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
Lead Technical Recruiter

Ric Delgado is a seasoned Principal Recruiter primarily focusing on the Automation Division at Sterling. With a distinguished tenure of over five years at Sterling and an impressive career spanning more than a decade in the recruiting field, Ric is a respected and accomplished professional in talent acquisition.

As a Principal Recruiter, Ric draws upon his extensive experience to excel in the Automation Division. His in-depth understanding of this dynamic industry enables him to connect talented individuals with exciting and fulfilling job opportunities expertly. Ric plays a pivotal role in helping candidates find new positions, advance in their careers, and achieve their professional goals.

Ric's passion for positively impacting individuals' lives through career advancement is the driving force behind his dedication to recruitment. He takes immense pride in his role as a professional growth and development facilitator, understanding the pivotal role a career change can play in a person's life journey.

He firmly believes in continuously updating one's skills and knowledge to stay competitive in any field. His commitment to personal and professional development not only enhances his own expertise but also positions him as a valuable resource for candidates seeking guidance in their career journeys.

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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.

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