Fluid Power Specialist Development Program

Role Overview

Applied Industrial Technologies® and the Applied Fluid Power® network provide dedicated fluid‑power support and custom‑designed solutions that keep industry running. The Hydraulic/Pneumatic Specialist Trainee program develops knowledge of hydraulic and pneumatic solutions, troubleshooting systems, and basic customer‑management skills to prepare participants for a Fluid Power Specialist role. Trainees spend most of their time in virtual and in‑person training, shadowing current specialists, and working behind the scenes to answer technical questions and solve real‑world issues while building relationships with customers across an assigned territory.

Core Responsibilities

• Develop hydraulic & pneumatic component, system, and troubleshooting knowledge through training and supervised hands‑on problem solving.
• Develop customer presence as a technical consultant/trusted advisor through supervised observational visits.
• Assist development of the Fluid Power collaborative knowledge base, including applications, interchanges, case histories, documented value‑added activities, market activities, and competitor activities.
• Assist further refinement of the developmental program to increase effectiveness for future participants.

Position Requirements

• 2‑year technical degree and/or experience working with technical products while pursuing a 2‑year or 4‑year degree.
• General mechanical aptitude (mechanical experience a plus).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with solid English grammar.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to clearly communicate technical thoughts and solutions to multiple levels.
• Demonstrated self‑starter attitude with a sense of urgency, bias for action, and ability to execute remotely.
• Organizational and time‑management skills.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
• Willingness to relocate for the Fluid Power Specialist role after the development program.
• Preferred internship or related work experience in a customer‑facing role (e.g., sales or customer service), especially with exposure to hydraulic and/or pneumatic components.
• Ability to read and understand technical drawings and system schematics.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office and remote collaboration tools (e.g., video conferencing).

Desired Characteristics

• A desire and passion to learn and grow skills.
• Highly developed listening and questioning abilities.
• Interest in understanding new products, industry trends, processes, and systems.
• Strong desire to build a career focused on value‑added problem solving.
• Results‑oriented, detail‑focused, and good time‑management skills.
• Potential to assume leadership roles in the future.

Company Overview

Founded in 1923, Applied Industrial Technologies (NYSE: AIT) is a leading value‑added distributor and technical solutions provider of industrial motion, fluid power, flow control, automation technologies, and related maintenance supplies. The company serves MRO and OEM end users across virtually all industrial markets through multi‑channel capabilities that provide choice, convenience, and expertise.