Industrial Automation Electrician

AAM - American Axle & Manufacturing•Three Rivers, MI

23h•$42 - $48•Onsite

About The Position

The Industrial Automation Electrician is a skilled journeyman-level electrician specializing in the installation, troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of electrical and control systems for CNC machine tools, industrial robots, automated production lines, and related equipment. This role focuses on electrical systems up to 480V, but not limited to PLCs, servo drives, sensors, VFDs, and integration of automation systems to ensure maximum equipment uptime, precision, and safety in a high-volume manufacturing environment. The position bridges traditional electrical work with advanced systems and automation, enabling proactive diagnostics and repairs on complex CNC and robotic systems.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required
Valid 4 year journeyman card or minimum of 5 years verifiable experience - electrician license or equivalent certification (state license, IEC, or IBEW apprenticeship completion).
3+years of industrial electrical experience, with at least 2+ years focused on CNC machines, robotics, PLC controls, or automated manufacturing equipment.
Strong knowledge of electrical theory, three-phase power distribution, motor controls, and troubleshooting techniques.
Hands-on experience with PLC programming/troubleshooting (ladder logic preferred), servo systems, VFDs, and industrial networks.
CNC controls knowledge (Fanuc, Siemens, Okuma), robot controllers, and safety standards (NFPA 79, ANSI/RIA R15.06 for robotics).
Proficiency in using diagnostic tools: multimeters, oscilloscopes, megger testers, PLC software (RSLogix/Studio 5000, TIA Portal), and robot teach pendants.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and manuals; basic understanding of G-code/M-code for CNC diagnostics a plus.
Physically able to lift 50+ lbs, work in awkward positions, climb ladders, and enter confined spaces.
Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently or in teams under time pressure.
Must pass pre-employment drug screen, background check, and any required physical or skills assessments.
Available to work overtime and flexible schedule as required within union facility agreement.
Available to work any shift as required.

Nice To Haves

associate degree or technical certificate in industrial electricity, automation, controls, or mechatronics preferred.
Experience with specific platforms: Allen-Bradley ControlLogix/CompactLogix, Fanuc CNC/Robotics, Siemens S7, or similar.
Knowledge of predictive maintenance tools (vibration analysis, thermography) and basic networking/IT for automation systems.

Responsibilities

Troubleshoot and diagnose electrical and control issues on CNC machines (lathes, mills, grinders), industrial robots (Fanuc), and automated systems using multimeters, oscilloscopes, PLC software, and diagnostic tools.
Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on electrical components including servo motors, encoders, VFDs, servo amplifiers, proximity sensors, limit switches, safety interlocks, light curtains, and emergency stops.
Read, interpret, and modify electrical schematics, ladder logic diagrams, and control panel layouts to support repairs, retrofits, and upgrades.
Troubleshoot PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens), HMI interfaces, and basic robot teach pendant operations; assist with parameter adjustments and fault code analysis.
Install, wire, and test control panels, field devices, communication networks (Ethernet/IP, Profibus, IO-Link), and cabling for new equipment or modifications.
Support integration of robotics and automation with CNC systems, including end-of-arm tooling, conveyors, vision systems, and safety-rated controls.
Collaborate with multi-craft technicians, machine repair, and engineering teams during equipment installations, startups, and root-cause analysis of downtime events.
Perform lockout/tagout, arc flash safety protocols, and risk assessments for electrical work on live or powered equipment.
Maintain accurate records of repairs, parts usage, and system changes in the CMMS; generate reports on recurring issues to drive continuous improvement.