Application Engineer

Key Responsibilities: Review customer requirements, drawings, specifications, and technical documentation to determine project needs. Develop preliminary concepts, layouts, and designs for custom aluminum cases and related products. Interpret and evaluate engineering drawings, CAD models, specifications, and other technical data. Support the preparation of accurate cost estimates, quotations, and proposals for custom products. Analyze material, labor, manufacturing processes, and other factors that influence product cost. Work closely with Engineering, Production, Estimating, and other internal teams to ensure designs are manufacturable and cost-effective. Apply knowledge of metal fabrication and manufacturing processes when developing product concepts. Use CAD software, ERP systems, and Excel to support design, estimating, quoting, and project activities. Provide technical support throughout the product lifecycle, from initial concept and quotation through production. Communicate with customers to clarify requirements, resolve technical questions, and present proposed solutions. Identify potential manufacturing challenges and recommend practical solutions. Maintain accurate technical and quoting information throughout the project process. Support continuous improvement of quoting, design, and manufacturing processes.

Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field preferred; equivalent engineering or manufacturing experience will also be considered. Experience in applications engineering, manufacturing engineering, mechanical design, or a similar technical role. Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, specifications, and CAD models. Proficiency with Solid Works or comparable 3D CAD software. Understanding of metal fabrication and manufacturing processes; experience with aluminum or sheet metal is highly desirable. Experience with quoting, estimating, costing, RFQs, or proposals is strongly preferred. Experience using an ERP/MRP system in a manufacturing environment. Strong Microsoft Excel skills and ability to work comfortably with technical and cost data. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and attention-to-detail skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Comfortable communicating technical information with customers and cross-functional teams. Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a high-mix, low-volume/custom manufacturing environment.