1

Piston Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Quality Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

$68K - $88K/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 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 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

Redford, MI · On-site

$75K - $97K/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 ...

Quality Engineer

North Kansas City, MO · On-site

$66K - $86K/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

Redford, MI · On-site

$75K - $97K/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 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 ...

Quality Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

$68K - $88K/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 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 ...

Quality Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

$68K - $88K/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 ...

Quality Engineer

North Kansas City, MO

$66K - $86K/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 ...

Quality Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$68K - $88K/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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Piston information

See salary details

$10

$16

$29

How much do piston jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for piston in the United States is $16.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are pistons and what do they do in an engine?

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 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.

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.
More about Piston jobs
What cities are hiring for Piston jobs? Cities with the most Piston job openings:
What states have the most Piston jobs? States with the most job openings for Piston jobs include:
Infographic showing various Piston job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,605 per year, or $16.6 per hour.
Quality Engineer

$68K - $88K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 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

As a Quality Engineer, you will be responsible for planning and directing activities concerned with development, application, and maintenance of the quality operation system (QOS) for manufacturing processes, materials, and products.

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

Responsibilities

Support and actively participates in the APQP process for new product launch.

Lead problem solving activities and continuous improvement efforts as it relates to customer satisfaction and quality improvement.

Maintain all aspects ISO/TS guidelines Develop and maintain operator work instructions, Process FMEA's, and Control Plan for work conducted on production lines.

Develops and initiates standards and methods for inspection, testing, and evaluation. Support the selection of measurement instruments use on the production floor and determine Gage R&R accuracy. Perform and track capability studies monthly.

Support manufacturing to eliminate scrap. Track and report daily scrap information. Provide onsite support at Customer/Supplier site to investigate and/or address concerns. Maintain 8D, ICA/PCA, & CI logs to resolve customer issues and prevent recurrence. Issue Quality Problem Notice (QPN) to suppliers on quality issues, coordinate supplier and customer containment activities, and facilitate Return Material Analysis (RMA's)

Support Layer Process Audit (LPA) guidelines. Track and report monthly quality performance for Warranty (R/1000's), Plant Rejects (PPM), Process Capability, Internal Concerns (C/1000's) for the assemble products.

And all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree (B. A.) from four-year College or university; and/or five years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.  
  • Experience: 4 years of consistent and concurrent experience.  Internship and Co-op experience included.
  • Previous Automotive Experience with Ford 
  • Plant Manufacturing Experience 
  • Ability to work with all levels
  • Powerpoint presentations to top management.  And can speak to the presentation. Good presentation skills

PREFERRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:

  • It is preferred, but not required the candidate be knowledgeable in safety processes, Kaizan, 5S, APQP, ISO9001/TS16949, Lean, 6 Sigma, 8D, & PPAP.

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.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME