Senior Applications Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary:

The Senior Applications Engineer develops the technical concept and proposal for custom automation and assembly systems. Working from customer RFQ packages, this position creates system layouts, sequences of operations, equipment selections, and cycle-time estimates that form the basis of ACE’s proposals. The role works closely with sales, applications staff, engineering, and operations, and serves as a technical leader in team proposal reviews.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead development of the technical concept and proposal for custom automation, assembly, test, and machine-tending systems, typically in the $1–4M range and larger as experience with ACE grows.
• Receive, read, and analyze customer RFQ packages, specifications, part drawings, and facility layouts; identify customer requirements and gaps; work with sales and the customer to resolve open questions.
• Develop system concepts, including to-scale 2D layouts, process flow, and a station-by-station sequence of operations.
• Define equipment by station, including robot selection and sizing (payload, reach, speed), end-of-arm tooling, part presentation and handling, conveyance, vision, gaging/test, and guarding.
• Estimate cycle time and throughput for cells and systems; use Visual Components simulation as needed; help develop and maintain ACE’s standard cycle-time tools.
• Select key purchased components and technologies; direct vendor lineups and RFQs with support from applications staff.
• Provide the concept scope and estimates that feed the costing worksheet; favor standard purchased items over custom fabrication where practical.
• Produce customer-facing concept content, including layouts, concept images, simulations, and technical proposal sections.
• Present concepts in internal team reviews, and review other team members’ proposals before release.
• Mentor and provide technical direction to applications engineers and applications support staff.
• Participate in customer calls, lineup meetings, and site visits.
• For awarded projects, document concept intent for major components and support handoff to engineering and project kickoff.
• Research new and unfamiliar technologies required for new projects.
• Accurately record time worked in company time tracking software.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Skills:

• Expert in reading and interpreting engineering prints, customer specifications, and facility layouts.
• Proven ability to develop automation system concepts, layouts, and sequences of operations from an RFQ package.
• Working knowledge of industrial robots (FANUC or equivalent), end-of-arm tooling, part handling, conveyance, vision, gaging, and test technologies.
• Mechanical aptitude and understanding of electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic principles, and of controls and safety requirements for automated equipment.
• Proficient in 2D CAD (DraftSight, AutoCAD, or equivalent) for concept layouts.
• Cost-estimating ability for purchased components, custom fabrication, and engineering/build labor.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including presenting technical concepts to customers and management.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook).
• Ability to manage multiple proposals at once and meet deadlines and budgets.
• Ability to give and accept candid feedback in a team review setting.

Preferred Skills:

• 3D CAD (SolidWorks or equivalent).
• Visual Components or similar simulation software.
• Industry certification such as ASQ Certified Mechanical Inspector (CMI) or equivalent.

Education and Training Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Manufacturing Engineering or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience Required:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in application, proposal, or concept engineering for custom automation, assembly, gaging, or test equipment.

Company Description

Automation Controls and Engineering (ACE) is a growing, innovative automation manufacturing company specializing in custom turnkey automation solutions and integration. ACE provides tailored Automation Solutions that maximize efficiency and simplicity by leveraging technology and innovation.

Company Description

Automation Controls and Engineering (ACE) is a growing, innovative automation manufacturing company specializing in custom turnkey automation solutions and integration. ACE provides tailored Automation Solutions that maximize efficiency and simplicity by leveraging technology and innovation.