Controls Engineer - B-Crew

Position Overview

The Controls Engineer is responsible for creating, documenting, developing, supporting and improving upon the control systems that are essential to the production processes. Involvement will range from initial project sourcing through SOP +90 days (or as required) for both corporate and launch plant employees. Additional duties include providing controls expertise on tooling design and automation for new projects and process changes; transferring all equipment and process documentation (including OEM manuals, BOM, drawings, recommended spare parts and PM’s) to the Production Plant prior to SOP; and participating in the development of RFQ’s and Equipment Specifications for Capital and Tooling Requirements.

Piston Automotive wasn’t just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better – building teams dedicated to achieving excellence through experience, expertise, and passion. Piston Automotive is committed to excellence, diversity, and inclusivity. For any questions regarding job opportunities or the application process, please reach out to us at pistongrouptalent@pistongroup.com.

Key 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 the main 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, EthernetIP).
• Offer support for controls-related issues to prevent or minimize production downtime.
• Drive lean concepts (5S, OEE, Kanban, Visual Factory, TPM, etc.) throughout the organization.
• Implement process improvements, including increased automation for overall efficiency.
• Collaborate on all controls-related communications internally and externally, 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 integrate them into Piston Standards.
• Provide guidance to Maintenance Technicians to foster skill development and strengthen the team.
• Implement reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Associate or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Programming, or a related field (relevant experience considered in lieu of a degree).
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience as a Controls Engineer or Maintenance Technician.
• Experience maintaining robots in production processes.
• Familiarity with JIT, SPD, ILVS, and Batch manufacturing systems.
• Strong knowledge of manual and automated assembly systems and technologies, including both mechanical and control systems.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Project, PowerPoint, AutoCAD, Studio 5000 Logix Designer, and FactoryTalk View Studio.
• Controls Technical Proficiency:
  • PLC Programming (2-4 years): Allen Bradley ControlLogix 5000 processors
  • Vision Systems Programming (2-4 years): Cognex, Keyence
  • HMI Programming (2-4 years): FactoryTalk View Studio, PanelView Plus
  • Robot Programming: Touchup paths and troubleshooting stoppages

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive Wages
• Paid Holidays & Vacation
• Medical & Rx Plans
• Dental & Vision Plans
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Health Savings Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Life & Disability Coverage
• 401K with Company Match
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Vehicle and Product Discounts
• Shift: Onsite - Plant, B Crew - 5:30 PM - 4:00 AM; Tues - Fri