Engineer II

Job DescriptionJob Description Position Summary: We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Application Engineer to serve as a critical technical and commercial bridge between our customers, vendors, and internal engineering teams. This role requires a unique combination of deep technical expertise in power generation, controls, and distribution systems, combined with exceptional communication skills and business acumen. The Application Engineer will be responsible for developing comprehensive technical proposals, cultivating strategic vendor relationships, engineering custom solutions, and serving as a trusted technical advisor to our clients.This is a high-impact position that requires both strategic thinking and hands-on technical capability. The ideal candidate will bring extensive industry experience and the ability to translate complex customer requirements into practical, cost-effective solutions that drive business growth. This position reports to the Vice President of Technology. Location: Houston, TX 77024 Essential Duties and Responsibilities:Lead the development of comprehensive technical and commercial proposals in response to RFPs, RFQs, and customer inquiries.Create detailed technical specifications, system architectures, and scope of work documents.Develop accurate cost estimates, budgets, and project schedules for proposed solutions.Prepare compelling technical proposals and participate in customer proposal reviews.Collaborate with sales, engineering, and operations teams to ensure proposal accuracy and feasibility.Manage proposal timelines and coordinate inputs from multiple stakeholders.Establish and maintain strong strategic relationships with key equipment vendors and manufacturers (ABB, Siemens, Rockwell Automation, Schneider Electric, Eaton, Danfoss).Negotiate pricing, lead times, technical specifications, and commercial terms with vendors.Stay current on emerging technologies, product releases, and industry trends from major suppliers.Evaluate and qualify new vendors and products for company standards.Coordinate vendor technical support as needed.Leverage vendor relationships to obtain competitive advantages and technical insights.Serve as primary technical contact for customer inquiries and requirements discussions.Conduct site visits to assess customer facilities, applications, and technical requirements.Analyze customer processes, challenges, and objectives to develop optimal solutions.Present technical solutions and recommendations to customers with clarity and confidence.Build and maintain strong customer relationships through responsive, professional communication.Provide technical guidance on VFD systems, motor controls, power distribution, and automation solutions.Apply electrical engineering principles to design and specify power systems solutions.Perform load calculations, motor sizing, and electrical system configuration.Interpret customer specifications, single-line diagrams, and technical drawings.Develop system layouts, equipment schedules, and interconnection diagrams.Ensure all proposed solutions comply with applicable codes and standards (NEC, IEEE, IEC).Provide technical support to project engineering teams during design and execution phases.Identify opportunities for value engineering and design optimization.Develop standardized solutions and product offerings for common applications.Create technical documentation, application notes, and selection guides.Participate in industry conferences, trade shows, and technical forums.Support business development initiatives with technical expertise and market intelligence.Conduct competitive analysis and provide feedback on market positioning.Work closely with sales teams to qualify leads and support customer acquisition.Coordinate with project management and engineering teams to ensure smooth project handoffs.Interface with procurement to ensure vendor compliance and timely equipment delivery.Provide input to product development and continuous improvement initiatives.Mentor junior engineers and share industry knowledge across the organization.QualificationsBachelor's degree in electrical engineering (preferred) or equivalent combination of technical education and significant industry experience will be considered.4-7 years of progressive experience in the power generation, power controls, and power distribution industry.Proven track record in application engineering, sales engineering, or technical project management roles.Demonstrated success in preparing and winning technical proposals and bids.Strong background in VFD systems, motor control solutions, and industrial power distribution.Desired experience working across multiple industrial sectors (oil & gas, petrochemical, water/wastewater, mining, power generation).Demonstrated experience in designing VFD systems, motor controls, and power distribution equipment.Background in project-based engineering with exposure to multiple project lifecycles.Solid understanding of electrical engineering fundamentals and power systems design principles.In-depth knowledge of VFD drives soft starters, motor control centers, PLCs, and SCADA systems.Strong familiarity with SCR drives, generator controls, switchgear, and medium voltage equipment.Proficiency in AutoCAD Electrical and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project).Understanding of NEC, NFPA 70E, IEEE, and IEC standards.Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings, P&IDs, specifications, and technical documentation.Experience with load analysis, motor sizing, and electrical system configuration.Established relationships with major control and VFD equipment manufacturers.Strong understanding of product lines from vendors such as ABB, Siemens, Rockwell Automation, Schneider Electric, Eaton, Danfoss, GE, and similar suppliers.Knowledge of market trends, competitive landscape, and emerging technologies.Familiarity with vendor pricing structures, lead times, and negotiation strategies.Exceptional Communication: Superior written and verbal communication skills with ability to present complex technical concepts to diverse audiences (customers, executives, technical teams).Business Acumen: Strong commercial awareness with ability to balance technical requirements with cost considerations and profitability.Negotiation Skills: Proven ability to negotiate favorable terms with vendors and navigate complex commercial discussions.Customer-Focused: Professional demeanor, strong interpersonal skills, and commitment to customer satisfaction.Problem-Solving: Analytical mindset with creative approach to developing innovative solutions.Self-Motivated: Proactive, independent worker with strong organizational and time management abilities.Adaptability: Comfortable managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.Collaboration: Team player with ability to work effectively across departments and organizational levels.Attention to Detail: Meticulous in proposal preparation, cost estimation, and technical documentation.Willingness to Travel: Available for domestic and occasional international travel (approximately 20%-30%).The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor. Equal Opportunity EmployerISS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.