We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Application Engineer to support the development of custom industrial automation solutions from initial customer inquiry through proposal and project handoff. This role is responsible for reviewing customer requirements, developing technical solutions, preparing cost estimates and quotations, and responding to Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and Requests for Quotations (RFQs). The ideal candidate combines a strong understanding of industrial automation with the ability to interpret customer specifications, collaborate with engineering and sales teams, and develop competitive, technically sound proposals for custom automation equipment and systems. Experience with CAD software is preferred, with SolidWorks being the preferred platform. Key Responsibilities Quoting and Estimating: Prepare detailed quotations and cost estimates for custom automation machinery, assembly systems, robotic applications, material handling systems, and other industrial automation solutions. RFP/RFQ Management: Review and respond to customer RFPs, RFQs, technical specifications, and bid packages, ensuring proposed solutions meet customer requirements and project expectations. Application Development: Evaluate customer applications, identify technical requirements, and develop preliminary automation concepts and system configurations. Technical Proposal Development: Prepare proposals that outline equipment functionality, system scope, technical assumptions, exclusions, project deliverables, and estimated costs. Customer Collaboration: Work directly with customers, sales personnel, and internal engineering teams to clarify requirements, identify opportunities, and develop effective automation solutions. Cost Analysis: Obtain and evaluate pricing for components, purchased equipment, fabrication, controls, robotics, and other project requirements to develop accurate and competitive estimates. CAD and Conceptual Design: Review customer drawings and develop preliminary layouts, concepts, and equipment designs using CAD software as needed. Cross-Functional Coordination: Collaborate with mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, controls, manufacturing, purchasing, and project management teams to validate technical feasibility and project scope. Project Handoff: Communicate proposal details, assumptions, risks, and customer requirements to the project execution team following order acceptance. Continuous Improvement: Maintain estimating tools, quote documentation, and historical project cost data to improve the accuracy and consistency of future proposals.
Qualifications:
Experience in industrial automation, custom machinery, machine building, or a related manufacturing engineering environment. Demonstrated experience preparing technical quotations, cost estimates, and customer proposals. Experience reviewing and responding to RFPs, RFQs, and detailed customer specifications. Ability to interpret mechanical drawings, equipment layouts, technical documents, and manufacturing requirements. Understanding of industrial automation systems, including machinery, robotics, material handling, assembly equipment, or automated production processes. Familiarity with CAD software; SolidWorks experience is strongly preferred. Strong analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and project coordination skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain technical concepts to customers and internal stakeholders. Ability to manage multiple quotation opportunities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, Word, and Outlook.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with custom-designed automation equipment and engineered-to-order systems. Background in mechanical design, manufacturing engineering, applications engineering, or technical sales support. Experience developing equipment concepts, preliminary layouts, bills of materials, and labor estimates. Familiarity with PLC-controlled equipment, robotics, vision systems, pneumatics, and other common automation technologies. Experience working with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain pricing and validate technical requirements. Knowledge of project costing, estimating methodologies, and proposal risk assessment. Associate or bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechatronics, Engineering Technology, or a related field; equivalent practical experience will also be considered.
Key Competencies:
Technical aptitude and practical problem-solving Strong attention to detail and estimating accuracy Customer-focused mindset Effective communication and collaboration Commercial awareness and cost-conscious decision-making Ability to balance technical feasibility, project scope, and profitability Initiative and accountability in managing proposals from inquiry through submission Success in This Role Success in this position will be measured by the ability to develop accurate, competitive, and technically sound quotations; respond to RFPs and RFQs on time; understand customer applications and requirements; collaborate effectively across departments; and support the successful conversion of opportunities into profitable custom automation projects. Work Environment This position operates in a collaborative engineering and manufacturing environment, working closely with customers, sales, design engineering, controls engineering, and project management. Occasional customer visits and travel to manufacturing facilities may be required.
