Application Engineer

M1 Search Group; Buffalo Grove (IL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialized engineering firm in the United States is seeking an Applications Engineer to design and deliver custom automation solutions for manufacturing environments. You will collaborate with customers to understand their needs and support projects from concept to installation. The ideal candidate has over 5 years of experience in machine design and automation, possesses strong CAD skills with AutoCAD or SolidWorks, and has excellent communication abilities. Willingness to travel about 25% is required.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in custom automation, machine design, or manufacturing equipment build or service.
• Experience working with an automation systems integrator is strongly preferred.
• Background in applications engineering or solution development within automation.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop custom automation solutions based on customer requirements.
• Support projects from concept through handoff to operations.
• Create supporting documentation such as quotes, budgets, and technical layouts.

Skills

Custom automation solutions

Machine design

Strong CAD experience with AutoCAD

Strong communication skills

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, Mechatronics, or related field

Tools

AutoCAD

SolidWorks

Job description

This role is focused on designing and delivering custom automation solutions for manufacturing environments. You’ll work directly with customers to understand their process, develop engineered solutions, and support projects from concept through installation.

This is a true Applications Engineering role within factory automation. Candidates must have hands‑on experience with manufacturing equipment design, build, or integration.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Design and develop custom automation solutions based on customer requirements, including full system concepts and layouts.
• Review project inputs and apply practical engineering approaches to develop scalable, manufacturable solutions.
• Support projects from concept through handoff to operations, including oversight during build and installation phases.
• Create supporting documentation such as quotes, budgets, and technical layouts.
• Work directly with customers to understand applications, define scope, and present solutions.
• Serve as a technical resource internally, helping guide less experienced engineers when needed.
• Step into a leadership role when required to maintain project flow and team alignment.
• Travel to customer sites for meetings, project reviews, and system support as needed.

What we’re Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, Mechatronics, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of experience in custom automation, machine design, or manufacturing equipment build or service.
• Experience working with an automation systems integrator is strongly preferred.
• Strong CAD experience with AutoCAD and or SolidWorks.
• Background in applications engineering, cost estimating, or solution development within automation.
• Working knowledge of machine controls and how systems function in real‑world environments.
• Strong communication skills. Able to work directly with customers and internal teams.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and stay organized through different project phases.
• Willingness to travel approximately 25%. Local, overnight, and occasional extended travel.