Applications Engineer

Socket.dev; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401k savings

Annual bonus potential

Paid time off

Wellness programs

Job summary

Powell in Houston is seeking an Applications Engineer to transform customer specifications into cost-effective proposals. You will read electrical drawings, interpret schematics, and communicate technical details to Sales and Engineering teams.

The role requires strong communication, CAD skills (AutoCAD/Inventor/Visio), and experience with ERP and project software to support cost estimates and product enhancements.

Qualifications

• Build & maintain knowledge of electrical theory & standards (IEEE/ANSI, NEC, IBC, NFPA).
• Ability to read electrical specs and drawings (single-line, three-line, schematics).
• Proven experience in proposal development and cost estimation.

Responsibilities

• Review customer specifications for feasibility of Powell manufacture or supply.
• Read and interpret electrical drawings and control schematics.
• Translate designs into proposals and ensure optimized solutions for Powell and customer.
• Act as internal technical resource for Sales and Applications Engineering staff.
• Assist in developing formal internal proposals including budgets and cost justifications.

Skills

Electrical theory

Electrical drawings interpretation

Reading specifications

Communication

Independent work

Education

B.S. in Electrical Engineering

2+ years related experience

Tools

AutoCAD

Inventor

Visio

Oracle ERP

Primavera/Microsoft Projects

Excel

Job description

As a global manufacturer, we utilize our Core Values: Customer First, Respect for our Employees, Continuous Improvement and “Can-Do” Attitude, to solve our customers’ toughest problems.

Job Summary – Responsibilities:

• Independently review customer supplied specifications to assess feasibility of Powell manufacture or supply.
• Read and interpret electrical drawings to include: single-lines, three-lines, elevations, control schematics, site plans and electrical enclosure layouts.
• Proactively anticipate highly complex application concerns prior to development of proposal.
• Translate conceptual customer designs into a meaningful proposal.
• Generate accurate proposals based on the review and interpretation of customer supplied documentation
• Ensure that proposed solution is best optimized for Powell and the customer.
• Utilizing independent judgment and decision making, creatively address customer application concerns at the proposal stage and communicate these concerns effectively to Powell Sales and/or customer.
• Perform competitive evaluation of sub vendor proposals used to complete the overall Powell offering.
• Act as an internal technical resource for Sales and Application engineering staff.
• Interact with other Powell divisions to develop cross business solutions.
• Assist in providing feedback for, and maintaining accuracy of various costing tools.
• Other duties as assigned.

Secondary Responsibilities (performed but not regularly):

• Perform analytical or competitive studies as required.
• Participate in sales and marketing activities to include industry meetings and conferences.
• Contribute to new and existing product specifications.
• Assist in developing formal internal formal proposals including technical budget estimates and cost justification models for product line enhancements and/or cost out projects.
• Participate in executing cost out initiatives in conjunction with Engineering and Operations.

Key Functions:

• Prepare detailed, accurate and cost competitive proposals - 90%
• Participating in external customer meetings and/or conferences – 10%

Job Requirements

Knowledge / Skill:

• Build and maintain a working knowledge of electrical theory and applicable industry standards including IEEE/ANSI, NEC, IBC and NFPA. Especially as related to low & medium voltage distribution equipment, and substation design.
• Familiarity with low & medium voltage distribution equipment ratings and design
• Ability to read and interpret electrical specifications
• Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings to include single lines, three lines, schematics and wiring diagrams
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Customer Oriented
• Able to manage multiple priorities
• Prioritizes and plans work activities; uses time efficiently; plans for additional resources; sets goals and objectives; develops realistic action plans in order to meet deadlines.
• Problem Solving: Gathers and analyzes information using inquisitive mind, using strong logical, methodical and systematic skills
• Work independently with little or no supervision
• Ability to learn new skills and assume new responsibilities
• Visio / Auto CAD / Inventor
• Microsoft Office Suite

Qualifications:

• B.S. in Electrical Engineering or relevant discipline
• o2+ years of experience in related field with BS in Electrical Engineering
• Computer Skills: AutoCAD; ERP system Oracle; Microsoft Office Suite; previous experience utilizing Projects related software (ie. - Primavera, Microsoft Projects, Excel and Oracle) with the ability to learn new software programs
• Satisfactory background check
• Satisfactory drug test results.

Performance Metrics:

The role of Applications Engineer is critical in securing new business for Powell. The Applications Engineer is primarily measured on accuracy of the proposals generated by the individual, and on time performance (OTP). Performing with a high degree of accuracy and on time performance is a critical element to the continued success of Powell by contributing directly to the company top level goals of revenue and gross margin.In our 75+ year history, Powell has always known that our employees are at the heart of our success. Without question, we have the most talented people in all parts of our organization. As a manufacturer, we recruit and hire experienced and knowledgeable applicants to ensure our product is engineered, fabricated, and assembled to customer specifications! Powell’s culture has and will always be founded in our "can do" attitude. If we can imagine it, we can do it. Become a part of our story and let us help you write yours. Hard work pays off in all our teams, with opportunity for advancement and promotion without sacrificing work-life balance. Successful candidates must have a legal authorization to work in the United States on a full-time basis, with only those candidates selected for interview contacted. Powell offers comprehensive health insurance for you and your family, 401k savings, annual bonus potential, generous paid time off, professional development opportunities, company-sponsored wellness programs, and a collaborative work environment. EOE Protected Veterans/Disability If you need an accommodation in the hiring process, you may contact 713.378.2685. Application status inquiries will not be accepted in this manner.