Controls Engineer C-Crew

Piston Automotive; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wages

Medical, Rx, dental & vision plans

401(k) with company match

Tuition reimbursement

Vehicle and product discounts

Job summary

Piston Automotive in Kansas City is seeking a Controls Engineer to develop and enhance control systems integral to production processes. Responsibilities include overseeing projects from sourcing through SOP, programming control systems, and improving equipment standards.

Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience and a Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline, as well as proficiency in PLC and HMI programming. The company offers competitive wages and a range of benefits.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Controls Engineer or Maintenance Technician.
• 2-4 years of PLC programming experience for assembly cells.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools and RSLogix.

Responsibilities

• Analyze machine performance utilizing the PLC.
• Coordinate and implement assigned projects.
• Integrate and network PCs and PLCs.

Skills

PLC programming

Vision system programming

HMI programming

Project management

Microsoft Office Suite

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Programming or related field

Tools

Allen Bradley MicroLogix

Cognex

AutoCAD

Job description

The Controls Engineer is responsible for creating, documenting, developing, supporting and improving the control systems essential to the production processes. The role covers project sourcing through SOP +90 days, implementing engineering changes, tooling design, automation for new projects, and transferring all equipment and process documentation to the Production Plant prior to SOP. Additionally, the engineer participates in RFQ development, equipment specifications, programming torque control systems, and supports the Engineering Cost Estimator for assembly process requirements and capital investments.

Company Overview

Piston Automotive was founded to make things better by building better teams focused on excellence at every level of execution.

Why Piston Automotive?

• Competitive wages, paid holidays & vacation
• Medical, Rx, dental & vision plans
• Flexible spending and health savings accounts
• Employee assistance program, life & disability coverage
• 401(k) with company match
• Tuition reimbursement, vehicle and product discounts

Hours

• C Crew: 6:00 AM – 4:30 PM
• Sunday/Monday night: 6:00 AM – 4:30 PM
• Friday/Saturday: 6:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Responsibilities

• Analyze and calculate machine performance and requirements utilizing the PLC.
• Plan, coordinate, implement and track assigned projects.
• Develop and track capital investment budgets for assigned projects.
• Serve as primary interface with automation and capital equipment vendors for control solutions.
• Provide controls guidance in equipment selection, overall operations and future expansion.
• Integrate and network PCs and PLCs (TCP/IP, Ethernet/IP).
• Support controls‑related issues to prevent or minimize production downtime.
• Drive lean concepts (5S, OEE, Kanban, visual factory, TPM) throughout the organization.
• Implement process improvements to enhance overall efficiencies, including automation.
• Collaborate on internal and external controls communications, including technical presentations, design reviews, capacity analysis, and feasibility studies.
• Support purchasing in evaluating new suppliers, products and technologies to maintain a competitive edge.
• Benchmark processes and equipment across the industry and incorporate findings into Piston standards.
• Guide maintenance technicians in developing skillsets and strengthening the team.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Controls Engineer or Maintenance Technician.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Programming or related field.
• 2‑4 years of PLC programming experience (Allen Bradley MicroLogix, SLC 500, ControlLogix 5000) for manual and automated assembly cells and conveyor systems.
• 2‑4 years of vision system programming (Cognex, DVT, Keyence).
• 2‑4 years of HMI programming experience (AB PanelView and PanelView Plus).
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in JIT, SPD, ILVS and batch manufacturing systems, including broadcast analysis from customer trigger through installation.
• 2 years of experience with manual and automated assembly systems and technologies, encompassing mechanical and control components.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Project, PowerPoint, AutoCAD, RSLogix 5000, RSLogix 500, RS View, and related tools.

EEO Statement

Piston Automotive, part of the Piston Group family of companies, is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace that values the unique contributions of every employee. We encourage all candidates to apply for positions that match their skills and capabilities, ensuring equal consideration without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. For any questions regarding job opportunities or the application process, please reach out at [e-mail]. We are committed to providing accommodations for individuals with disabilities during the job search and application process, reinforcing our commitment to inclusivity for all job seekers.