Senior Technical Specialist - Robotics & PLC Automation

About Us:At Challenge Manufacturing, we are dedicated to achieving operational excellence through the empowerment of our employee-owners. As a premier tier 1 supplier of complex metal assemblies in the global automotive sector, we are committed to driving innovative solutions that shape the future of mobility. We value the unique perspectives each individual…

Senior Controls EngineerPosition Overview: As a Senior Controls Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in the design, programming, commissioning, debugging, and deployment of advanced automation systems. This position not only allows you to work independently on multi-million-dollar projects but also gives you the opportunity to informally mentor junior engineers. You will take charge of electrical design, PLC/HMI/robot code, motion control solutions, and ensure safety compliance throughout the entire project lifecycle. This role reports directly to the Director of Engineering.Key Responsibilities:Design and develop PLC (ladder/structured text), HMI, simulations, and robot programs that achieve cycle-time, quality, and safety objectives.Manage multiple projects across various phases (design, build, debug, runoff) while ensuring clarity and responsiveness in your tasks.Lead specific project segments from conception to completion, maintaining task lists, adhering to budgets, and supporting on-site startup activities.Implement departmental coding/electrical standards and suggest incremental improvements for technical review.Guide Level 1-3 engineers during code reviews and debugging, mentor interns and co-ops on best practices, and conduct “lunch-and-learn” sessions as needed.Collaborate with Mechanical, Build, Electrical, and Project Management teams to align project scope and resolve integration challenges.Conduct root-cause analysis on complex debugging issues, escalating as necessary.Present technical details to clients, clarify specifications, and collaborate with vendors on component selection.Willingness to travel approximately 10% - 20% is required.- Champion Our Operating Principles: You will be expected to actively embody and uphold our ten Operating Principles, which guide our actions and decisions at Axis Automation. These principles are crucial to our culture and success.

Position Overview: The Lead Technical Controls Engineer represents the pinnacle of technical expertise within our department. This role is responsible for designing and delivering sophisticated automation cells, incorporating elements such as PLC, HMI, robotics, motion control, safety systems, electrical, and pneumatic components. As the primary technical mentor for the Controls team, the Lead Engineer establishes coding and hardware standards, influences system architecture decisions, and troubleshoots high-impact issues. Additionally, this role plays a vital part in advanced discussions with customers and suppliers, ensuring that the Controls Engineering division is well represented.

About Us: Axis Automation is a pioneering force in the realm of factory automation, bringing together the expertise of our talented engineers and machine builders to innovate, design, integrate, and maintain cutting-edge automation systems tailored for the manufacturing sector. With a wealth of experience spanning numerous projects and diverse automation configurations, our team is committed to excellence. Our Mission: We strive to facilitate the integration of automation solutions that empower individuals and boost productivity. Our Vision: To emerge as the premier provider of automation solutions within the manufacturing landscape. Your Role: We are seeking a driven and career-oriented Account Manager to become part of our close-knit team, specializing in the engineering and integration of custom factory automation equipment across various industries. Key Responsibilities: Identify and acquire new clients in diverse non-automotive sectors. Foster and expand relationships with existing and newly acquired clients. Achieve or surpass annual project order goals. Collaborate effectively with team members, clients, and supplier partners throughout the project lifecycle. Provide insightful metrics, reports, and criteria for sales performance and activities. Engage in strategic planning and goal-setting focused on targeting specific markets and customer communications to drive account growth. Maintain accurate records for forecasting, quoting, and expense tracking. Support the Applications Engineering team in creating solutions that meet client needs. Contribute to marketing initiatives and proactive market outreach efforts.

