Robot Operator

Rheinmetall; Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 52,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

American Rheinmetall in Michigan seeks an experienced Robot Operator to load parts, cycle operations, and optimize robot cell performance in a manufacturing setting.

You will troubleshoot the wire feed, perform welding parameter changes, maintain 5S housekeeping, and support lean initiatives while complying with safety policies and quality practices as part of a high-volume production team.

Qualifications

• Able to read and interpret blueprints and work instructions.
• Familiar with inspection methods and quality standards.
• Knowledge of safety requirements, AS9100, and ISO14001.
• Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to obtain overhead crane permit.

Responsibilities

• Loads part into robot cell by locating fixture and aligns part properly.
• Cycles the part in the fixture per specifications and requirements.
• Understands the functionality of the robot teach pendant.
• Performs robotic jogging functions and can touch up points to ensure part quality.
• Ensures robotic cells operate safely and safety devices are functional.
• Participates in lean initiatives and continuous improvement efforts.
• Performs weld consumable changes including tip, nozzle, gas, and wire.
• Monitors wire feeder and correct settings including drive rollers.
• Troubleshoots wire feed system components.
• Maintains 5S and housekeeping in the work area.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Robot programming basics

Lean manufacturing

Safety compliance

Teamwork

Education

Welding/Robotics certifications

Tools

Robot teach pendant

Overhead crane operation

Job description

American Rheinmetall is a leader in the design, development, and production of advanced tracked and wheeled vehicles, vehicle systems, and critical components that support U.S. military modernization. Our expertise spans electronic and mechanical systems, fabricated structures, armored products, rubber solutions, and track systems, delivering reliable innovation to both defense and commercial markets. As part of the global Rheinmetall family, we combine proven heritage with forward-looking technology to provide solutions that defend and feed the world.

Job Summary:

The Robot Operator is responsible to provide the necessary robot skills in an efficient manner that maximizes company assets in this area to support the Company in achieving optimal levels of safety, quality, productivity and delivery to assure internal and external customer satisfaction.

Essential Functions:

• Loads part into robot cell by locating fixture and aligns part properly.
• Cycles the part in the fixture per specifications and requirements.
• Responsible for understanding the functionality of the robot teach pendant.
• Performs the robotic jogging functions on robot and can touch up points as needed to ensure part quality based on fit up.
• Ensures robotic cells always function within a safe manner and that safety devices are operational based on the tasks the cell is performing.
• Participate in departmental continuous improvement efforts and support/implement lean initiatives.
• Support the company’s mission, vision and values in performance of daily activities.
• Performs weld consumable change encompassing weld tip, nozzle gas, diffuser and wire.
• Monitors the robotics wire feeder and correct settings including drive rollers.
• Troubleshoots the wire feed system including liners, feeder, tips, and torch.
• Maintain a positive working relationship with all levels of the organization.
• Maintain high level of housekeeping in the work area, including 5S.
• Adherence to all company policies, procedures, external regulations and legal requirements.
• Other duties as directed by management.

Minimum Qualifications:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (as demonstrated through experience, training and/or testing)

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and work instructions.
• Familiarity with inspection methods and quality standards.
• Knowledge of safety requirements, environmental policies, AS9100, and ISO14001.
• Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Must demonstrate the ability and willingness to obtain an overhead crane permit as part of job requirements.

Education:

• High School Diploma
• Certifications related to weld/robotics preferred. Minimum of two (2) years’ experience or equivalent in related field. Understands Robot programs and all functionality. Basic Robot operations completion (in house or certificate that equals or exceeds from outside)

Experience:

• Minimum of two (2) years’ experience or equivalent in related field. Understands Robot programs and all functionality. Basic Robot operations completion (in house or certificate that equals or exceeds from outside)
• Must undergo and meet company standards for background check, employment verification, reference checks and controlled substance testing.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience in aerospace, automotive, or high-precision manufacturing.
• Experience with 5S or lean manufacturing practices.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:

With or without reasonable accommodations, requires the physical and mental capacity to perform effectively all essential functions. In addition to other demands, the demands of the job include:

Physical Requirements:

• Occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to handle tools, and reach with arms.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Repetitiveness:

Tasks may involve repeated handling of parts and machine operations.

Work Environment:

Manufacturing and production floor environment with exposure to machinery, noise, and overhead crane operation.

Hazards/PPE:

Must wear required PPE and follow all safety and security protocols.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

American Rheinmetall provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sex (including pregnancy), gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or marital status, in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.