Application Engineer

Job Description

Application Engineer

Primary Focus

Estimating and technical scope development for electrical, automation, and controls work within Material Handling projects, combining deep system knowledge with estimating expertise to improve bid accuracy, risk mitigation, and margin performance.

Role Purpose

CCA is seeking an Applications Engineer with deep Material Handling industry knowledge to support our expanding U.S. operations. This role goes beyond preparing take-offs and running estimating software. The Applications Engineer understands how material handling systems are installed, integrated, and commissioned, and brings real-world system knowledge that improves bid accuracy, reduces risk, and protects margin.

Core Accountabilities

• Develop detailed cost estimates for electrical, automation, and controls scopes within material handling projects.
• Perform comprehensive quantity take-offs for materials, labor, programming, commissioning, and subcontracted services.
• Develop competitive and defensible bid proposals.
• Interpret RFQs, tender packages, control narratives, P&IDs, electrical drawings, and specifications from a constructability perspective.
• Anticipate access constraints, installation sequencing challenges, integration risks, and commissioning complexities.
• Identify scope gaps, unclear specifications, and cost exposure risks.
• Collaborate with Sales, Engineering, Operations, and Project Management to validate execution assumptions.
• Lead bid review discussions and support project handoffs.
• Coordinate with vendors and subcontractors for pricing and technical alignment.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of estimating standards and cost databases.
• Travel within the U.S. and Canada for customer meetings and site visits when necessary.

Qualifications

• 7+ years estimating electrical, automation, or industrial systems.
• Significant experience within the Material Handling industry (conveyor systems, sortation, ASRS, warehouse automation, distribution centers).
• Strong understanding of PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, instrumentation, control panels, and industrial power distribution.
• Ability to interpret electrical schematics and control architecture drawings.
• Working knowledge of U.S. NEC (required).
• Proven ability to assess project risk and pricing strategy.
• Prior field experience (installation, commissioning, supervision, or project management).
• Experience supporting design-build or EPC-style projects.
• Familiarity with Accubid or comparable estimating software.
• Experience working with large distribution or automated warehouse environments.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
• 401(k) contribution program
• Remote flexibility (U.S. based)
• Opportunity to help shape and elevate our U.S. estimating function
• Career growth within a fast-growing organization