Job Description
Job Description
Build 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 track
Controls
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 programmingElectrical schematics and installationIndustrial robot programmingTroubleshooting industrial automation equipmentProgramming machine vision systemsElectrical / electronic systemsPneumatics troubleshootingEquipment and platforms
Robotic weldersPLCs (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.