Applications Engineer

Milwaukee, Wisconsin or Aurora, Ohio

Applications Engineer

We are seeking an experienced Applications Engineer to lead the front end of project development for custom industrial equipment. This role focuses on developing system concepts, preparing technical proposals, and creating accurate cost estimates for custom equipment solutions. The ideal candidate has a strong engineering background, excellent customer-facing communication skills, and the ability to translate customer requirements into practical, cost-effective solutions.

Core Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Requirements: Meet with customers to review specifications, RFQs, drawings, and technical requirements to define equipment and system needs.

• Concept Development: Create innovative system concepts and equipment layouts tailored to new applications and custom opportunities.

• Estimating & Proposals: Prepare comprehensive project scopes, technical proposals, and accurate cost estimates using historical data, comparable systems, vendor quotes, and engineering judgment.

• Risk Assessment: Identify project risks, assumptions, exclusions, and technical requirements early in the quotation process.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing, Controls, and Service teams to validate proposed solutions, costs, and project handoffs.

• Sales Support: Serve as a technical resource alongside the sales team during customer meetings, proposal reviews, and complex technical discussions.

Candidate Profile

Basic Qualifications:

• Ideally 8+ years of experience in custom equipment, applications engineering, estimating, engineering, or related industrial equipment fields.

• Bachelor's or Associate degree in Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.

• Strong knowledge of custom industrial equipment, system-level design, and mechanical aptitude.

• Working knowledge of electrical and controls systems.

• Proven experience estimating equipment, fabrication, purchased components, engineering, and installation costs.

• Excellent customer-facing communication and technical presentation skills.

• Ability to interpret technical specifications and identify scope gaps.

• Willingness to travel occasionally for customer visits and site evaluations.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range of $130,000–$150,000.

• Full-time, exempt position.

• Location options in Milwaukee, WI or Aurora, OH.

• Opportunity to lead the critical front-end phase of custom engineering projects, driving solutions from concept through proposal.