Automotive Application Engineer Structural Adhesives

3M; Minnesota; Hybrid; USD 75,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

3M is seeking an Automotive Application Engineer for Structural Adhesives. This role involves collaboration with product development teams to drive innovative solutions in adhesive technologies for the automotive sector. Responsibilities include leading application development, training clients, and guiding multidisciplinary teams.

The ideal candidate will possess a bachelor's degree, technical support experience, and effective problem-solving skills. The position is located at the 3M Center in Maplewood, MN, with travel requirements up to 50% and potential relocation assistance.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years of technical support experience in sales and/or application engineering.
• Current, valid driver's license and vehicle history review for company vehicle use.

Responsibilities

• Lead the application development lifecycle including ideation and validation.
• Collaborate with product development team to design new adhesives.
• Provide application support and training to customers.
• Guide multiple teams for successful application implementation.
• Analyze data from field trials and present findings.

Skills

Technical support experience

Problem-solving skills

Documentation skills

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher

Master's degree in Engineering or Chemistry (preferred)

Job description

Automotive Application Engineer Structural Adhesives

This role collaborates with product development teams to drive the next generation of structural adhesives for the automotive industry.

Responsibilities

• Lead the application development lifecycle: ideation, documentation, feasibility analysis, and validation.
• Collaborate closely with the product development team to design new adhesives.
• Guide multiple teams—including marketing, external industry partners, and customers—to ensure successful application implementation.
• Provide application support and training to customers, including in‑person visits and media development.
• Lead field trials and internal testing, analyze data, and present findings to stakeholders.
• Stay ahead of pending changes to industry standards, regulations, and best practices.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher (completed and verified prior to start).
• At least 3 years of technical support experience in sales and/or application engineering.
• Current, valid driver’s license and pre‑employment vehicle history review for company vehicle use.

Additional Qualifications & Skills

• Master’s degree in Engineering or Chemistry preferred.
• 5 or more years of technical support experience in sales and/or application engineering.
• Strong people skills, ability to influence, collaborate, and work with cross‑functional teams.
• Excellent documentation and presentation skills.
• Strong problem‑solving, troubleshooting, and hands‑on testing abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and accommodate changing circumstances.
• Experience with adhesive joining techniques for battery pack and BIW assembly.
• Background in adhesive dispensing technologies and associated validation testing.

Company Vehicle

This position requires driving a company vehicle, subject to pre‑employment and ongoing vehicle history review.

Work Location

Work at least four days a week at the 3M Center in Maplewood, MN or Livonia, MI.

Travel

Travel may include up to 50% domestic or international.

Relocation

Relocation may be authorized if necessary.

Legal Requirements

Must be legally authorized to work in the country of employment without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B).

Safety and Compliance

All employees are expected to comply with corporate policies, procedures, and security standards, and to contribute to a strong Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) culture.

Equal Employment Opportunity

3M does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.