Job Description Controls Engineer, Level 2/3 Join Axis Automation, a forward-thinking company that is passionate about innovation in factory automation. We are seeking dedicated Controls Engineers to be part of our close-knit team, where your contributions will lead to exciting opportunities for career growth and professional advancement. At Axis Automation, we pride ourselves on harnessing the power of teamwork among our talented engineers and machine builders to design, integrate, deploy, and maintain cutting-edge factory automation systems. With decades of collective experience, we have successfully completed numerous projects and configurations, making us a trusted partner for modern manufacturing clients. Position Overview: As a Controls Engineer, you will collaborate with a diverse group of professionals, including Project Managers, Mechanical Engineers, Builders, and Technicians, to craft, implement, and document control systems for a variety of automation and robotic equipment. This role involves hands-on engagement with electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic system design, programming PLCs, HMIs, and robotic devices, as well as machine debugging and validation. Expect to spend about 10-20% of your time traveling to customer sites for installations, startups, and support. Opportunities Available: Controls Engineer, Level 2/3: Requires a minimum of 2 years of experience in Controls Engineering and design, with proven technical abilities, leadership skills on larger projects, customer engagement, and a proactive attitude. Primary Responsibilities: Assist in developing designs for electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems for automated work cells. Implement programming tasks for PLCs (ladder/basic structured text), HMIs, and robots, adhering to established architecture and standards; execute I/O mapping, device setups, alarms/diagnostics, and basic data handling. Interpret customer specifications and effectively communicate to ensure machinery meets both client and Axis Automation standards. Conduct initial troubleshooting using schematics and code; document findings and escalate issues with clear context. Comply with code and electrical standards; maintain current backups/change logs, I/O and tag maps, and manuals for your assigned scope. Support offline/online debugging, device bring-up, FAT/SAT assistance, and on-site startups under supervision; follow testing procedures and document results. Manage customer interactions professionally to foster strong relationships.

About Us:At Challenge Manufacturing, we are committed to achieving operational excellence through the empowerment of our employee-owners. As a premier tier 1 supplier of intricate metal assemblies for the global automotive sector, we pioneer innovative solutions for future mobility. We believe that the best ideas emerge from diverse perspectives. By combining these ideas with the collaborative efforts of industry experts, we successfully tackle any challenge. Our team members take immense pride in their work and embody our core values of safety, ownership, and teamwork daily; they are the true driving force behind our success.Challenge Manufacturing is proud to be among the largest employee-owned automotive firms in North America. One significant advantage of joining our team is participation in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). This program enables us to award company shares to all employee-owners annually, contributing to a growing retirement benefit throughout your tenure at Challenge. Being part of an ESOP means our employee-owners partake in the success of Challenge!Challenge is #QualityDriven and #PeoplePowered!Your Role:The Compensation and Benefits Specialist plays a crucial role in ensuring the accurate, compliant, and consistent administration of payroll and compensation while also supporting our Benefits Specialists in managing Challenge’s benefits programs. This position collaborates closely with our plant HR teams to coach, train, and guide them through the payroll processing each week. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong attention to detail, a solid understanding of compensation fundamentals, and experience in payroll processing using Workday or similar HRIS platforms. Key responsibilities include processing salaried team member payroll, assisting employees with benefits enrollment and inquiries, approving benefit elections and vendor invoices, and generating payroll reports.Key Responsibilities:Oversee bi-weekly payroll processing for over 600 salaried team members, ensuring precise time and attendance approvals, pay calculations, deductions, and adherence to company policies and legal regulations.Assist with hourly payroll processing for plant locations as required.Process manual checks, off-cycle payments, corrections, and replacements for lost or incorrect checks.Monitor uncashed checks and prepare necessary annual state reporting.Compile payroll data including hours worked, earnings, deductions, garnishments, and benefit premiums.Administer FOC and garnishment deductions for salaried team members.Respond to employee inquiries regarding payroll and benefits.

