Application Engineer

Applications Engineer – Custom Automation

Location: Milwaukee, WI

Compensation: $70,000–$100,000 base salary, depending on experience, plus performance-based bonus

About the Opportunity

A custom automation and robotic systems manufacturer is seeking an Applications Engineer to develop equipment concepts, cost estimates, and technical proposals for manufacturing customers.

This role takes customer requirements and turns them into practical automation solutions before a project is awarded. Working closely with technical leadership, you will determine how a system should function, develop preliminary layouts, identify the required equipment and processes, and estimate the cost to build it.

Mechanical engineers with custom machinery design experience who want to move into applications engineering are encouraged to apply. Previous applications or quoting experience is valuable but is not required.

Key Responsibilities

• Review customer RFQs, specifications, parts, and manufacturing requirements to understand project objectives.
• Develop concepts for custom machinery, robotic systems, automated assembly equipment, and production lines.
• Create preliminary 3D equipment layouts and concept models using SolidWorks or similar CAD software.
• Identify the processes, components, tooling, and equipment needed to deliver a practical automation solution.
• Collaborate with internal engineering teams, suppliers, and technical specialists to evaluate feasibility and select appropriate technologies.
• Prepare cost estimates covering purchased equipment, materials, fabrication, assembly labor, and engineering time.
• Write technical proposals explaining system operation, project scope, and proposed equipment.
• Review concepts, estimates, and proposals with technical leadership.
• Support customer discussions and occasionally prepare presentations explaining proposed solutions.
• Take ownership of technical questions and research unfamiliar processes to develop informed recommendations.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering; Mechanical Engineering preferred. Electrical Engineering and related engineering degrees will also be considered.
• At least two years of relevant experience in custom machinery, automation equipment design, or applications engineering.
• Experience using 3D CAD software; SolidWorks strongly preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and an understanding of how machinery and manufacturing equipment function.
• Ability to develop practical mechanical solutions from customer requirements.
• Resourcefulness and the ability to work independently while collaborating with technical experts.
• Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Applications engineering, equipment quoting, or proposal development experience within automation or robotics.
• Experience with robotic systems, automated assembly, motion control, or custom production lines.
• Automotive manufacturing or welding automation experience.
• Experience developing equipment concepts, cost estimates, and technical presentations.
• Previous customer interaction or technical sales support experience.

Ideal Candidate

You enjoy figuring out how machines work and turning an open-ended manufacturing challenge into a workable equipment concept. You are comfortable asking questions, researching unfamiliar processes, and working with specialists to develop a solution.

Compensation

• Base salary of $70,000–$100,000, depending on experience.
• Candidates earlier in their careers will generally fall within the $70,000–$80,000 range, with experienced candidates considered up to $100,000.
• Performance-based bonus opportunity. Annual bonuses have historically been approximately 10% over the past five years, based on company and individual performance; payouts are not guaranteed.