Automation Engineering Specialist - Plants 1/3

This Automation Engineering Specialist position will be located in Whitehall, MI.  This position is instrumental in identifying new manufacturing technology and sustaining current technology in use at the operation.  The Automation Engineer is responsible for automating manual processes, working with operators, vendors, and design teams. This position will follow through the build phase and implementation of equipment into production and establishing PMs to support.  This position will also be responsible for redesign/replacement of failing robotic components to increase OEE.

Job Roles 

• Systems thinker--sees the business and its operation holistically; understands actions and reactions; considers multiple pathways of potential effect before decisions; thinks strategically about interventions with an eye toward scale
• Optimizer--constantly challenging the organization to work smarter; supports others to ensure they have what they need to do their work successfully
• Anticipation--looks ahead to minimize potential issues and maximize advantages; prepares others for what comes next
• Operational accelerator--drives continuous improvement; understands ramifications of automation and other advances; advocates for safety, ergonomics and scalable solutions
• Organization and structure--works within existing structures while striving to improve and standardize them; provides accurate information; galvanizes others toward common goals
• Influence--leverages knowledge, relationship, data and perspective to persuade, educate and navigate; gains buy in and adoption of ideas and practices at scale; interacts with a variety of stakeholders
• Data informed--focused on things that drive quantifiable business outcomes; evaluates based on quantitative feedback; knows and explains the “why” behind actions
• Prioritized reaction--handles the unexpected without losing sight of important objectives; reacts where greatest leverage points exist
• Relationship--connects individually and with teams across shifts and practices; builds rapport and commonality; creates a “win together” ethic; serves as liaison between shop floor and engineering; keeps the pulse of the floor; helps people feel heard

Responsibilities

• Responsible for automating manual processes, working with operators, vendors, and design teams.
• Follow through the build phase and implementation of equipment into production and establishing PM’s to support.
• Responsible for redesign / replacement of failing robotic components to increase Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE)
• Development and implementation of new advanced manufacturing equipment and automation.
• Support justification of capital funding requisitions.
• Responsible for project management and performance metrics.
• Provide support and development of automation technicians.
• Support engineering and manufacturing teams to improve existing processes.
• Coordinate all robotic service visits.
• Responsible for Software Control on all robot programming.
• Developing technician troubleshoot guides.

Key responsibilities include:

• Programming, troubleshooting, and developing preventative maintenance programs.
• Interact with and provide guidance for maintenance personnel to repair equipment.
• Responsible for Software Control on all robot programming.
• New equipment proposals, design, RFQ’s, training and documentation.
• Conduct general robot safety training.
• Machine repair parts for robot cells, modifications, and tooling purchases.
• Coordinate robot training thru Motoman and ABB for all technicians at Plant 4 that interact with robots.
• Coordinate all Motoman service visits, repairs, and robot arm rebuilds.
• Develop technician troubleshoot guides.

Basic Qualifications

• BS Degree in the following disciplines: Mechanical, Electrical, Robotic, Industrial/Manufacturing or Aerospace Engineering, Engineering Technology or Computer Science/Software Engineering from an accredited institution OR 7 years of related experience
• Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States.  Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.  Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Preferred Qualifications

• 3+ years’ experience working with controls/programming robotics.
• Experience with Motoman robotics or other programming of robots
• Experience working in an engineering or manufacturing environment.
• Experience in 6 axis articulating arm robotics.
• Proven proficiency at robot programming, I/O management, and troubleshooting robotic systems logic.
• Experience trouble-shooting mechanical systems including pneumatics, tooling issues, measurement feedback systems, and basic design robustness.
• Programming in Industrial ladder logic.
• Experience working with Wonderware HMI software.
• Experience using industrial controllers.
• Basic understanding of capabilities for controls and servo systems.
• Demonstrated methodical aptitude for troubleshooting equipment and related issues.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel efficiency and lightweighting, contributing to our customers’ success and making a positive impact on the world. To learn more about the way Howmet Aerospace Inc. is advancing the sustainability of our customers, markets, and communities where we operate, review the 2025 Environmental Social and Governance report at www.howmet.com/esg-report. Follow: LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

If you need assistance to complete your application due to a disability, please email [email protected]