Company Description Piston Automotive, founded by Vinnie Johnson in 1995, has grown from a small corrugated pallet manufacturer into one of America’s leading value-added assembly companies. With nearly two decades of experience, the company is known for its focus on building value, strong relationships, and a track record of proven success. Piston Automotive supports some of the automotive industry’s most complex and challenging projects, including advanced electric and hybrid vehicle battery systems. The organization is committed to continuous improvement, innovation, and growth, with an emphasis on future-focused solutions and operational excellence. Team members join a company that works every day to be better than the day before.
Role Description The Controls Engineer role is a full-time, on-site position based in Kansas City, MO. In this role, the Controls Engineer designs, programs, and maintains control systems for automated production equipment, ensuring reliable and efficient operation. Day-to-day tasks include developing PLC and HMI logic, troubleshooting control and electrical issues, and optimizing process performance to meet safety, quality, and productivity targets. The Controls Engineer collaborates with cross-functional teams such as manufacturing, maintenance, quality, and engineering to support new product launches, equipment upgrades, and continuous improvement initiatives. Additional responsibilities may include documenting system designs, supporting root-cause analysis, training operations personnel on equipment functionality, and assisting with equipment commissioning and validation.
Qualifications
- Demonstrated expertise in industrial controls and automation, including PLC programming, HMI development, and motion control.
- Strong understanding of electrical systems, sensors, instrumentation, and industrial networks used in manufacturing environments.
- Experience with troubleshooting, diagnostics, and root-cause analysis of control systems and automated equipment.
- Ability to read and interpret technical documentation such as electrical schematics, control narratives, and equipment manuals.
- Familiarity with safety standards and regulations related to industrial controls, machine safeguarding, and electrical systems.
- Effective collaboration skills to work with production, maintenance, quality, and engineering teams on projects and daily support.
- Solid organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field, or equivalent practical experience.
- Experience in the automotive or high-volume manufacturing sector is preferred.
- Comfort with on-site work in a production setting and willingness to support occasional off-shift or weekend activities as needed.