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Piston Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer C-Crew

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$77K - $99K/yr

Piston Automotive wasn't just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And that begins with building better teams solely dedicated to achieving excellence at every level of ...

Controls Engineer 3rd Shift

Wentzville, MO · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

Piston Automotive wasn't just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And that begins with building better teams solely dedicated to achieving excellence at every level of ...

Controls Engineer A-Crew

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$77K - $99K/yr

Piston Automotive wasn't just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And that begins with building better teams solely dedicated to achieving excellence at every level of ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Wentzville, MO · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Piston Automotive wasn't just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And that begins with building better teams solely dedicated to achieving excellence at every level of ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Wentzville, MO

$70K - $90K/yr

Piston Automotive wasn't just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And that begins with building better teams solely dedicated to achieving excellence at every level of ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Wentzville, MO · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Piston Automotive wasn't just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And that begins with building better teams solely dedicated to achieving excellence at every level of ...

... piston travel). • Adhere to safety rules of switching outside and inside the shop. • Assist with track maintenance (driving spikes, lubing switches, tighten joint bars, and recognize needed track ...

Machining, Centrifugal, Piston, and Diaphragm Pumps, Hydraulic and Pneumatic pumps and control systems, Heating Ventilation Cooling, All facets of construction, Pipefitting, Welding and assembly ...

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Piston information

See Missouri salary details

$9

$14

$25

How much do piston jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for piston in Missouri is $14.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.72 and $15.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a piston?

Pistons are cylindrical components that move up and down inside the cylinders of an engine. They play a crucial role in converting the energy from combustion into mechanical motion that ultimately powers a vehicle or machine. The piston's movement helps compress the air-fuel mixture and transmits the resulting force to the crankshaft via the connecting rod. This process enables the engine to generate the power needed for motion.

What are some common challenges faced by piston engineers in maintaining optimal engine performance?

Piston Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing engine efficiency with durability, minimizing friction and wear, and ensuring pistons can withstand high temperatures and pressures. Staying updated with advancements in materials and manufacturing processes is also crucial, as is collaborating closely with design and testing teams to address issues that arise during prototyping or real-world operation. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication within multidisciplinary teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a piston engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Piston Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical engineering, materials science, and thermodynamics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like ANSYS, and engine testing equipment is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure efficient piston design, optimal engine performance, and successful collaboration in automotive or manufacturing environments.

What is the difference between Piston vs Valve Technician?

AspectPistonValve Technician
Required CertificationsASE certifications, mechanical licensesASE certifications, mechanical licenses
Work EnvironmentEngine repair shops, manufacturing plantsAutomotive repair shops, industrial facilities
Industry UsageAutomotive, manufacturing, aerospaceAutomotive, industrial machinery

Both Piston and Valve Technicians require similar certifications and often work in automotive or manufacturing environments. However, pistons are primarily associated with engine components, while valve technicians focus on engine valves and related systems. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the mechanical repair industry.

Infographic showing various Piston job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,137 per year, or $14.5 per hour.

Controls Engineer C-Crew

Piston Automotive

Kansas City, MO • On-site

$77K - $99K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Piston Automotive rating

2.6

Company rating: 2.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

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 all the way through SOP +90 days, or as required for corporate employees or launch through EOP plant employees. Both may be required to support implementation of engineering changes for current production products. You will provide your controls expertise to help in tooling design and automation for new projects and process changes driven by product engineering changes. Additionally, responsible for the transfer of all equipment and process documentation to the Production Plant prior to SOP; this includes all OEM equipment documentation (electronic and hard copies of manuals, BOM, drawings, recommended spare parts and recommended PM's). Participating in the development of RFQ's and Equipment Specifications for Capital and Tooling Requirements. Responsible for programming torque control systems and joint development. Selection of error and mistake proofing devices. Supports Engineering Cost Estimator to supply quoted assumptions for the assembly process requirements, capital / tooling investments and direct / indirect labor. Help establish design goals, process and equipment specifications for Controls and Electrical power distribution systems.
Piston Automotive wasn't just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And that begins with building better teams solely dedicated to achieving excellence at every level of execution through a combination of experience, expertise, and a deep seeded passion for what we do. Our assemblies consistently set the standard because our people consistently raise the bar.
Why Piston Automotive?
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
Hours - C Crew - 5:30 PM - 4:00 AM; Sunday/Monday night - 6am-4:30pm Friday/Saturday
Responsibilities
  • Analyze and calculate machine performance and requirements utilizing the PLC.
  • Responsible for the planning, coordination, and implementation and tracking of assigned projects.
  • Develop and track capital investment budgets for assigned projects.
  • Main interface with automation and capital equipment vendors for control solutions.
  • Provide controls guidance in equipment selection, overall operations and future expansion.
  • Integrating and networking PC's and PLC's (TCP/IP, EthernetIP)
  • Provide support for Controls related issues, as required, to prevent or minimize production downtime.
  • Drive lean concepts (5S, OEE, Kanban, Visual Factory, TPM etc.) throughout the organization.
  • Implement process improvements to improve overall efficiencies, including automation.
  • Collaborate on all controls related communication internally and externally, including technical presentation, design reviews, capacity analysis, and feasibility studies.
  • Supports Purchasing in evaluation of new suppliers, products and technologies to help maintain a competitive edge in the industry.
  • Benchmarking processes and equipment throughout the industry and incorporating into Piston Standards.
  • Provide guidance to Maintenance Technicians helping develop skillsets and strengthen the team.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Qualifications
  • A minimum of 2 years of experience as a Controls Engineer or Maintenance Technician.
  • Bachelor's degree (B. A.) in Engineering, Programming
  • 2-4 years of experience in PLC programming (Allen Bradley Micro Logic, SLC 500's, ControlLogix 5000 processors) for Manual Assembly Cells, Automated Assembly Cells and Power & Free conveyor systems.
  • A minimum of 2-4 years programming of Vision Systems (Cognex, DVT, Keyence)
  • 2-4 years of experience HMI programming (AB PanelView and PanelView Plus)
  • A minimum of 2 years of experience in JIT, SPD, ILVS and Batch manufacturing systems. Including broadcast analysis from customer trigger through customer installation.
  • 2 years of experience with Manual and Automated Assembly Systems and Technologies, including both mechanical and control systems.
  • A minimum of 2 years of technical experience required (Microsoft Word, Excel, Project, Power Point, AutoCAD, RSLogix 5000, RSLogix 500, RS View, ex.).

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 to us at pistongrouptalent@pistongroup.com. 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.

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