PLC Automation Engineer

Piper Companies is seeking a PLC Automation Engineer to join a growing engineering team supporting mission-critical industrial projects across the data center, pharmaceutical, and life sciences sectors. This PLC Automation Engineer will play a key role in controls system design, automation development, panel design, and project execution while helping drive process improvements and engineering innovation.

• Design and develop industrial control systems, including electrical schematics, panel layouts, and automation architectures for complex facility projects.
• Create and maintain detailed engineering documentation using AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN, or similar design platforms to support project deliverables.
• Configure, troubleshoot, and support Allen-Bradley PLC-based control systems from initial design through startup and commissioning activities.
• Lead design efforts on large-scale automation programs while coordinating with cross-functional engineering teams and mentoring less experienced engineers.
• Identify opportunities to streamline engineering workflows, automate design and submittal processes, and improve overall project quality and delivery timelines.

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline; equivalent industry experience will also be considered.
• 2-5 years of professional experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, electrical design, or related technical environments.
• Advanced proficiency with AutoCAD Electrical and/or EPLAN, including the ability to independently generate electrical and controls drawings.
• Extensive experience with Allen-Bradley and Rockwell Automation hardware, including component selection, panel design, wiring, and system integration.
• Ability to travel approximately 30% to customer locations and support project commissioning activities; exposure to automation-driven design improvements is highly preferred.

Salary Range: $95,000 - $115,000 annually

Bonus:
Performance-based bonus program tied to both individual contributions and overall company results.

Comprehensive Benefits:
Medical, Dental, Vision, sick leave if required by law, and 401K.

Work Arrangement:
Full-time permanent position based in Charlotte, NC. Five days onsite initially with future hybrid work eligibility based on performance and business needs.

Location:

Charlotte, North Carolina

Posting Date:
September 1, 2026

Apply By:
Open Until Filled

Travel Requirement:
Approximately 30% domestic travel, primarily supporting project work in the Southeast and Midwest regions.

Schedule:

Standard Monday-Friday schedule with typical hours of 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Average workweek is approximately 40 hours, with occasional project-driven increases during critical milestones.