Automation Maintenance Technician - Auburn Hills, MI

CBRE Group, Inc.; Auburn Hills (MI); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

CBRE Group, Inc. is seeking an Automation Technician to support operations maintenance for automated material handling and robotics.

You will diagnose, repair, and maintain ASRS crane systems, AMRs, autonomous forklifts, vision/scan systems, conveyors, and related controls to ensure high‑throughput operations run reliably. The role emphasizes safety, preventive maintenance, and collaboration with Operations to optimize equipment performance.

Qualifications

• Hands‑on experience with automated material handling systems or automation equipment.
• Strong mechanical maintenance background for industrial machinery and automotive systems.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, electrical schematics, and technical diagrams.
• Basic understanding of electrical/electronic principles and sensors.
• Familiarity with CMMS for work orders and maintenance docs.
• Willingness to learn and collaborate with maintenance and operations teams.

Responsibilities

• Promote a safe working environment by following safety procedures and using PPE.
• Perform preventative and predictive maintenance on ASRS cranes, AMRs, forklifts, conveyors, and related controls.
• Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and controls issues on material handling equipment.
• Install, maintain, and repair automated systems using blueprints and OEM manuals.
• Track maintenance inventory and coordinate with Operations and other departments.
• Work flexible schedules, including off‑shifts or overtime as needed.

Skills

Automation systems

Mechanical maintenance

Electrical troubleshooting

Blueprint interpretation

Safety compliance

Tools

CMMS software

Job description

Global Workplace Solutions (GWS) Local is a hard services‑led, tailored facility management solution. We self‑perform hard services while partnering with best‑in‑class soft service providers to deliver custom facility and project management solutions to our clients. We focus on empowering our teams with a high level of downstream accountability, resulting in agile and efficient service delivery.

In addition to our core facility and project management capabilities, our platform provides direct access to best‑in‑class services including ESG, Security Consulting, Workplace Strategy, and Workplace Experience.

What this job involves:

As an Automation Technician at CBRE, you will support the client’s Operations Maintenance team by diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining advanced automated material handling and robotics systems. This hands‑on technical role combines electrical, mechanical, and controls expertise with preventative and predictive maintenance practices to ensure high‑throughput operations run reliably. You will work with Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) crane racking systems, self‑guided material handlers, Kuka Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), Gideon self‑guided forklifts, Cognex automated camera and dock scanning systems, and related conveyor and pneumatic equipment. This position offers the opportunity to expand your technical skills while contributing to a culture focused on safety and operational excellence.

What your day‑to‑day will look like

Promote a safe working environment by following all safety procedures, using appropriate personal protective equipment, and adhering to OEM and site‑specific safety standards for automated equipment.

• Perform preventative and predictive maintenance on ASRS crane systems, AMRs, autonomous forklifts, vision and scanning systems, conveyors, and related controls while documenting all work thoroughly within the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS)
• Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and controls‑related issues involving material handling equipment, including motors, drives, sensors, photo eyes, relays, robotic components, and Cognex vision systems.

• Install, maintain, and repair automated systems by reading and interpreting blueprints, electrical schematics, technical diagrams, and OEM manuals to diagnose and resolve equipment issues.
• Track and manage maintenance inventory while maintaining positive working relationships with Operations and other facility departments.
• Work flexible schedules as needed to support operational requirements, including off‑shifts and overtime when necessary.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Hands‑on experience or strong exposure to automated material handling systems, ASRS, AMRs/AGVs, autonomous industrial vehicles, or similar automation equipment is preferred.
• Mechanical maintenance experience with industrial machinery, equipment, or automotive systems is also highly transferable to this role.
• Ability or willingness to learn how to read and interpret blueprints, electrical schematics, and technical drawings for troubleshooting purposes.
• Basic understanding of electrical and electronic principles, including sensors and input/output devices, or a strong interest in developing these skills.
• Familiarity with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) for work order tracking and maintenance documentation is a plus.
• Previous exposure to robotic or electromechanical systems in warehouse, distribution, or manufacturing environments is helpful but not required.
• A strong willingness to learn, follow technical guidance, and collaborate effectively with maintenance and operations teams in a fast‑paced environment.

Physical Demands

Work is performed in an industrial manufacturing environment and requires consistent physical activity throughout the shift. Technicians can expect extended periods of standing and walking on concrete floors, often 10 hours or more per shift. The role requires regular bending, kneeling, crouching, overhead reaching, and twisting. Responsibilities include lifting and carrying tools or parts typically weighing up to 20 pounds, with occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds. The position may also require moving carts or wheeled equipment exceeding 100 pounds and handling bulky or irregularly shaped components. Strong manual dexterity and hand‑eye coordination are essential. The work environment may include confined spaces, airborne dust, temperature fluctuations, elevated noise and vibration levels, uneven surfaces, work at heights, and restricted‑access areas beneath or behind machinery.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Why CBRE

When you join CBRE, you become part of the global leader in commercial real estate services and investment, helping businesses and people thrive. We are dynamic problem solvers and forward‑thinking professionals who create meaningful impact. Our collaborative culture is built on our shared values of respect, integrity, service, and excellence, and we value the diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and skill sets of our people. At CBRE, you will have the opportunity to chart your own career path and realize your full potential. We welcome all applicants.

Applicant AI Use Disclosure

We value human interaction in understanding each candidate’s unique experience, skills, and aspirations. We do not use artificial intelligence tools to make hiring decisions, and we ask candidates to disclose any use of AI during the application and interview process.