Application Engineer I - Chicago

Founded in 1925, Festo Corporation is the leading worldwide supplier of automation technology and the performance leader in industrial training and education programs. For many years Festo has been providing impetus for factory automation and offers a wide product and service portfolio – from individual components to complex customized solutions and system. As a family-owned company, we act from a holistic perspective. We take responsibility for our actions globally and locally, we want to contribute to the quality of life and conservation of resources where we operate with new technologies, knowledge and education. At Festo, we hire people who continuously live our five core Values: We are Ambitious We are Determined We are Visionary We Value Each Other We are Dependable Summary: The Applications Engineer (AE) (Level I) provides engineering, product and application support, which includes engineering input for modifications to standard products to work in the customer’s application, as well as, conceptual proposals of machine design in the pre-sales phase, taking commercial considerations fully into account when proposing solutions. Additionally, AEs provide training and technical sales support. In this customer facing role, AEs are expected to spend 50% to 75% of their time visiting customers and making sales calls with Sales Representatives. AE’s provide commissioning services for new installations and conduct service calls until service department is staffed. Key Accountabilities: Provides technical support to sales and customers on specific applications and production processes in factory and process automation in addition to specific industry segments. Focus on commercial and technical feasibility of proposals, based on technical and application knowledge for the corresponding Industry/Technology Segment. Proposes customer specific solutions, in accordance with industry practices or specific customer specifications Responsible for specification lists for the specific industry segments (e.g. Project Books*) Maintains files consisting of technical data, application examples, competitor info, test data and additional information as needed. Creates Requirement Specification together with the customer. During the pre-sales phase acts as interface between customer and all relevant departments within Festo, always in coordination with the sales engineer. Provides technical training and arranges knowledge transfer to the customer for the relevant products/applications. Supports and provides PMM with products/applications requirements as input for Product Development Supports in Question of Norms, regulations. Assists in the identification and winning of projects based on application /automation/sector competence. Knowledge Transfer for Multiplication of Solutions. May serve as mentor for less experienced AE’s May oversee installation and performs commissioning in alignment with specifications and requirements). AEs will troubleshoot system failures by reviewing and recommending redesigns of schematic diagrams, in coordination with Festo Engineering Department and may modify computer operating software programs from existing programs, or may be required to support the implementation of new operating software programs based on the direction of Festo Engineering Department or the customer’s specifications Support of product introduction (training support, e.g. onsite training during commissioning) Writing of bug/failure reports Travel will be required for business reasons such as, training, customer sites/visits or a company business event. Identify standardized or custom applications and functional solutions and to develop application descriptions to fulfil the customer’s needs Discuss machine concepts to optimize machines, define specification and concept. Promote the use of new products and technologies that offer Festo greater competitive advantage. Drive the phase-out process by assisting in the transition of inactive products to newer products. Support the Product Segmentation Model through the selection of relevant products for solutions and actively give input to PMM for the program’s continue development Participate in different projects, different number of people, different duration of the projects Support, follow up and influence of the team members Knowledge transfer to team members and colleagues Experience / Education Preferred: Bachelor’s Degree, preferably in electrical, mechatronics engineering or mechanical engineering OR 2-4 years of relevant business experience necessary. Fluent in English MS Office Experience in project engineering or a similar role desirable 2 years of experience in the industry segment a plus (OEM) Experience in Quick Search Plus, Festo Part Data Manager Proficiency in Positioning Drives, HGO, CACOS, Part Data Manager, Fluid Draw The annual base pay range for this role is between $85,000 -$100,000. Benefits: Festo Corporation offers a robust benefits package, which is designed to help employees and their dependents stay healthy, feel secure and maintain a work/life balance. This is just one way we strive to provide employees with a rewarding workplace. As an effort to keep pace with healthcare trends, Festo Corporation is committed to providing a comprehensive benefits package to its employees which includes...Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending Programs, Short-term and Long-term disability, 401k, Pet Insurance, Paid Holidays, Paid time off, Educational assistance and many more. Festo is an equal opportunity employer. We believe that the best way to attract and retain a diverse workforce is to encourage a culture of inclusion within our organization. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.