AUTOMATION ENGINEER - Research Center

Howmet Aerospace - Whitehall, MI

Full-time - Entry Level

Whitehall, MI

Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing

About the position

Howmet Aerospace is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company's primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, and titanium structural parts necessary for mission-critical performance and efficiency in aerospace and defense applications, as well as forged wheels for commercial transportation. Howmet Aerospace is transforming the next phase of more fuel-efficient, quieter aerospace engines and sustainable ground transportation. This position will be in our Howmet Research Center Manufacturing Technology Group and will support projects for all of Howmet. The Automation Engineer will be responsible for developing and programming new manufacturing technology. This role will also involve supporting current technology in use at various Howmet Plants. The engineer will collaborate with design teams, plant automation technicians, operators, and vendors to ensure successful implementation of new equipment into production. This includes establishing preventive maintenance schedules and identifying critical spare parts necessary for the operation of the equipment. Key responsibilities include the development, implementation, and programming of new advanced manufacturing equipment and automation systems. The engineer will provide support and development for automation technicians across multiple Howmet facilities and will work closely with engineering and manufacturing teams to improve existing processes. Additional responsibilities include coordinating robotic service visits, managing software control, and developing troubleshooting guides for plant technicians. This position is crucial for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of Howmet's manufacturing capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Development, implementation, and programming of new advanced manufacturing equipment and automation.
• Provide support and development of automation technicians across multiple Howmet facilities.
• Support engineering and manufacturing teams to improve existing processes.
• Coordinate robotic service visits.
• Responsible for Software Control.
• Developing troubleshooting guides for plant technicians.

Requirements

• BS Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Robotic, Industrial/Manufacturing, Aerospace, or Engineering Technology from an accredited institution.
• 25-50% Travel to other Howmet facilities.
• Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience working in an engineering or manufacturing environment.
• 1-3 years' experience working with controls/programming robotics.
• Experience in 6 axis articulating arm robotics.
• Proficiency at robot programming, I/O management, and troubleshooting robotic systems logic.
• Experience trouble-shooting robotic mechanical and electrical systems including pneumatics, sensors, tooling, measurement feedback systems, and basic design robustness.
• Proficient in off-line programming environments.
• Basic understanding of controls and servo systems.
• Basic understanding of tooling and fixture design.
• Experience with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC).
• Experience programming HMI software.
• Experience in reading mechanical and electrical prints.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong mechanical and/or electrical aptitude.
• Familiar with RIA Robotic Safety Standards.