Manufacturing Test Engineer

RIX Industries is a technology-focused company specializing in the design, development and manufacturing of gas generation systems, precision compressor solutions, and cryogenic cooling technologies for critical applications in Marine, Aerospace, Land, Energy, Industrial, Medical, and Critical Infrastructure markets. Founded in 1878, the company is headquartered in Benicia, CA, and operates additional facilities in Sparks, NV.

Position Summary

The Manufacturing Controls Engineer designs, develops, and supports manufacturing test stands and production test systems used in manufacturing environments. This role focuses on test system development, controls integration, data acquisition, and ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient operation of production equipment. The position supports both production and engineering through system troubleshooting, testing, documentation, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Own, maintain, troubleshoot, and continuously improve manufacturing test stands and production test systems to support safe, reliable, and efficient operations.
• Develop, maintain, and support test software and automation applications, including LabVIEW-based systems for test operations and data collection.
• Support production uptime by responding to test system issues, performing root cause analysis, and implementing corrective actions.
• Lead the validation, integration, commissioning, and continuous improvement of new or modified test systems and equipment to improve reliability, repeatability, and throughput.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate instrumentation, controls, and mechanical systems within manufacturing test environments.
• Create and maintain technical documentation, work instructions, test procedures, and revision-controlled records.
• Perform electrical and mechanical troubleshooting of test systems, including sensors, instrumentation, analog signals, valves, pumps, and related field devices.
• Provide technical support to Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Purchasing, and Field Service related to system performance, troubleshooting, and testing activities.
• Develop, maintain, and version control automation and test software using source control tools, preferably Git.
• Develop and maintain electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and panel layouts using AutoCAD Electrical.
• Support systems utilizing single- and three-phase power up to 480 VAC.
• Support basic industrial network communications, including TCP/IP over Ethernet, for manufacturing and test systems.
• Ensure test systems comply with applicable electrical codes, industry standards, and safety regulations, including NFPA 70 and NFPA 79.
• Assist with the design, integration, and support of electrical control systems and test equipment for manufacturing and production testing applications.
• Assist with instrument selection, integration, and implementation for manufacturing and test applications.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field; experience with control systems design and implementation.
• 3 Years of hands on experience in manufacturing automation, industrial controls, or production test environments. 
• Demonstrated experience programming and troubleshooting PLCs and HMIs in an industrial or manufacturing setting. 
• Proven experience developing and maintaining LabView applications for automated test systems and data collection. 
• Hands on experience designing, building, and troubleshooting electrical control panels, including systems up to 480 VAC (single and three phase).
• Working knowledge of NFPA 70 (NEC) and NFPA 79 electrical safety standards.
• Proficiency in creating and maintaining electrical schematics using AutoCAD Electrical. 
• Experience using version control tools for automation and test software. 
• Strong troubleshooting skills across sensors, instrumentation, analog, digital signals, field devices, and electro-mechanical systems. 
• Strong ability to support manufacturing production environments and other internal and external departments as needed. 
• Working knowledge of industrial networking, including TCP/IP over Ethernet. 
• Knowledge of compressed and flammable gas safety. 
• Experience integrating instrumentation and mechanical components (sensor, pumps, valves, etc.) into automated systems. 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including technical documentation.
• Ability to travel 15-20% of the time based on business need. 
• Citizenship:  U.S. Citizen or qualified U.S. Person in accordance with ALU 22CFR 120.15. May require the ability to obtain DOD security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, controls engineering, or related discipline.
• 6 years experience developing and deploying LabView applications and test hardware;
• Experience with advanced automation technologies and industrial networking such as; SCADA systems, motion control, and robotics or advanced sequencing systems. 
• Proficiency with CAD and simulation tools for controls or system design beyond basic schematic drafting. 
• Experience working in regulated or high-reliability industries such as Aerospace, Defense, Medical, or Energy. 

Physical Requirements

1. This position is regularly exposed to the following conditions:

• Manufacturing, warehouse and office environment.
• While working near moving equipment, mechanical parts and lift trucks; must have the ability to follow safe operating procedures.
• May be exposed to loud noise, fumes and/or toxic chemicals.

2. Must have the following physical abilities:

• Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, bend, stretch, reach, and lift.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods at a desk or table as well as machine tools or printers.

Compensation

$100,000 + DOE

Equal Opportunity

RIX Industries is committed to a continuing program of equal employment opportunity. All persons have equal employment opportunities with RIX Industries, regardless of their sex, race, color, age, religion, creed, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition (cancer or genetic characteristics), marital status, gender (including gender identity or gender expression), familial status, military or veteran status, genetic information, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related conditions (or any other group or category within the framework of the applicable discrimination laws and regulations).