Factory Associate Jobs in Howell, MI (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: System Build Technician

Department: Methods Automation – Manufacturing/Automation Integration

Methods Machine Tools was established in 1958 with three employees and a handful of refurbished machines. Since then, the company has become one of the largest privately owned machine tool importers in North America.

Position Summary: 

The System Build Technician is responsible for the assembly, installation, testing, and preparation of robotic automation systems used in CNC machine tending applications. This role works closely with Mechanical Engineers, Controls Engineers, Robot Programmers, and Project Managers to build complete robotic work cells that meet customer specifications, quality standards, and production schedules.

The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, experienced with industrial equipment assembly, and capable of interpreting engineering drawings and electrical schematics. This individual will play a critical role in ensuring robotic systems are built correctly, tested thoroughly, and prepared for successful customer deployment.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Mechanical Assembly

• Assemble robotic automation systems, machine tending cells, and related manufacturing equipment.
• Install robot pedestals, machine interfaces, safety guarding, conveyors, and material handling equipment.
• Assemble and install end-of-arm tooling (EOAT), grippers, workholding devices, and custom automation components.
• Perform equipment alignment, leveling, and mechanical adjustments.
• Verify assemblies meet engineering drawings and project specifications.

Electrical and Pneumatic Assembly

• Install electrical components including control panels, sensors, safety devices, motors, and peripheral equipment.
• Route and secure cables, conduit, pneumatic tubing, and communication wiring.
• Install and connect pneumatic systems, valves, regulators, and air preparation equipment.
• Assist controls engineers with system wiring verification and startup activities.
• Perform basic electrical troubleshooting and continuity checks.

System Integration Support

• Support robot programmers and controls engineers during system commissioning.
• Assist with machine interface testing and validation.
• Verify operation of sensors, actuators, safety circuits, and automation components.
• Help troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic issues identified during testing.
• Participate in debugging and optimization efforts prior to shipment.

Quality and Testing

• Perform mechanical inspections throughout the build process.
• Verify all hardware is installed according to engineering standards and customer requirements.
• Conduct pre-shipment quality checks and system audits.
• Document assembly completion and test results.
• Ensure equipment meets internal quality standards before Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT).

Documentation

• Interpret and follow: 
  • Mechanical assembly drawings
  • Pneumatic schematics
  • Electrical schematics
  • Bills of materials (BOMs)
  • Work instructions
• Record assembly deviations and communicate issues to engineering teams.
• Maintain accurate project documentation and build records.

Installation and Field Support

• Support equipment installation at customer facilities when required.
• Assist with startup and commissioning activities.
• Perform field modifications and adjustments to meet customer requirements.
• Support service and warranty projects as needed.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve assembly efficiency and product quality.
• Assist in the development of standardized assembly procedures.
• Participate in Lean Manufacturing and 5S initiatives.
• Promote safe work practices and continuous improvement throughout the organization.

Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Associate degree or technical certification in: 
  • Mechatronics
  • Industrial Maintenance
  • Robotics Technology
  • Mechanical Technology
  • Automation Technology
  • Manufacturing Technology
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Experience

• 2+ years of experience in industrial equipment assembly, machine building, automation integration, or manufacturing environments preferred.
• Experience with robotic automation systems or CNC machine tending equipment is highly desirable.
• Experience reading engineering drawings and assembly documentation.
• Familiarity with manufacturing and industrial safety standards.

Required Skills and Abilities

Mechanical Skills

• Strong mechanical assembly aptitude.
• Experience using precision measuring tools.
• Ability to install bearings, linear rails, conveyor systems, tooling, and machine components.
• Knowledge of mechanical fasteners and assembly best practices.

Electrical Skills

• Basic understanding of industrial electrical systems.
• Ability to read electrical schematics.
• Experience terminating cables and wiring industrial equipment preferred.
• Knowledge of sensors, switches, relays, and industrial controls.

Pneumatic and Hydraulic Systems

• Ability to assemble and troubleshoot pneumatic systems.
• Familiarity with pneumatic valves, cylinders, regulators, and fittings.
• Hydraulic experience is a plus.

Technical Skills

• Ability to read and interpret: 
  • Mechanical drawings
  • CAD layouts
  • Electrical schematics
  • Pneumatic diagrams
  • Bills of materials
• Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office applications.

Key Competencies

• Strong attention to detail.
• Excellent mechanical troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities.
• Commitment to quality workmanship.
• Positive attitude and customer-focused mindset.
• Ability to adapt to changing project priorities.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and climb throughout the workday.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Ability to use hand tools, power tools, and measuring instruments safely.
• Ability to work around industrial machinery and manufacturing equipment.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Travel Requirements

• Travel up to 20% for customer installations and support activities.
• Occasional overnight travel may be required.

Preferred Certifications

• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification
• Forklift Certification
• Lift Equipment Certification
• Mechatronics Certification
• Robotics Technician Certification
• Electrical Safety Training
• Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Training

Success Measures

A successful System Build Technician will:

• Consistently build automation systems according to engineering specifications.
• Meet project schedules and production deadlines.
• Achieve high first-pass quality and low rework rates.
• Support successful Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and customer installations.
• Maintain a safe and organized work environment.
• Contribute to delivering reliable robotic machine tending systems that improve customer productivity, quality, and operational efficiency.

Additional Information

This job description is designed to provide an overview of basic skills, experiences and education required to perform the job and is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee to perform the essential functions of the job. In instances where educational degrees are required, the company will take into consideration factors such as additional experience, training, or certifications in lieu of specific educational requirements.

Methods Machine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.