Applications Engineer

Job Description

Applications Engineer - Custom Automation

Compensation: Up to $115,000 (based on experience)

An established custom automation company is looking for an Applications Engineer to support technically complex automation projects from early concept through handoff to engineering and operations. This role sits at the intersection of sales, engineering, and operations, translating customer requirements into practical, cost-effective automation solutions.

If you enjoy solving problems, defining solutions before a machine is ever built, and working closely with both customers and internal teams, this role will be a strong fit.

What You'll Be Doing

• Provide technical support to the sales team during quoting, concept development, and customer discussions
• Review and interpret customer specifications, SOWs, contract documents, and assembly/component prints
• Develop technical concepts and automation solutions aligned with customer requirements
• Identify technical risks, assumptions, and exceptions and clearly document them
• Ensure concepts are technically sound, feasible, and aligned with company standards
• Prepare and maintain accurate cost estimates, including identifying high-cost or long-lead components
• Work with vendors to obtain component pricing and technical input
• Support customer visits, presentations, and virtual meetings as needed
• Maintain project activity, time tracking, and updates within the CRM system
• Coordinate technical and financial project reviews
• Support Operations as projects move into design and build phases
• Maintain costing databases and ensure documentation (Project Binders) is completed on time
• Ensure compliance with ISO 9000 procedures
• Collaborate with other internal Applications and Sales teams as needed

What They're Looking For

• Associate degree required; Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline preferred
• Hands-on experience with machine design and automation concepts
• Familiarity with assembly automation, including manual, automated, and robotic operations
• Proficiency with 2D and 3D CAD tools (SolidWorks preferred)
• Comfortable working with spreadsheets, documentation, and costing tools
• Strong communication skills with the ability to bridge sales and engineering
• Willingness to travel occasionally (~5%)
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform occasional physical activities related to the role

Why This Role

• Work on custom, non-cookie-cutter automation projects
• High visibility role with strong interaction across sales, engineering, and operations
• Opportunity to influence solutions early-before designs are locked in
• Competitive compensation up to $115K
• Stable, engineering-driven automation environment

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Meet Your Recruiter

Ric Delgado
Team Lead and Principal Recruiter

Ric is a Team Lead and Principal Recruiter at Sterling Engineering with more than a decade of technical recruiting experience, including over eight years with Sterling. In his role, he leads recruiting efforts while also working hands-on with clients and candidates throughout the full hiring process.

From sourcing hard-to-find technical talent to navigating offer negotiations, Ric focuses on creating strong, lasting matches that benefit both the individual and the organization. His approach is built on understanding technical environments, listening closely to hiring needs and career goals, and aligning the right people with the right opportunities.

Ric enjoys recruiting because of the meaningful impact it can have on someone's career. Whether helping a candidate pursue a growth opportunity, improve work-life balance, or step into a leadership role, he is driven by the opportunity to support people through important career decisions. At the same time, he takes pride in helping companies build high-performing teams that move their business forward.

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Connect on LinkedIn


About Westbrook, ME

Discover your next career opportunity in charming Westbrook, Maine! With its picturesque waterfront views, vibrant arts scene, and close proximity to Portland, Westbrook offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Imagine working just a stone's throw away from iconic landmarks like the Westbrook Riverwalk and the charming shops of downtown. Indulge in delicious Maine lobster and seafood cuisine, catch a show at the Westbrook Performing Arts Center, or cheer for the Portland Sea Dogs at Hadlock Field. Explore our job listings today and unlock the endless possibilities for personal and professional growth in Westbrook, Maine.