APPLICATIONS ENGINEER
Reports to:  Sales Manager

PRIMARY FUNCTION
A support role for the sales department assisting in the development of design concepts; estimating project cost for workholding, precision machining, and custom automation solutions.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Reviews requests for quotations, project specifications, and supporting documentation; understanding our customers’ needs.
• Conducts feasibility studies, when applicable.
• Develops concepts that include:
  1. Automation:
     1. Develop 2d and 3d layouts, cycle time estimates, address critical assembly processes, and determines manual/automatic functions.
     2. Must have knowledge of hydraulics, pneumatics, and machine controls.
  2. Workholding:
     1. Develop 3d concepts based on customer part prints, GD&T, and customer supplied processes.  
     2. An understanding of CNC machines including, machine strokes, machine weight requirements, and a base understanding of machining processes.
     3. Must have knowledge of hydraulics and pneumatics.
• Evaluates the simplicity of a solution and suggests ways to make a project more efficient and cost-effective for the customer.
• Suggests prototyping, simulations, and cycle-time estimates, when applicable.
• Conducts design reviews with the customer and collaborates on the concept; makes changes where necessary.
• Works with vendors to secure material costs and lead times.
• Uses cost-estimating spreadsheet to provide accurate costs of material and labor.
• Prepares detailed written proposals.
• Updates CRM software throughout the estimating and proposal process.
• Communicates with Sales Engineer and the customer to clarify all critical needs are met.
• Addresses discrepancies or exceptions, lists assumptions made during proposal, and communicates differences in terms and conditions.
• Reviews pricing and proposals with Sales Engineer, making adjustments where needed.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• Four years or more of education and/or experience in the automation and special machine/workholding industry preferred.
  • BS in ME, EE, ET or equivalent engineering experience desired.
• Mechanical/controls design and project management experience is a plus.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills required.
• Must be highly organized.
• Must be a strong collaborator with internal and external teams.
• Must be adept in using Microsoft Office suite, especially Excel.
• SolidWorks experience strongly desired.

WORKING CONDITIONS
Typical office environment.  Some travel to customer facilities is necessary.