Welding & Assembly Automation Engineer at Munro Defense

Title: Welding & Assembly Automation Engineer

Location: Auburn Hills, MI (Onsite)

Company: Munro Defense

About Munro Defense

Munro Defense applies Lean Design, DFM/DFA, and advanced engineering benchmarking to help government and defense clients modernize complex, large-scale systems—especially those involving maritime platforms and integrated mechanical systems. Our focus is on delivering significant cost reductions and design efficiencies through digital engineering and lifecycle optimization.

Position Overview 

Seeking an engineer for a consulting engineering role that includes combines expertise in welding and assembly processes, robotics, and automation to design, implement, and optimize automated manufacturing systems for welding and assembly operations for a range of industries, including aerospace, tracked vehicles, automotive, and construction.  

The Welding and Assembly Automation Engineer will be a key driver of manufacturing innovation by leading the design, development, and implementation of automated systems for welding and assembly.  This role requires a strong background in mechanical engineering, controls systems, and various welding and assembly techniques.  The ideal candidate has experience with robotics, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and a commitment to continuous improvement in a production environment.

Key responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize automated manufacturing processes, including robotic welding cells and assembly lines.
• Develop and qualify welding procedures (WPS) and welding automation systems according to industry standards (e.g., AWS, ASME).
• Create and modify programs for robotics, PLCs, and human-machine interfaces (HMIs).
• System integration and testing though collaboration with controls, electrical, and mechanical engineers to ensure seamless integration of automated systems.
• Conduct rigorous testing, commissioning, and validation of new and modified automated systems.
• Provide technical support during equipment installation at customer or production sites.
• Provide technical expertise and hands-on support for automated equipment and welding processes troubleshooting and support.
• Investigate and perform root-cause analysis on welding and assembly issues to implement robust countermeasures.
• Address equipment downtime issues and support production teams to ensure continuity.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement, applying Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles to reduce cycle times and minimize defects.
• Research and evaluate new technologies, materials, and equipment to advance welding and assembly capabilities.
• Use performance monitoring and data analysis to recommend and implement process optimizations.
• Work with cross-functional teams, including design, quality, and production, to meet project requirements.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation, including process instructions, equipment specifications, and safety procedures.
• Deliver training to operators and technicians on the use and maintenance of new automated systems.

Qualifications and skills

• A bachelor's degree in Welding Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field or a related field is preferred.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience welding automation, robotics, or industrial automation.
• Professional certifications, such as a Certified Welding Engineer (CWEng) are highly preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of various welding processes (e.g., GMAW, GTAW, SMAW, FCAW, SAW, RSW, FSW, and laser hybrid), materials science, and metallurgy.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot welding issues and identify effective solutions.
• Experience with Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software and automation simulation tools as well as familiarity with the Microsoft Office suite of products.
• Experience with PLC programming (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens) and robotic systems (e.g., Fanuc, ABB, Yaskawa Motoman).
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, blueprints, and technical specifications.
• Familiarity with quality systems and industry codes, such as AWS, ASME, and ISO.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to work effectively with welders, engineers, and management.
• A meticulous and detail-oriented approach to ensure the highest level of quality and safety in all welding procedures.
• U.S. citizen eligible to receive a U.S. Government security clearance.

Work environment

• The role will principally be based in an office, but often will require a presence on a manufacturing floor, construction sites, or in a testing laboratory.
• Travel may be required, depending on the project and location of subcontractors or clients.

Benefits Overview:

• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid time off including vacation days and holidays
• Healthcare, dental, vision, and life insurance plans

Munro & Associates is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Munro & Associates does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law.