Senior Application Engineer

Senior Application Engineer at Talent Reel Senior Application Engineer at Talent Reel in Utica, Michigan Posted in 1 day ago.

Type:

full-time

Job Description:

About the Role We're seeking an experienced Applications Engineer / Estimator to lead technical quoting and concept development for large-scale automation systems supporting propulsion manufacturing (engines, transmissions, axles, EV/hybrid systems). This is a high-impact, front-end engineering role focused on building accurate, competitive proposals for complex assembly and test equipment-not detailed design work. You'll be involved from early customer discussions through RFQ, concept development, and final quote delivery. What You'll Do Lead end-to-end quoting activities for automation systems (typically $2M-$40M projects) Interpret RFQs and customer concepts to develop technically sound, cost-accurate proposals Define system concepts including: Assembly lines Test equipment Conveyor systems Presses, PLCs, HMIs, and related automation Ensure cycle time, throughput, and takt time assumptions are accurate Collaborate with internal teams (engineering, purchasing, suppliers) to build complete quotes Participate in customer meetings and confidently present/defend technical concepts Support internal handoff to execution teams post-award What You Bring Strong background in manufacturing automation or propulsion systems , such as: Transmissions, engines, axles, or EV/hybrid systems Experience in process engineering, systems engineering, or applications engineering Understanding of how to design or assemble production systems (not just CAD/design work) Ability to evaluate technical feasibility and system concepts Exposure to quoting, estimating, or pre-sales engineering (preferred, not required) Comfortable working cross-functionally and interacting with customers

Note:

An engineering degree is helpful but not required -relevant hands-on experience is equally valued. What Makes This Role Unique Work on high-value, complex systems (up to $40M+) Be part of a growing organization with significant revenue expansion plans Gain exposure across traditional, hybrid, and EV technologies High visibility: work closely with leadership (minimal hierarchy) Opportunity to shape concepts that directly win business I deal Backgrounds Candidates may come from: Automation integrators (e.g., KUKA, ABB, JR Automation, etc.) OEMs or suppliers (GM, Ford, Magna, American Axle, etc.) Process or manufacturing engineering roles with equipment sourcing experience Engineers looking to transition into technical sales / applications / estimating