Controls Engineer

Piper Companies is actively seeking Controls Engineer to join an innovative R&D organization focused on designing and building next‑generation automated machinery. These positions are direct hire and are on-site in Durham, NC. This team operates at the intersection of automation and modern software engineering, developing cutting‑edge, high‑speed systems from concept through deployment.

Responsibilities of the Controls Engineer:

* Design, program, and debug PLC/PAC systems using IEC 61131‑3 languages (Ladder Logic, Structured Text)

* Develop automation solutions for new machine builds, taking systems from concept through implementation

* Integrate I/O systems using industrial protocols (Ether

CAT, Modbus TCP, IO‑Link)

* Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, R&D, scientists) to deliver system functionality

* Support HMI development and interface design for machine interaction

* Troubleshoot and validate controls systems using electrical tools and diagnostics

* Utilize source control (Git) for version management, collaboration, and deployment

* Participate in commissioning, including limited travel for customer installations

Qualifications of the Controls Engineer:

* 5+ years of experience in controls engineering for industrial machinery (Senior level)

* Experience beyond basic ladder logic programming, including structured text or object‑oriented approaches

* Experience working across multiple PLC platforms (not limited to Allen Bradley)

* Strong troubleshooting experience with controls panels and electrical systems

* Familiarity with modern development practices, including source control (Git)

* Experience with Beckhoff TwinCAT, Codesys, or similar platforms preferred

* Exposure to motion control, HMI development, and industrial networking protocols

* Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field

Nice to Have:

* Experience with electrical panel design

* Familiarity with CAD tools (AutoCAD Electrical, Solid Works)

* MTR certification or similar

Compensation for the Controls Engineer:

* Salary: $80,000 - $125,000 + 5% bonus

* Comprehensive Benefits:
Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), PTO, and additional benefits

Additional Details:

* Travel: 1-2 trips per year for installations (a few days to one week)

* Work Environment: R&D-focused, highly collaborative team of 8-10 controls engineers

* Opportunity to own features and subsystems, with senior engineers providing technical leadership

This job opens for applications on 5/12/2026. Applications will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date.

, R&D, Machine Building, Git, Source Control, HMI, Motion Control, Electrical Design, Ether

CAT, Modbus, IO-Link, Dev Ops, Manufacturing, Robotics

#LI-KI1 #LI-ONSITE