Automation Applications Engineer

Valin Corporation; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Valin Corporation is seeking an Application Engineer to design and implement motion control and automation solutions for semiconductor, biotech, and advanced manufacturing sectors. You will bridge customers, suppliers, and internal teams to deliver high-performance systems.

You will design systems (motors, drives, stages, controllers), quote and propose solutions, and support projects from design through commissioning, including programming and training.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field.
• Strong understanding of automation systems, motion control, or electromechanical design.
• Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly.
• Experience managing multiple projects and meeting deadlines.
• Basic programming and software knowledge.
• Experience with motion control systems, PLCs, and industrial automation preferred.
• Familiarity with programming languages (C++, Python, .NET) preferred.
• Experience in semiconductor, biotech, or high-tech manufacturing environments preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop motion control and automation systems (motors, drives, stages, controllers).
• Partner with sales engineers to support customer-facing technical discussions and solution development.
• Translate customer requirements into engineered solutions, bills of materials, and proposals.
• Support the full project lifecycle: pre-sales to post-sales (troubleshooting/commissioning).
• Configure and program automation components using vendor tools.
• Provide technical training and support to customers and internal teams.
• Work closely with suppliers to select and apply the right technologies.
• Create documentation, drawings, and tools to streamline quoting and project execution.
• Stay current on automation technologies, competitor products, and market trends.
• Contribute technical expertise to marketing content and product positioning.

Skills

Automation systems

Motion control

Electromechanical design

Communication skills

Project management

Programming basics

C++

Python

Industrial automation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

PLC programming

Vendor tools

Automation software

Job description

As an Application Engineer in Valin's Automation Group, you will support customers and sales teams by designing and implementing motion control and automation solutions. You will act as the technical bridge between customers, suppliers, and internal teams - helping deliver high-performance systems for industries like semiconductor, biotech, and advanced manufacturing.

In this role you will:

• Design and develop motion control and automation systems (motors, drives, stages, controllers)

• Partner with sales engineers to support customer-facing technical discussions and solution development

• Translate customer requirements into engineered solutions, bills of materials, and proposals

• Support the full project lifecycle: pre-sales (design/quoting) to post-sales (troubleshooting/commissioning)

• Configure and program automation components using vendor tools

• Provide technical training and support to customers and internal teams

• Work closely with suppliers to select and apply the right technologies

• Create documentation, drawings, and tools to streamline quoting and project execution

• Stay current on automation technologies, competitor products, and market trends

• Contribute technical expertise to marketing content and product positioning

What you bring to the table:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field (or equivalent experience)

• Strong understanding of automation systems, motion control, or electromechanical design

• Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly

• Experience managing multiple projects and meeting deadlines

• Basic programming and software knowledge

• Experience with motion control systems, PLCs, and industrial automation preferred

• Familiarity with programming languages (e.g., C++, Python, .NET) preferred

• Experience in semiconductor, biotech, or high-tech manufacturing environments preferred

Compensation Details:

The expected starting rate of pay for this position is $100,000 annually, depending on experience. This position is also incentive eligible, based on specific and relevant business metrics.

Work Environment:

Combination of office work and customer/site visits, with hands-on involvement in system testing and troubleshooting.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals occupying this position of employment. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skill required of all individuals assigned to this job title. Management reserves the right to modify all or part of this job description at its discretion in order to meet location requirements, staffing levels, and/or any other needs of the business. All of the essential functions of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act and/or equivalent state law, may not have been described. All requests for reasonable accommodation(s) will be reviewed and evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

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