Application Engineer

About the role

This professional technical position is responsible for end-user concepting, technical planning, software/controls know-how, testing, field support, installation, and post-installation support throughout the life of automated equipment provided. Tasks include software and electrical controls to support interfaces with customer warehouse management software while directing operation of automatic storage & retrieval systems (AS/RS), automatic guided vehicles (AGV’s), and Powered Industrial Vehicles (PIT). Typical work includes advising automation applications, arranging renewal of software licenses, installing software and automation equipment at customer sites, training end-users, and working with sales specialists on applications, specifications, demonstrations, and general sales support. This role will learn a great deal about warehouse automation and quickly gain expertise in logistics.

Responsibilities

• Work with vendors and RW Sales to help develop estimates when needed
• Provide technical software sales support for Raymond West Systems Account Specialists, including customer visits, customer integration application specifications, designing route and rules for AGV, ASRS, and PIT, supporting setup of Regional Sales Managers/Specialists' laptops, and providing training on customer demonstrations
• Help Regional Managers generate Product Order Forms and Software Requirements Documents
• Install, implement, and train end-users on Power Pick Global, Supervisor software, and the Raymond iWarehouse Suite, including scheduling, training agendas based on customer needs, train-the-trainer concepts, operator training, and software configurations
• Maintain and implement customer software support renewals, including generating quotes, processing purchase orders, creating partner purchase orders (e.g., Kardex), and tracking Power Pick Global population within Raymond West's dealer territories
• Develop understanding of various controls architectures, related controls levels, and functionality of controls domains, inclusive of WMS and WCS integration
• Develop storage and automation design concepts based on customer operational requirements and data
• Apply substantial experience with planning, management, and execution of complex material handling systems
• Understand dynamic handling characteristics, constraints, and risks associated with a wide range of materials in complex material handling systems
• Apply knowledge of constraints and methods for defining and demonstrating equipment, subsystem, and system performance criteria
• Coordinate with General Contractors, Construction Managers, or owners regarding project execution responsibilities and impact
• Identify and develop proper team skills required for successful implementation of various products and subsystems in complex systems, inclusive of mechanical, controls, software, and installation
• Develop detailed project schedules inclusive of all in-scope engineering, installation, and integration activities as well as out-of-scope milestones by others impacting project execution, using MS Project
• Develop, define, and execute acceptance test plans inclusive of physical, function, rate, and availability testing
• Execute general processes associated with change control, approvals, and information exchange involving multiple stakeholders, both internal and external, particularly with a large number of subcontractors
• Coordinate execution of activities by internal resources and contractor resources, proactively recognizing issues requiring corrective action and impact on timely execution
• Cause team and organizational action to mitigate scope, schedule, and cost concerns both internally and with customers
• Coordinate on-site activities involving many contractors vying for the same space and time windows
• Interface with local code requirements including seismic, fire, and ADA

Qualifications

• Engineering background with over 5 years’ experience in application, design, and installation of mechanical systems or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science preferred
• Valid, unrestricted driver's license with no more than allowable number of points on record
• Must be able to be insured by Raymond West
• Must be able to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screen

Required skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and similar software
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Networks (Firewalls, anti-virus products, local administration, etc.)
• Working knowledge of Material Handling concepts, inventory control methods, and general knowledge of ERP/WMS systems
• Working knowledge or ability to quickly learn: Windows Basic System and Network Administration, Microsoft SQL Server, SQL Server Studio Manager, Oracle, SQL Scripts, Microsoft Access, Excel, Word, TeamViewer, Go to Assist, Webex, and other remote support products, and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
• Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with sales team, employees, co-workers, and managers in other departments
• Willingness to work off-hours as needs dictate and assume more responsibility as required
• Ability to demonstrate proficiency with AutoCAD, MS Word, Excel, Outlook, and Project
• Ability to perform systems design and layout including conveyor systems, AS/RS, shuttle systems, and other packaging equipment
• Experience in sales, support engineering, and contract preparation/administration
• Ability to scale and completely take off existing facilities as requested by Management
• Ability to perform duties under minimal supervision while responding to rapidly varying requirements
• Demonstrated drive and initiative with ability to maintain records of activities
• Willingness to comply with Employee Handbook
• Willingness to continually learn new products and policies
• Ability to manage time effectively and maintain an acceptable attendance record
• Willingness and ability to learn quickly and perform accurately and neatly with flexibility
• Ability to perform independently and as part of a team with Sales Representatives, suppliers, installers, and clients
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations
• Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables where only limited standardization exists
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form

Travel

50-60% (20-30 hours a week)

Physical requirements

• Sedentary and desk-bound position with prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Specific vision abilities required: close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus
• Occasionally required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
• Occasionally required to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds
• Frequently required to travel to job sites or other offices

Pay

$70,000 - $90,000

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401k with company match
• Flexible spending accounts
• Disability insurance
• Life insurance
• Personal time off
• Holiday pay