What are the responsibilities and job description for the Industrial Automation Electrician position at American Axle & Mfg., Inc.?
Job Posting Title
Industrial Automation ElectricianJob Description Summary
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.Job Description:
- 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.
Required Skills and Education
- High school diploma or GED required; associate degree or technical certificate in industrial electricity, automation, controls, or mechatronics preferred.
- 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.
Preferred Skills and Certifications
- 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.
About Dauch:
Dauch Corporation is a premier Driveline and Metal Forming supplier serving the global automotive industry with a powertrain-agnostic product portfolio that supports electric, hybrid, and internal combustion vehicles. The company is headquartered in Detroit, MI, with operations that span 24 countries and more than 175 locations. Formed through the acquisition of Dowlais Group plc and its subsidiaries - GKN Automotive and GKN Powder Metallurgy, Dauch unites deep engineering roots with global manufacturing capabilities and an entrepreneurial spirit to move mobility forward. Visit www.dauch.com to learn more.
Dauch will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race, color, gender, religion, weight, height, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or other characteristic protected by law. Dauch will take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and that Associates are treated equally during employment, without regard to their age, race, color, gender, religion, weight, height, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or other characteristic protected by law. For the Disabled Job Seeker: We offer reasonable accommodations for qualified disabled individuals who are applicants for employment. To request assistance or accommodations, please e-mail TalentAcquisition@aam.com. Dauch is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.
AAM will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race, color, gender, religion, weight, height, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or other characteristic protected by law. AAM will take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and that Associates are treated equally during employment, without regard to their age, race, color, gender, religion, weight, height, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or other characteristic protected by law.