Advanced Controls and Robotics Technician - Welding Cells
6 days ago
Grand Rapids
Job DescriptionBuild what’s next in automated welding Step into a senior hands-on role where production uptime, quality welds, and operator safety all depend on your expertise. You’ll support, program, and troubleshoot complex robotic welding systems while growing others through mentorship. Core impact • Lead setup, operation, and troubleshooting of automated welding cells across multiple applications., • Coach Automation Technician I & II and Weld Technicians; model best practices and safe work habits., • Diagnose electrical/mechanical issues using prints and schematics; repair circuits and components (harnesses, drives, relays, boards, motors, breakers, transformers)., • Perform intermediate robot programming and optimization: offline edits (RoboCAD/RobotStudio), TCP checks, I/O simulation, move and zone adjustments., • Resolve weld issues across drawn arc, GMAW, resistance, projection, and pneumatic systems., • Operate precision instrumentation: hand measuring tools, amp and weld current meters, digital force gauges, micro‑ohm meters., • Execute fixture refinements and minor shim moves per manufacturing details with guidance from a Weld Maintenance Mechanic III or Manufacturing Engineer; apply proper shimming techniques., • Install, configure, and troubleshoot poka‑yoke systems.Specialize and lead in one trackControls, • Intermediate PLC programming (add sensors, modify sequences); ladder logic troubleshooting., • Program/troubleshoot PanelView (HMI); set up I/O blocks; search, cross‑reference, and edit programs; load programs., • Replace/commission control components; set IP addresses and system names., • Troubleshoot valve stacks and associated pneumatics/electrics.Robotics, • Intermediate robot programming methods, including offline routine creation., • Load IDs, tune guns, and add system components (valves, I/O blocks)., • Set up and troubleshoot tool changers and external axes., • Create/verify TCP (ABB Bullseye a plus), build offsets, and replace motors/resolvers/serial pulse coders.Welding, • Intermediate weld troubleshooting and specialty equipment PM., • Rebuild/reload schedules and implement Weld Engineer‑directed changes (RAFT, Emhart DA, MIG)., • Perform cap/electrode studies, weld validation, and spot gun squeeze force calibration., • Troubleshoot drawn arc stud welding (with basic programming) and projection weld setups., • Apply working knowledge of the Miyachi Weld Tester.How you work, • Read job element sheets; interpret mechanical/electrical prints with accuracy., • Use gauges and hand tools correctly; apply multimeters, amp/weld current meters, force gauges, and micro‑ohm meters., • Follow Challenge’s safety policies; drive root‑cause problem solving., • Show integrity, reliability, and a team‑first approach while flexing to support plant flow., • Prioritize effectively, communicate clearly, and hand off thoroughly to the next shift., • Embrace change and continuous improvement; resolve conflicts objectively and constructively.Qualifications, • High school diploma or equivalent., • Industrial truck and aerial platform licenses., • Excellent verbal communication and PC skills (Word, Excel, Outlook)., • Successful completion of Automation Technician II written and performance tests (internal and external candidates)., • Knowledge of PLC systems with intermediate programming capability., • Industrial Maintenance/Machine Repair/Electrician Journeyman certification, or 2‑year technical degree, or equivalent experience., • Minimum 3 years of experience as a Weld Technician, Automation Technician, or equivalent., • Preferred: Mechatronics certificate or journeyperson card; Associate’s in mechatronics/controls/maintenance technology; 6+ years combined education/experience in automation; strong electrical and mechanical background in industrial/automated systems.Technical strengths, • PLC troubleshooting and programming, • Electrical schematics and installation, • Industrial robot programming, • Troubleshooting industrial automation equipment, • Programming machine vision systems, • Electrical/electronic systems, • Pneumatics troubleshootingEquipment and platforms, • Robotic welders, • PLCs (Fanuc), • Industrial robots (Fanuc, ABB)Physical and schedule requirements, • Lift/move up to 60 lbs., • Work up to 12 hours per day, including Saturday and Sunday., • Consistent attendance; ensure coverage when absent., • Read, understand, and follow written and verbal instructions.