Automation Project Engineer 2

Collectors is the leading creator of innovative technology that provides value-added services for collectors worldwide. We grade, authenticate, vault, and sell millions of record-setting collectibles, all while modernizing and digitalizing the process to further our mission of helping collectors pursue their passions. We’re always on the lookout for talented people to join our growing team.

Our services span collectible trading cards, autographs, comic books, coins, video games, event tickets, and memorabilia. Our subsidiaries include PSA, PCGS, Beckett, SGC, and Card Ladder.

Since our founding in 1986, we have graded and authenticated millions of items. We employ more than 3000 people across our headquarters in Santa Ana, California and offices in New Jersey, Texas, Florida, Japan, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Canada, Mexico, Germany, the UK, and France.

As part of our interview process, we request that candidates have their cameras on during video interviews. This helps foster meaningful conversation and allows us to create an experience that closely resembles our standard working environment. Certain interview steps may take place by phone. For remote roles, and at our discretion, candidates may be asked to participate in an on-site interview as part of the final stages of the process.

We understand there may be occasional circumstances requiring accommodation and are happy to discuss them as needed. Your recruiter will be able to clarify expectations and answer any questions you have.

We’re looking for an Automation Project Engineer II to join our Engineering & Quality team. The Process Engineer will assist with equipment design, process development, validation, and implementation, efficiency improvements, and other manufacturing related activities.

You’ll report to the Process Engineering Manager and work onsite from our Santa Ana, CA headquarters with frequent travel, up to 50%. 

Onsite Requirement:

This role requires you to be onsite in the office 5 days per week.

What You’ll Do:

Process equipment design & development:

• Scope new automation equipment to replace current manual processes with more efficient, stable, and higher quality processes with cross-functional Continuous Improvement, Quality, and Engineering teams
• Troubleshoot solutions with PLCs, using Allen Bradley to improve and stabilize existing processes 
• Implement and recommend 5S and lean manufacturing concepts in processes and workspaces to increase efficiency, quality, and safety
• Develop and perform equipment validation at vendor sites 
• Prepare and deliver various engineering-related presentations, both internally and externally

Process sustaining and improvement:

• Perform root cause analysis when manufacturing issues arise, working with Quality, Engineering, and Manufacturing teams to determine robust resolutions
• Identify opportunities for product, equipment, and process improvements throughout Collectors’ facilities
• Perform testing on sample parts and machines and generate associated reports
• Perform other duties as assigned
• Support of maintenance and equipment repair actions, including validation of repairs and verification of calibrations
• Document process steps to ensure work standardization

Who You Are: 

To perform the job successfully, the Automation Project Engineer II should demonstrate the following:

• Hold a 4-year Mechanical, Controls, or similar Engineering degree
• 2-3 years experience in industrial automation and high-volume manufacturing
• Strong experience working with automation equipment vendors and suppliers
• Experience with machine vision systems, both in hardware and software
• Familiar with assembly tooling design and fixturing
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
• Advanced Google Suite or similar skills
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Curious and seeks to learn new processes, systems, and tools. Asks questions to ensure understanding
• Takes direction well
• Attention to detail
• Ability to work in a deadline sensitive environment

What Will Set You Apart: 

To excel in this position, the Process Engineer should demonstrate the following:

• Experience in plastics welding, specifically ultrasonics, and injection molding
• Familiar with industrial safety standards and best practices
• Experience with 5S, Lean, JIT, or Kaizen approaches
• Capable in managing individual tasks and deadlines independently
• Spanish or Japanese language skills are a plus

Physical Requirements:

• Sitting or standing for extended periods of time
• Extended periods of time in office and warehouse settings, both at Collector’s Universe and at vendors
• Hearing and vision within normal ranges is essential for normal conversations, email correspondences, to receive ordinary information, and to prepare, inspect, and receive submissions.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 20lbs
• Working around equipment and machinery
• Occasional exposure to machinery noise from forklifts, injection presses, sonic welders, and other machinery
• Occasional exposure to warehouse temperatures and humidity

Salary Range: 

The salary range for this position is $72,000 - $91,588. Actual compensation on this range varies based on a variety of non-discriminatory factors, including location, job level, experience, and skill set. 

Reasons To Join Us:

• Health Insurance: All full-time employees are eligible to enroll in Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Additional Benefits: Full-time employees are eligible for fertility, commuter, and educational assistance benefits
• 401(K) Matching Plan: We are proud to offer a competitive 401k matching plan to our employees to support their future financial goals
• Vacation: All salaried employees are eligible for flexible time-off
• Holiday Pay: All regular, full-time employees are eligible for ten company paid holidays
• Employee Discounts: Employees receive discounts on select grading services for approved submissions
• Flexible Hours: Many of our teams offer flexible schedules with varying shifts and will work with you to accommodate your needs
• Fun Working Environment: Our team members are invited to participate in celebrations, holiday events, and team building activities

Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. 

Collectors uses e-Verify to validate your ability to work legally in the United States.

We are aware that there are instances where individuals are receiving job offers that fraudulently allege to be from Collectors or one of our business units. This type of fraud can be carried out through false websites, through fake e-mails claiming to be from the company or through social media. We never ask for personal information such as your bank account, Social Security numbers or National IDs, nor do we send or request payments for the purchase of business-related equipment. If you suspect fraud, please reach out to [email protected].

We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, national origin, gender, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital or parental status, disability, veteran status, or other class protected by applicable law. We believe that a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills will better service the diverse community of collectors we support.

If you require an accommodation to apply or interview with us due to a disability or special need, please email [email protected].

U.S. residents: for disclosures relating to personal information we collect during the employment application and recruitment process, please see ourPrivacy Notice for U.S. Applicants.

For New York Residents: In connection with hiring, Collectors Universe, Inc. uses an automated employment decision tool (Brighthire) to assist in evaluating candidates. Collectors Universe, Inc. began using this tool in October 2026.  In accordance with NYC Local Law 144, a summary of the most recent independent bias audit of this tool is available from Brighthire . To request information about the type of data collected, its source, and our data retention policy, contact [email protected].