Applications Engineer - Process Control

Process Distribution Group; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Valin Corporation in Portland, OR seeks an Applications Engineer - Process Control to be the primary technical resource for the field sales force and to actively drive and manage the technology evaluation stage of the sales process.

You will collaborate with customers, sales and field service to develop industry-leading process solutions, perform sizing calculations, and support startups and troubleshooting.

Qualifications

• BS or MS in mechanical engineering, controls engineering or related field.
• Familiarity with instrumentation, controls and electrical component selection.
• Strong verbal and written communications.
• Strong analytical, design and problem-solving skills.
• Read blueprints and understand electrical/mechanical control systems.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; CAD familiarity.

Responsibilities

• Maintain expert level of product knowledge and applications.
• Provide rapid response to customer RFQs with sales and service teams.
• Visit customer sites to perform needs analysis and develop best-in-class systems.
• Perform valve and instrument sizing calculations and process modeling.
• Articulate technology and product positioning to business and technical users.
• Provide hands-on and remote support for system startup and troubleshooting.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Verbal & written communication

Project management

Problem solving

Office software

CAD familiarity

Networking basics

Education

BS or MS in mechanical engineering or controls engineering

Tools

CAD

Microsoft Office

Networking/computer systems

Job description

The Applications Engineer - Process Control is the primary technical resource for the field sales force and is responsible for actively driving and managing the technology evaluation stage of the sales process. Working in conjunction with the sales team as the key technical advisor and product advocate, the Applications Engineer must be able to identify and provide reliable solutions for all technical issues to assure complete customer satisfaction through all stages of the sales process. The Applications Engineer must be able to establish and maintain strong relationships throughout the sales cycle. S/he will also collaborate extensively with customers, sales, and field service personnel to conceive and develop industry leading process solutions.

Job Responsibilities

• Maintain expert level of product knowledge and applications.
• Work with the account management and customer service teams to provide rapid response to customer RFQ’s.
• Visit customer sites with sales and field service personnel and participate in needs analysis, spec development and problem solving, to enable development of best-in-class systems offerings that leverage Valin’s capabilities.
• Perform valve and instrument sizing calculations and customer process modeling.
• Articulate technology and product positioning to both business and technical users.
• Listen, understand and convey customer requirements.
• Perform technical/ product training for salespeople, estimators, and engineers at targeted accounts.
• Provide hands‑on and remote support for system startup and troubleshooting.
• Provide status of ongoing projects and future projects.
• Identify customer's needs and sales opportunities to help future growth
• Take an active role in Valin’s effort to develop best-in-class systems documentation including Manuals, cause and effect diagrams, control narratives.
• Receive mentorship and training from senior engineers, and actively participate in organizational learning and knowledge sharing.

Education, Experience and Skills Required

• B.S. or MS in mechanical engineering, controls engineering or related field.
• Prefer 1-3 years’ experience in engineering and/or sales or support of technical industrial products.
• Familiarity with instrumentation, controls and electrical component selection.
• Must have a structured and organized work approach.
• Strong verbal and written communications.
• Strong analytical, design and problem-solving skills.
• Read architectural, mechanical, and electrical blueprints and have a solid understanding of electrical and mechanical control systems
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Familiarity with CAD and networked computer systems.
• Ability to manage projects and communicate effectively with internal and external

Compensation Details

The expected rate of pay for this position is starting at $70,000 - $90,000 annually depending on experience.

Why should you join Valin Corporation?

At Valin, we pride ourselves on providing complex and tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of our customers. Our commitment to excellence and innovation sets us apart in the industry, making us a leader in delivering impactful results.

What truly makes us special is our workplace culture. We foster an environment that is collaborative, respectful, and inviting. Here, your voice is heard, your ideas are valued, and your contributions make a real difference. Our team thrives on open communication and mutual support, creating a space where everyone can achieve their best.

Valin defines its value in the marketplace through innovation in business practices, a commitment to developing people, and the creation of unique service models for the benefit of our shareholders, customers, suppliers, and community. Our commitment to excellence, the embrace of responsibility, and honest accountability establishes our legacy of achievement that defines us as one of the best managed companies in wholesale distribution.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Vet/Disabled

Valin Corporation, a subsidiary of Graybar, is the leading technical solutions provider for the technology, energy, life sciences, natural resources, and transportation industries. For 50 years, Valin has offered personalized order management, on‑site field support, comprehensive training, and applied expert engineering services utilizing automation, fluid management, precision measurement, process heating, and filtration products.