Senior Application Engineer- Conveyance Solutions

Dürr AG; Southfield (MI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Southfield, Michigan, seeks an Applications Engineer specializing in conveyance solutions for automotive assembly. The role involves supporting Sales and Engineering in developing technical proposals and cost estimates for conveyor systems. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline and over 3 years of relevant experience. Strong skills in AutoCAD, cost estimation, and effective communication are essential. The position may require occasional travel, including internationally.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience with automotive applications and conveyor systems.
• Strong computer skills including AutoCAD.
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents.

Responsibilities

• Develop accurate technical proposals and cost estimates for conveyor systems.
• Analyze customer RFQs and define technical requirements.
• Create comprehensive proposal packages including technical documentation.

Skills

AutoCAD

Microsoft Office

Cost estimation

Hydraulics knowledge

Pneumatics knowledge

Mechanical systems understanding

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline

Job description

Your Tasks:

• We have an exciting opportunity for an Applications Engineer specializing in conveyance solutions for automotive assembly plants. In this role, you will be pivotal in supporting Sales, Product Line Management, and Engineering by developing accurate technical proposals and cost estimates for customer RFQs, with a focus on conveyor systems. You will translate customer requirements into innovative, efficient conveyance concepts and support internal and global partners throughout the proposal and order-acceptance process.

• Technical & Engineering Support

• Analyze customer Requests for Quotes (RFQs) and define technical requirements for conveyance systems in automotive assembly environments.
• Develop complete layout and conveyor system concepts, aligning customer needs with industry standards and best practices along with cost competitive Durr alternative solutions.
• Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of various conveyor types commonly used in automotive assembly, such as skillet platforms, drag chain conveyors, modular chain conveyors, overhead electrified monorail systems (EMS), AGVs, rollerbeds, turntables, elevators, and cross transfer cars.
• Collaborate with Engineering on feasibility reviews,
• Prepare cost estimates for the design, engineering, procurement, manufacturing, and installation of conveyor systems, considering both standard and custom solutions.
• Create comprehensive proposal packages, including system descriptions, technical documentation, and feasibility evaluations.
• Conduct site surveys and interface with customers and suppliers to ensure proposed solutions meet operational and safety requirements.
• Ability to travel to customer or supplier sites, including international travel, as required.

• Sales & Product Line Collaboration

• Support Sales and Product Line Managers during customer line-ups and technical discussions, providing expertise on conveyance solutions.
• Review customer specifications and provide technical recommendations for conveyor system selection and integration.
• Participate in order-acceptance evaluations, ensuring all conveyance requirements are addressed.
• Assist in preparing “as-sold” documentation for internal meetings and project turnover.
• Provide prompt applications-engineering information to Project Managers for smooth project execution.

• Cross-Functional & Global Coordination

• Obtain fixed supplier quotations for major conveyor components and systems.
• Coordinate with Operations to determine budgets and schedules from purchase order receipt through installation/start-up.
• Support multiple divisions with sales and technical liaison services, contributing to the definition of modular product systems for the North American market.
• Maintain organized technical resources, including drawings, correspondence, and documentation related to conveyance projects.

Your Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline or equivalent experience in Mechanical, Controls, Machine Tool, or Applications Engineering.
• Preferred: 3+ years of experience with machine-specific and/or automotive applications, particularly in the design and implementation of conveyor systems for automotive assembly plants.
• Strong computer skills, including AutoCAD and Microsoft Office.
• Working knowledge of hydraulics, pneumatics, physics, mathematics, machine design, electronic controls, and mechanical systems as they relate to conveyance solutions.
• Ability to read and interpret part prints, and automotive inquiry packages, with a focus on conveyor system layouts and integration.
• Demonstrated experience in cost estimation for the full lifecycle of conveyor systems: design, engineering, procurement, manufacturing, and installation.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail and discipline in following established processes.