Application Engineer

About the role

This on-site Applications Engineer role focuses on generating engineered solution quotations for custom workholding and related mechanical solutions. You will use engineering calculations, CAD models, and layouts to develop technical proposals that align with customer requirements and existing manufacturing capabilities. By applying a consultative approach, you will influence customer decision-making, help them apply products and services to their specific needs, and ensure solutions are safe, profitable, and aligned with company standards. You will estimate and record cost, selling price, and delivery dates in the ERP system, manage risk for custom tooling, and provide clear, well-documented proposals to customers and internal stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with Inside Sales, Regional Sales, Sales Representatives, and customers to understand application needs and deliver effective technical solutions.
• Analyze product specifications and application requirements to design engineered solutions that are compatible with existing manufacturing processes and capabilities.
• Prepare detailed proposals, quotations, and supporting documentation for engineered workholding and related mechanical solutions.
• Serve as a technical expert on company products, providing technical presentations and sales proposals to customers and stakeholders.
• Create concept drawings, perform engineering calculations, and develop CAD designs to meet project requirements and customer expectations.
• Maintain, organize, and update engineering CAD files and technical data to ensure accuracy, traceability, and easy accessibility.
• Work directly with customers to evaluate applications, identify improvement opportunities, and provide timely technical feedback and recommendations.
• Stay informed on industry trends, new technologies, and product updates to support business development and enhance solution offerings.
• Communicate effectively with internal teams and leadership, ensuring timely resolution of technical and commercial issues and completion of required documentation.
• Estimate and record the cost, selling price, and delivery date of engineered solutions, and generate bids in the ERP system.
• Determine risk management for custom tooling and limit exposure to unsafe or unprofitable engineered solutions.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives, including participation in corrective and preventive action (CAPA) processes.
• Adhere to company policies, safety standards, and quality requirements in all engineering and quotation activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering, specifically Mechanical Engineering or Manufacturing Engineering, or an equivalent associate degree in a related field.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of related experience in a corporate environment.
• Strong mechanical engineering experiences in mechanical design and engineered solutions.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software for creating concept drawings and detailed designs.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings, including GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing).
• Experience with quoting, proposals, and cost estimation for engineered solutions.
• Ability to use a variety of measuring equipment and gauges to verify dimensions and ensure quality.
• Demonstrated technical skills with a commitment to continuous learning and sharing expertise with others.
• Strong focus on quality, with the ability to monitor work, apply feedback, and identify ways to improve and promote quality.
• Strategic thinking skills, including the ability to analyze market and competition, identify external threats and opportunities, and adapt strategies to changing conditions.
• Effective planning and organizing skills, including prioritizing work, using time efficiently, planning for resources, and developing realistic action plans.
• Ability to follow organizational policies and procedures, complete administrative tasks accurately and on time, and support organizational goals.
• High ethical standards, including treating people with respect, working with integrity, and upholding organizational values.

Qualifications

• Experience working in a sales-support or applications engineering role within a corporate environment.
• Experience in workholding, tooling, or related mechanical systems.
• Comfort presenting technical information to customers and internal stakeholders.
• Experience using ERP systems to generate bids, record costs, and manage quotations.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including sales, engineering, and leadership.
• Proactive approach to professional development, including pursuing training and development opportunities.
• Experience participating in continuous improvement initiatives, including CAPA processes.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust, communicate clearly, and support a collaborative culture.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Hoffman Estates, IL. This is a fully onsite position in Hoffman Estates, IL.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $31.25 - $36.05/hr.

Benefits

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)