Body Laser Welding and Brazing Engineer

The Role

The career level Body Laser Welding and Brazing Engineer will work with automotive body laser welding and brazing at all levels of the manufacturing process including supporting current production; supporting installation of new laser systems; and developing new laser technologies and product applications.

What You Will Do (Responsibilities):

• Support current production laser welding and brazing both remotely and in-person at manufacturing locations in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

• Support implementation of new technologies on programs through engineering phase, prototype builds, system integration, launch & production.

• Work with Manufacturing Architects, Manufacturing Engineering (ME), and Product Interface Engineers to review new laser welding designs.

• Define/Execute program work testing in GM Labs and/or supplier facilities. 

• Develop improved laser welding processes and equipment utilizing the Advanced Technology Work process.

• Interface with Strategic Suppliers to verify compliance to GM and industry standards.

• Obtain project approvals and funding, utilizing GM systems and processes.

• Specify, configure, and operate equipment to test laser brazing and laser welding.

• Manage the design and build of fixturing necessary for laboratory testing.

• Work with other lab engineers, skilled trades and managers to accomplish cross-functional projects and provide project cost and timing estimates.

• Create summary data reports of laboratory testing & present findings to the broader team.

• Work on laser welding mechanical and metallography testing to support CAE joining card development.

• Identify and develop new technology projects to improve laser joining.

• Work closely with ME Body Center and functional areas to define laser welding system requirements (SOR).

• Develop Pre-Production process and support pre-production build problem resolution.

• Assist in specifying, procuring, integration, start-up and debug of plant floor laser welding equipment.

• Report as needed on status of new systems at operating unit(s).

• Work closely with operating unit(s) on laser joining systems to improve productivity, cost and quality.

• Implement common laser joining systems & develop common laser joining specifications and standards.

• Provide technical direction to suppliers and GM plant operations teams.

• Develop lessons learned and continuous improvement items and incorporate into standards, procedures, processes and tool designs.

• Keep current of developments regarding new technology and review competitor’s advancements.

Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications):

• Experience with high power laser joining systems in the manufacturing industry.

• Strong interpersonal skills involving ability to work effectively cross-functionally and cross-culturally.

• Project management skills.

• Thorough understanding of automotive body shop equipment & processes.

• High level of analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Strong verbal & written communication skills to support technology documentation and training requirements.

• Ability to create & execute a well-organized validation project where standardized work is not available.

• Ability to multitask by handling diverse assignments concurrently

• Knowledgeable with all standard computer programs (Microsoft Office, Teams, Teamcenter, etc.) - Intermediate level

• Knowledge of weld verification procedures, weld documentation, and build shop support.

• Knowledge of tooling and equipment troubleshooting.

• Demonstrated knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems used in laser joining processes.

• High level of practical problem solving.

• High level of abstract visualization and conceptualization to provide new and innovative solutions to laser joining issues.

• Ability to travel internationally including Canada and Mexico.

What Will Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications):

• 5+ years of using high power lasers systems in the automotive industry.

• Experience with both laser welding and laser brazing processes.

• Proficient programming of Fanuc robots.

• Ability to use common hand tools and operate shop tools such as band saws and drill presses.  

• Knowledgeable on setting up and operating laser optics such as Trumpf PFO, Highyag RLSK, and Scansonic ALO3 and ALO4.

• Experience with cleaning and repair of laser optics

• Body shop launch and plant experience

• Knowledge of CAD Programs (AutoCAD, Siemens NX, etc.)

• Knowledge of GM Welding & Joining Standards, Process Control Plans, Manufacturing Requirements, Vehicle Systems Wiring Diagrams and Global Engineering Processes.

• Ability to organize and run Teams meetings.

• Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred.

General

• Travel required on a limited basis to support launch activities and provide plant support.

• Pay for overtime policy varies with the business cycle, Launch requirements & Department policies

Education and Training:

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical or Weld Engineering

• 5-10 years of experience in manufacturing engineering/welding engineering

• 5 or more years of laser welding technology experience

Compensation:  

The compensation information is a good faith estimate only. It is based on what a successful applicant might be paid in accordance with applicable state laws. The actual base salary a successful candidate will be offered within this range will vary based on factors relevant to the position, as well as geography of the selected candidate. 
 

The salary range for this role is $80,200 - $125,900. The actual base salary a successful candidate will be offered within this range will vary based on factors relevant to the position.  

Bonus Potential: An incentive pay program offers payouts based on company performance, job level, and individual performance.