams.
Responsibilities
• Design and implement PLC, machine control, and automation logic for robotic and manufacturing equipment.
• Integrate sensors, actuators, industrial networks, and safety systems into reliable automated workflows.
• Commission automated equipment, including sequencing, calibration routines, fault handling, and HMI/SCADA interfaces.
• Work cross-functionally with robotics, controls, firmware, and mechanical teams to unify end-to-end automated cells.
Qualifications
• Strong experience building automation systems using PLCs, industrial controllers, safety hardware, and machine control logic.
• Demonstrated ability to bring up automated equipment, diagnose faults, and implement robust I/O sequences and interlocks.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (EtherCAT, Modbus, Profinet, etc.) and sensor/actuator integration.
• Comfortable working hands-on with equipment, commissioning, and system integration in fast-paced engineering environments.
Above all, we look for candidates who can demonstrate world-class excellence.
Compensation
We offer competitive salary, meaningful equity, and benefits.
Top Skills
Similar Jobs
What you need to know about the Los Angeles Tech Scene
Key Facts About Los Angeles Tech
- Number of Tech Workers: 375,800; 5.5% of overall workforce (2024 CompTIA survey)
- Major Tech Employers: Snap, Netflix, SpaceX, Disney, Google
- Key Industries: Artificial intelligence, adtech, media, software, game development
- Funding Landscape: $11.6 billion in venture capital funding in 2024 (Pitchbook)
- Notable Investors: Strong Ventures, Fifth Wall, Upfront Ventures, Mucker Capital, Kittyhawk Ventures
- Research Centers and Universities: California Institute of Technology, UCLA, University of Southern California, UC Irvine, Pepperdine, California Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, Center for Quantum Science and Engineering



