Applications Engineer I

Kestrel Vision Group; Solon (OH); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Kestrel Vision Group in Solon, OH is seeking an Application Engineer to conceptualize, prototype, test, and validate electro-optical and electromechanical products for high-speed inspection systems within an international engineering environment.

You will collaborate with global teams to turn customer challenges into innovative technical solutions, conduct trials, analyze results, prepare reports, and support Sales and Service while traveling across domestic and international locations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field.
• 3+ years of relevant engineering experience.
• Hands-on prototyping experience from concepts or requirements.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and ability to work in cross-functional, international teams.
• Experience with machine vision or automated inspection is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct trials of existing and prototype solutions to validate performance against challenging customer samples.
• Analyze results and generate technical reports, including feasibility assessments and recommendations.
• Provide technical expertise and consultation to internal stakeholders and customers.
• Support Sales and Service teams in resolving technical issues, reviewing system configurations, and participating in customer visits across domestic and international locations.
• Collaborate with Production teams and external vendors to resolve technical challenges and maintain engineering documentation.
• Propose and develop new concepts and prototype solutions based on customer and market needs.
• Work closely with engineering teams around the world to integrate advanced inspection technologies into new and existing products.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and industry trends, acting as a technology scout within a rapidly evolving market.

Skills

Prototyping

Mechanical aptitude

Problem solving

Communication

Cross-functional teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Physics

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering

Masters degree in Engineering

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Job Description

Job Description

As an Application Engineer, you will be responsible for conceptualizing, prototyping, testing, and validating electro-optical and electromechanical products and subsystems used in high-speed inspection systems. Working within a collaborative and international engineering environment, you will transform customer challenges into innovative technical solutions while supporting the development of next-generation inspection technologies.

What You'll Do

• Conduct trials of existing and prototype solutions to validate performance against challenging customer samples.
• Analyze results and generate technical reports, including feasibility assessments and recommendations.
• Provide technical expertise and consultation to internal stakeholders and customers.
• Support Sales and Service teams in resolving technical issues, reviewing system configurations, and participating in customer visits across domestic and international locations.
• Collaborate with Production teams and external vendors to resolve technical challenges and maintain engineering documentation.
• Propose and develop new concepts and prototype solutions based on customer and market needs.
• Work closely with engineering teams around the world to integrate advanced inspection technologies into new and existing products.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and industry trends, acting as a technology scout within a rapidly evolving market.
• Take ownership of projects and drive them to completion with a strong focus on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 3+ years of relevant engineering experience.
• Hands-on experience prototyping equipment from concepts, sketches, or technical requirements.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively in cross-functional, international teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Engineering or related field.
• Experience with machine vision, imaging systems, or automated inspection technologies.
• Familiarity with material handling systems.
• Experience designing or developing electro-optical and electromechanical systems.

Why Join Us?

• Work on cutting-edge technologies used by global industry leaders.
• Collaborate with talented engineering teams across multiple countries.
• Contribute directly to innovative solutions that improve quality, safety, and efficiency in manufacturing.
• Enjoy opportunities for continuous learning, professional growth, and international exposure.

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We're an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.