Project Coordinator Join Our Team at Axis Automation!We are seeking a motivated and career-focused Project Coordinator to become an integral part of our innovative and close-knit team, dedicated to developing custom factory automation equipment. At Axis Automation, we pride ourselves on our ambitious goals and provide ample opportunities for professional growth and career advancement!Our team utilizes the expertise of top engineers and machine builders to design, integrate, deploy, and maintain cutting-edge factory automation systems for progressive manufacturing clients. With decades of experience and a wealth of successful projects under our belt, we are at the forefront of the automation industry. Role Overview:The Project Coordinator plays a vital role in assisting Project Managers throughout the lifecycle of automation projects, from initial kickoff to project closure. Key responsibilities include customer support, managing project communications, tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure alignment with schedule, budget, and scope, as well as handling various administrative duties. Support Project Managers in overseeing open equipment projects from order placement to completion. Coordinate important customer visits, track part receipts, and manage project team travel. Handle administrative tasks such as job closures, milestone payment tracking, and invoice preparation. Assist in preparing project communication materials, compiling data, and generating reports. Maintain organized project folders and documentation. Collaborate with project managers and department leads in tracking project progress. Verify accuracy of costs associated with projects. Coordinate with designers, suppliers, and purchasing to ensure timely delivery of components. Ensure completion of Axis and customer audits/check sheets at project milestones. Prepare and facilitate internal/external project status meetings, escalating critical issues as necessary. Communicate project developments in real-time with Axis departments. Assist with various projects and departmental needs, including process improvement and design. Conduct “lessons learned” evaluations to enhance future projects. Travel to installation sites to oversee project execution, ensuring customer satisfaction, and assist with proposal activities containing technical and commercial content.

Lead Machine Builder Join the innovative team at Axis Automation, where we're on the cutting edge of custom factory automation solutions. We are seeking passionate individuals eager to contribute to our collaborative environment and grow within our ambitious company. About Us: At Axis Automation, our team combines the expertise of seasoned engineers and machine builders who design, integrate, deploy, and maintain advanced factory automation systems for progressive manufacturing clients. With decades of experience across numerous projects, we pride ourselves on our ability to deliver tailored automation configurations. Position Overview: As a Lead Machine Builder, you will be instrumental in constructing mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems for our bespoke factory automation equipment. Your role will involve coordinating with mechanical design engineers, controls engineers, and project managers to ensure seamless integration and execution of our equipment. Key Responsibilities: Interpret and utilize drawings and blueprints for the effective assembly of automation equipment. Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical challenges. Develop comprehensive plans for building complex assemblies. Manage time and expectations across multiple projects while demonstrating a strong work ethic and commitment to quality. Collaborate effectively in a team setting. Document and communicate changes and issues clearly. Prepare materials for secondary processes as needed. Operate hand and power tools, mills, lathes, drill presses, surface grinders, saws, and shears safely and effectively. Maintain a clean and organized workspace. Train and mentor junior machine builders. Regularly lift objects weighing 50 lbs or more. Embody and uphold our Operating Principles, which guide our culture and success.

Controls Electrician- Open Position -At Axis Automation, we harness the collaborative efforts of our skilled engineers and machine builders to innovate, design, integrate, deploy, and maintain cutting-edge factory automation systems for progressive manufacturing clients. With decades of experience and a proven track record of numerous projects and diverse automation configurations, our team is primed to deliver exceptional results.Position Overview: As a Controls Electrician, you will play a crucial role in the electrical assembly of automation equipment. Your responsibilities will include the construction and wiring of electrical panels and components for various automation projects. We welcome entry-level candidates who possess foundational electrical knowledge and a strong willingness to learn.Collaborate as a member of the Controls Electrician team during the electrical assembly of automation equipment.Construct and wire electrical panels and machinery in accordance with approved designs and customer specifications.Document and communicate any alterations or issues encountered.Engage with the project team to address open issues and track progress throughout the build process.Contribute to the successful execution of equipment builds with a focus on cost, quality, timeliness, and customer satisfaction.Safely troubleshoot wiring and circuit issues.Read and interpret schematics effectively.Identify and resolve problems, including implementing poke-yokes and optimizing cycle times.Travel for customer installations and equipment run-offs as needed.Diagnose electrical problems and propose necessary adjustments or repairs.Work collaboratively with all departments throughout the project lifecycle, including debugging and run-offs.Embrace and exemplify our Operating Principles, which are essential to our culture and success at Axis Automation.

