Application Engineer
RB Royal - Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
OVERVIEW
The Application Engineer is a key member of the engineering & sales team, responsible for driving the development and deployment of fluid transfer products by blending technical engineering capabilities with direct customer engagement. This role serves as a bridge between Sales, Engineering, and Manufacturing, supporting new business opportunities while providing customized engineering solutions to meet customer specifications. This is a customer-facing role ideal for someone who enjoys both hands-on engineering and strategic customer interaction, contributing to the full product lifecycle from concept through production.
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES
- Act as the technical lead in pre-sale and post-sale engineering support for new and existing customers.
- Develop and design fluid system components and assemblies using SolidWorks or other 3D CAD tools.
- Collaborate closely with customers and Sales to define product requirements, resolve technical questions, and propose viable solutions.
- Research materials and design alternatives that meet performance, cost, and manufacturability goals.
- Coordinate with Manufacturing and Quality teams to ensure design intent is met through production processes.
- Prepare and review engineering documentation, drawings, and change orders (ECNs/ECRs).
- Support quoting process by analyzing part design and providing manufacturability assessments and cost estimates.
- Participate in prototype development and validation testing.
- Assist in internal product development roadmaps based on market feedback and customer requirements.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
Education/Certifications/Experience
- A Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline is preferred. However, candidates with an Associate's degree and relevant experience, or those with 4+ years of directly related on-the-job experience in a similar technical or engineering role, will also be considered.
- Minimum of 4 years' experience in a design, applications, or sales engineering role within a manufacturing environment.
- Strong technical acumen, particularly in mechanical design, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate with customers on technical requirements and product development.
- Proficiency in 3D modeling software (SolidWorks preferred) and MS Office tools.
- Understanding of manufacturing methods such as machining, forming, brazing, or welding.
- Ability to translate customer needs into practical design solutions with clear documentation.
- Excellent communication skills and able to convey technical concepts to both engineering and non-engineering audiences.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Familiarity with ISO 9001 and quality improvement methodologies.
- Experience in the automotive, agricultural, or industrial equipment sectors.
- Experience with ERP systems (e.g., Plex or similar).
- Exposure to project management tools and practices.
- Previous experience working with tubing, fittings, and custom metal assemblies is highly desirable.