Fluid Power Specialist Development Program

About the role

As the world’s largest fluid power distributor, Applied Industrial Technologies® and the Applied Fluid Power® network provide dedicated fluid power support and custom‑designed solutions that meet customer performance goals and keep industry running. A Hydraulic/Pneumatic Specialist Trainee develops knowledge of hydraulic and pneumatic solutions, troubleshooting systems, and basic customer‑management skills to step into a Fluid Power Specialist role. The trainee spends the majority of time in virtual and in‑person training, shadowing current Specialists, and working behind the scenes to answer technical questions and solve real‑world issues. This role serves as a business‑development partner with Applied’s customer‑facing Account Managers, acting as a local technical expert building relationships with existing and new customers throughout an assigned territory. The position has a direct impact on customers’ and Applied Industrial Technologies’ business results. These positions are nationwide.

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 to customers.
• 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 those who follow.

Position Requirements

• 2‑year technical degree or experience working with technical products.
• General mechanical aptitude (mechanical experience a plus).
• Strong written & verbal communication and English grammar skills.
• Ability to work effectively independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to clearly communicate technical thoughts and solutions to multiple levels.
• Demonstrated self‑starter skills with a sense of urgency, a bias for action, and ability to execute remotely.
• Organizational and time‑management skills.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
• 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 MS 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 skills.
• Ability and desire to understand new products, industry trends, processes, and systems.
• Strong desire to build a career focused on value‑added problem solving.
• Results‑oriented, attention to detail, and good time‑management skills.
• Potential to fill 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. Its leading brands, specialized services, and comprehensive knowledge serve MRO and OEM end users across virtually all industrial markets through multi‑channel capabilities that provide choice, convenience, and expertise. Applied Industrial Technologies is built on a philosophy that puts people first. The company is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to fair treatment and growth opportunities for everyone.