About Challenge Manufacturing Company Challenge Manufacturing Company stands as one of the largest employee-owned automotive suppliers in North America. Specializing in complex metal assemblies for the global automotive market, the company focuses on quality and innovation in every project. Employee-owners play a central role, contributing ideas and working closely with industry leaders to solve real challenges. Core values include safety, ownership, and teamwork. Employees participate in an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), receiving shares of the company each year. This program adds a long-term retirement benefit and allows everyone to share in the company’s growth and achievements. Role Overview: Workday Specialist (On-Site, Temporary) This temporary, on-site position is based at 3200 Fruit Ridge Ave, Walker, MI 49544. The Workday Specialist will support the implementation and ongoing enhancement of the Human Capital Management (HCM) system as Challenge transitions from ADP to Workday. The role involves leading the implementation process, preparing for the July 1 go-live, and serving as the main point of contact for system configuration after launch. The position requires strong Workday experience and the ability to quickly understand business processes and system architecture. The Workday Specialist will work closely with HR, Payroll, and business leaders, executing system builds and prioritized enhancements as internal teams adapt to the new platform. Key Responsibilities Serve as the main Workday subject matter expert during implementation and stabilization phases. Work with internal teams to identify business needs and convert them into Workday configurations and enhancements. Continue system buildout after go-live, including workflows, business processes, reports, and configurations as directed. Support the transition from ADP to Workday by understanding current processes and ensuring accurate system setup. Troubleshoot system issues and provide hands-on support during and after implementation.

Lead Controls ElectricianJoin Axis Automation, where innovation meets collaboration. Our dedicated team of engineers and machine builders work hand-in-hand to envision, design, integrate, and provide top-notch service for factory automation systems tailored for pioneering manufacturing clients. With decades of expertise and a portfolio featuring hundreds of projects, our commitment to excellence sets us apart in the automation landscape.Position Overview: As the Lead Controls Electrician, you will be a pivotal member of our electrical assembly team, focusing on the wiring and panel building of electrical components for automation equipment projects.Key Responsibilities:• Lead and mentor electrical team members across various projects• Oversee build progress to ensure project timelines are adhered to• Serve as the primary point of contact for electrical status updates and issue resolution during the build• Facilitate onboarding and mentoring of new hires• Construct and wire custom panels and systems according to design specifications• Interpret and execute electrical schematics and customer documentation• Efficiently troubleshoot and resolve electrical challenges• Document modifications and communicate updates throughout the build process• Ensure project success by prioritizing quality, cost-effectiveness, and customer satisfaction• Collaborate with cross-functional teams throughout all project phases• Participate in on-site installations and support operations.• Uphold our Operating Principles: You will be expected to actively embody and uphold our ten Operating Principles, which are essential to our culture and success at Axis Automation.

Join our dynamic team as an Event Specialist with immediate openings! In this role, you will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing engaging events that captivate audiences and drive brand awareness. We are looking for enthusiastic individuals who thrive in fast-paced environments and possess excellent communication skills.

Join our innovative team at Axis Company as a Senior Mechanical Engineer. In this pivotal role, you will leverage your expertise in mechanical engineering to contribute to cutting-edge projects. Your responsibilities will include designing and developing mechanical systems, conducting feasibility studies, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure project success.

About the Role Challenge Manufacturing Company is hiring a Shipping Repack/Packoff Specialist for the 3rd shift at our facility on Three Mile Road in Walker, MI. This position helps prepare products for distribution by repacking and packaging items according to company standards. What You Will Do Repack and pack off products for shipment Follow detailed instructions to ensure packaging accuracy Support quality and efficiency in the shipping process Location and Shift 3079 Three Mile Road, Walker, MI 49534 3rd Shift

Join our dynamic team as a Senior Financial Planning & Analysis Associate at Challenge Manufacturing Company, where we are dedicated to driving financial insight and strategic growth. In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for developing comprehensive financial models, conducting variance analysis, and supporting the budgeting and forecasting processes.Your expertise will help guide decision-making and enhance our financial performance, making you a vital asset to our organization.