Applications Engineering Co-op

Diversified Automation, Inc.; Louisville (KY); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

Diversified Automation, Inc. is seeking an Applications Engineer Co-Op to support bid preparation for material handling projects. You will learn about electrical control architectures, review RFQ requirements, and help maintain project data used in pricing.

You will assist with Excel-based estimating tools, track documents, review AutoCAD drawings for layout alignment, and take part in technical meetings to capture key points and follow up on action items.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field.
• Assists in verifying bid documents and RFQ requirements.
• Maintains Excel-based estimating tools and bid dashboards.

Responsibilities

• Learn fundamentals of material handling systems and electrical control architectures.
• Verify documentation matches project scope and RFQ requirements.
• Track missing documents and follow up with internal teams.
• Participate in technical meetings and note key points.
• Support Excel estimating tools, cost summaries, and device count sheets.
• Assist with document updates to bid dashboards.
• Review Auto CAD drawings for layout accuracy and tagging coordination.
• Summarize key sections of specifications or RFQ documents.

Skills

Excel proficiency

AutoCAD familiarity

Reading comprehension

Attention to detail

Technical communication

Organization

Team collaboration

Analytical thinking

Initiative and learning mindset

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Mechatronics (in progress)

Tools

AutoCAD

Job description

Position summary: The Applications Engineer Co-Op provides support to the Applications Engineering team in the preparation and organization of technical information during the bidding and proposal phases of material handling projects. This role assists in reviewing bid packages, verifying that all required documents are complete and aligned with scope, and helping maintain the accuracy and consistency of project data used in pricing and estimating. The Co-Op will participate in technical discussions, record key points from meetings, and assist with document tracking, Excel data management, and AutoCAD drawing reviews. This position offers a learning opportunity for students pursuing an engineering degree who are interested in gaining hands-on exposure to industrial controls, power design, and material handling automation.

Tasks

• Learn the fundamentals of material handling systems and electrical control architectures through direct involvement in live bid projects.
• Assist Applications Engineers in verifying that all documentation received matches the project scope and RFQ requirements.
• Track missing documents or open items and follow up with internal teams or vendors under the direction of the Applications Engineer.
• Participate in technical meetings, taking organized notes of key points, questions, and assumptions to be considered in the bid.
• Support the preparation of Excel-based estimating tools, cost summaries, and device count sheets.
• Assist with document organization and updates to bid dashboards, ensuring all files are current and named correctly.
• Review AutoCAD drawings for basic layout accuracy, tagging consistency, and coordination with motor manifests (no design or drafting required).
• Help identify and summarize key sections of specifications or RFQ documents related to electrical or controls scope.

Skills

• Excel Proficiency – Comfortable working with structured templates, formulas, and organized data entry; able to assist with power or device count sheets under guidance.
• AutoCAD Familiarity – Ability to open and review DWG drawings, locate conveyor tags and device callouts, and verify coordination with other bid documents.
• Reading Comprehension – Able to read and interpret RFQ documents, specifications, and equipment lists.
• Attention to Detail – Reviews documents and data carefully to prevent omissions or mismatched information in bids.
• Technical Communication – Writes clear and concise emails or notes to request missing information, summarize meeting outcomes, or document follow-ups.
• Organization and Information Management – Maintains well-structured file naming and version control to support the Applications Engineering team.
• Team Collaboration – Works closely with Applications Engineers and Sales to align scope understanding and bid documentation.
• Analytical Thinking – Demonstrates logical reasoning when reviewing documents or identifying inconsistencies.
• Initiative and Learning Mindset – Takes ownership of assigned tasks and seeks to understand the \"why\" behind engineering and estimating processes.

Attributes

• Dependability and Ownership – Completes assigned reviews and tasks on time, ensuring information accuracy before submission.
• Proactive Communication – Provides timely updates on document status, missing information, and next steps.
• Adaptability – Adjusts to changing priorities and multiple concurrent bids.
• Professionalism – Maintains a positive attitude, shows respect in communication, and supports the team’s overall success.
• Curiosity and Growth – Demonstrates a genuine interest in learning about controls design, power systems, and material handling equipment.
• Information Organization – Keeps notes, folders, and records structured and easy for others to access.

Required Experience and Education

Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related discipline