Department: Automation
Reports To: Finishing Leadership
Position Summary
The Automation Technician is responsible for the design, implementation, optimization, troubleshooting, and maintenance of automated manufacturing systems throughout the facility. This role serves as a technical resource for robotics, vision inspection systems, ultrasonic testing (UT) systems, CNC machining centers, and related automation technologies.
This position requires a highly self-motivated individual capable of understanding complex manufacturing systems and identifying opportunities to improve safety, quality, productivity, and process reliability. The successful candidate will combine hands-on technical skills with strong analytical thinking to develop and implement solutions that reduce employee effort, eliminate waste, improve product quality, and enhance workplace safety.
The Automation & Systems Technician is expected to work independently, manage projects from concept through implementation, and drive continuous improvement initiatives throughout the operation.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Automation Systems
- Design, program, install, troubleshoot, and maintain industrial robotic systems.
- Develop and optimize robotic cell layouts, tooling, end-of-arm tooling (EOAT), and automation equipment.
- Create, modify, backup, and maintain robot programs and system documentation.
- Support integration of robots with PLCs, HMIs, vision systems, conveyors, sensors, and other manufacturing equipment.
- Investigate automation-related downtime and implement permanent corrective actions.
Vision Systems
- Design, program, implement, and maintain machine vision inspection systems.
- Develop vision applications for dimensional verification, defect detection, product identification, and process control.
- Analyze inspection performance and improve system reliability and accuracy.
- Troubleshoot camera hardware, lighting systems, optics, communication networks, and software applications.
Ultrasonic Testing (UT) Systems
- Support the development, implementation, and maintenance of UT inspection systems.
- Optimize inspection parameters and system performance to improve detection capability and reduce false rejects.
- Troubleshoot UT equipment, sensors, data acquisition systems, and software.
- Assist in developing standardized inspection methods and process documentation.
CNC Machining Support
- Support CNC machining operations through program modifications, tooling improvements, and process optimization.
- Troubleshoot machining issues and assist with continuous improvement initiatives within machining cells.
- Maintain CNC program backups and documentation.
- Evaluate cutting tools, fixturing, and machining strategies to improve productivity and quality.
System Design and Continuous Improvement
- Analyze manufacturing processes to identify opportunities for automation, error-proofing, labor reduction, quality improvement, and safety enhancement.
- Design and implement solutions that simplify work processes and increase overall operational effectiveness.
- Lead and participate in continuous improvement projects.
- Collect and analyze process data to support decision-making and identify root causes of recurring issues.
- Develop business cases and project plans for automation and improvement initiatives.
- Research emerging technologies and evaluate their potential application within the facility.
Troubleshooting and Problem Solving
- Diagnose and resolve complex equipment, process, quality, and system issues.
- Utilize structured problem-solving methods including root cause analysis and corrective action processes.
- Identify systemic issues rather than treating symptoms.
- Develop sustainable solutions that prevent issue recurrence.
- Serve as a technical resource for operations, maintenance, quality, and engineering teams.
Documentation and Training
- Create and maintain technical documentation, operating procedures, and maintenance standards.
- Train operators, maintenance personnel, and other employees on automated systems and best practices.
- Maintain organized backups for all automation, robot, vision, and CNC programs.
- Support compliance with company quality and safety standards.
Safety
- Promote a culture of safety through equipment design, risk reduction, and safe work practices.
- Identify and implement engineering controls that reduce employee exposure to risk.
- Participate in safety investigations and corrective action efforts as required.
- Follow all company safety requirements and utilize required PPE.
Qualifications Required
- Strong mechanical, electrical, or automation troubleshooting skills.
- Demonstrated ability to independently diagnose and solve complex technical problems.
- Strong analytical and critical-thinking abilities.
- Excellent organizational and project management skills.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Preferred
- Experience with industrial robotics, automated equipment, or manufacturing systems.
- Experience programming or troubleshooting industrial robots (Fanuc, ABB, Yaskawa).
- Experience with machine vision systems.
- Experience with ultrasonic testing systems or automated quality inspection equipment.
- Experience with CNC machining centers and CNC programming.
- Experience with PLC programming and industrial controls.
- Experience leading process improvement or automation projects.
Key Success Factors
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
- High cognitive ability and strong technical reasoning.
- Natural curiosity and a desire to understand how complex systems interact.
- The ability to identify opportunities that others may overlook.
- Self-direction and ownership of projects and outcomes.
- Persistence in solving difficult technical challenges.
- A continuous improvement mindset.
- Sound judgment and decision-making skills.
- A strong commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and climb as required throughout the workday.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
- Ability to work around industrial equipment and manufacturing processes.
- Ability to wear required PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and safety footwear.
Why Join Us
- Comprehensive benefits package – Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, and more
- Security for your future – 401(K) match to help you build long-term financial stability
- Stay healthy and supported – Wellness programs and access to a Worksite Wellness Center
- Work-life balance that matters – Paid vacation and holidays so you can recharge
- Extra perks to help you succeed – Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and PPE allowances
Grede is proud to support transitioning service members and current military veterans with career opportunities that are a match for their skills gained while serving our country. Military veterans are encouraged to apply.
As a Fair Chance employer, Grede is committed to considering individuals who are rebuilding after past challenges. We believe full-time employment can be a powerful step toward long-term success.
To learn more about Grede, please visit our website at www.grede.com.
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
