Solutions Engineer

Phoenix Contact USA; Ann Arbor (MI); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

401k matching

Generous time off package

16 weeks paid maternity leave

10 weeks paid paternity leave

Job summary

A technology solutions company is seeking a Solutions Engineer in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This role is responsible for providing strategic technical consulting and project leadership in automation solutions. The ideal candidate should have a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field and at least 4 years of experience in industrial automation. Key responsibilities include mentoring, designing training programs, and offering pre-sales support. The company offers a comprehensive benefits package including 401k matching and paid parental leave.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years industrial automation experience.
• Industry specific controls system design and programming experience.
• Ability to meet deadlines and adjust to changing priorities.

Responsibilities

• Provide pre‑sales technical support and develop concept frameworks.
• Mentor Associate Solution Engineers and Product Management.
• Develop training materials for complex control system projects.

Skills

Industrial Ethernet Protocols: Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Motivated self-starter

Ability to set priorities

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or technical focus

Associate’s Technical Degree + equivalent experience

Job description

Solutions Engineer

Job Summary

The Solution Engineer/SE serve as strategic technical consultants and project leaders, supporting Automation Solutions sales, applied system development, and project initiatives across focused vertical markets. Operating with a high level of autonomy, SEs design, implement, and support advanced solutions that integrate Phoenix Contact’s complex technical products with third‑party components to meet specific customer or industry segment needs. These specialists interpret and translate customer specifications into functional concepts, delivering tailored application solutions that address operational challenges and align with industry best practices. Industries served include oil and gas, water/wastewater treatment, building automation, data centers, transportation infrastructure, electric power, automotive, and network & security. Solution Engineers are strategically positioned to drive innovation, organizational agility, and long‑term business value.

Responsibilities

• Develop an expert area of specialization (industry/technology) as directed by manager and attain related certifications.
• Mentor and advise Associate Solution Engineers, Technical Service, Product Engineering, and Product Management on product performance in the field and suggest design changes to improve product performance and customer satisfaction.
• Design training programs and training material to support complex control system projects.
• Develop advanced system testing and troubleshooting processes utilizing spectrum analyzers, storage scopes, power monitors, volt meters, and other required test equipment.
• Provide applied solution design and engineering support to the Control and Industry Solutions team.
• Independently qualify and gather input for designs through functional specification review or by direct customer interaction.
• Provide pre‑sales technical support and develop a concept framework based on customer requirements and industry standards and practices.
• Develop and implement test plans to validate proposed solutions.
• Develop and serve as technical lead on “proof of concept” or pilot applications.
• Provide project management as required, and advise project team on technical issues throughout the project lifecycle.
• Develop, implement, and provide on‑site installation start‑up support.
• Perform application demonstrations together with Phoenix Contact sales engineer and/or PSE at potential customer sites.
• Research and understand existing competitive and emerging products and technologies.
• Document and internally communicate data supporting the development of new products to meet focus market/customer requirements.
• Support the sales effort of Phoenix Contact’s complex technical products when positioned and sold as industry solutions at OEM, end‑user, and system integrator focused accounts within primary and supported market segments.
• Support Phoenix Contact field personnel and channel partners in technical aspects relating to the sale of systems and solutions.
• Develop and conduct control solution presentations and technology seminars to targeted audiences.
• Position Phoenix Contact as a technology leader through active involvement in industry related technical associations.
• Develop and maintain an expert understanding of industrial networking and communication technologies. Specific expertise in Industrial Ethernet Protocols: Profinet, Ethernet/IP, and Modbus TCP.
• Develop and maintain an expert working knowledge on all Phoenix Contact industrial products with specialized emphasis on IEC 61131 programming, industrial ethernet (wired and wireless), and networked I/O.
• Maintain knowledge proficiency through continued participation in industry trade events and conferences including active participation in presenting Phoenix Contact Case Studies, etc.
• Attendance and participation in accordance with corporate policies in local, national, and international meetings.

Qualifications

• Minimum Associate’s Technical Degree + equivalent experience. Bachelor’s degree in engineering or technical focus preferred.
• Minimum of 4 years industrial automation experience.
• Industry specific controls system design and programming experience.
• Motivated self‑starter with the ability to work autonomously and as part of a team.
• Ability to set priorities and perform simultaneous tasks.
• Ability to meet deadlines and adjust to changing priorities to meet business goals.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Effective interpersonal skills with comfort in delivering group presentations.

Essential Job Functions

• 35% Travel Requirement (2% - 5% Overseas).
• Must be able to lift 60 pounds.
• Must be able to sit and/or stand for extended periods of time (2-4 hours at a time).
• Must be able to work on a computer for extended periods of time (up to 4 hours at a time).
• Must be able to travel in vehicles (automobiles, trains, and planes) for up to 10 hours.
• Must be able to communicate effectively in verbal and written English.
• Must comply with company dress code guidelines.
• Punctuality and attendance in accordance with company policies.
• Timely reporting of expenses.
• Regular and on‑time attendance.
• This is a hybrid position requiring at least three days in the office, unless otherwise specified.

What’s in it for you?

Phoenix Contact offers a generous benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401k matching, and a generous time off package. There are also a wide variety of additional benefits available including 16 weeks fully paid maternity leave & 10 weeks fully paid paternity leave, life insurance, short & long‑term disability, assistance, and more!

Phoenix Contact is committed to the diversity of our employees. We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, veteran status, and family medical or genetic information.

If you need special accommodations to access job openings or to apply for a job, please call 717-944-1300 x3490 between the hours of 8 AM and 5 PM, Eastern Standard Time, Monday – Friday or email [e-mail].

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Engineering and Information Technology

Industries

Technology, Information and Internet