Mechatronics Applications Engineer I

The Mechatronics Applications Engineer I will develop foundational skills in mechanical and electrical system design, machine costing, proposal development, and custom automation solutions. Working under the guidance of the Applications Manager and senior engineering team members, this role supports the quotation, design, and project development process for custom machinery and automation systems.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Quotation and Applications Engineering

• Review customer specifications and requirements to develop cost-effective mechanical, controls, and automation solutions.
• Support senior Applications Engineers throughout the complete project lifecycle, gaining exposure to all phases of project development.
• Prepare process flow diagrams, conceptual layouts, and technical clarification questions.
• Develop detailed estimates for engineering, software development, machine assembly, wiring, plumbing, debugging, installation, and acceptance testing activities.
• Review vendor quotations and internal cost estimates for accuracy and completeness.
• Maintain and update costing databases and cost libraries.
• Track and compare estimated project costs before and after peer review.
• Present proposed machine concepts and solutions to prospective customers when appropriate.

Documentation and Design Support

• Review project documentation for compliance with customer specifications and company standards.
• Create accurate 2D machine layouts and supporting 3D models as required.
• Perform tolerance analyses for assigned projects.
• Develop timing diagrams and sequence charts for motion-based assembly and testing operations.
• Assist in documenting and improving departmental processes and best practices.

Build-to-Print (BTP) Project Support

• Participate in estimating and review activities for Build-to-Print projects.
• Collaborate with fabrication and manufacturing teams to validate estimates and project requirements.
• Support estimating activities across all shop disciplines, including:
  • Mechanical assembly
  • Electrical wiring
  • Pneumatic and fluid plumbing
  • Machine debugging
  • Skid preparation
  • Equipment installation

Learning and Development

• Attend concept reviews, design meetings, customer calls, and team meetings.
• Participate in assembly floor walkthroughs to gain understanding of manufacturing and assembly processes.
• Observe machine debugging and testing activities to learn system functionality and labor requirements.
• Follow awarded projects through installation and commissioning whenever possible.
• Maintain a lessons-learned log and review findings with the Applications Manager on a regular basis.
• Study similar automation systems through available project documentation and videos.
• Seek guidance and mentorship from senior engineering team members.
• Stay informed on emerging automation technologies and industry trends.

Customer and Site Support

• Travel to customer facilities as required to gather project-critical information and support project development activities.
• Maintain compliance with all company and customer safety requirements and procedures.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Preferred GPA of 3.0 or higher.
• One to four years of experience in automation equipment, machine design, manufacturing, or a related industry.
• Working knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).

Communication Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical documents and procedures.
• Ability to prepare clear technical reports and documentation.
• Comfortable presenting technical concepts and cost information to customers and internal stakeholders.
• Strong listening, note-taking, and information-gathering skills.

Professional Characteristics

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage priorities and meet deadlines.
• Self-motivated with a desire to learn and grow within the automation industry.
• Team-oriented with a collaborative mindset.
• Customer-focused and committed to developing effective solutions.
• Receptive to coaching, mentorship, and constructive feedback.
• Ability to visualize and develop complex mechanical and electrical concepts.
• Willingness to travel as required.

Problem-Solving and Reasoning

• Ability to solve practical engineering problems with limited information.
• Capable of interpreting information presented in written, verbal, pictorial, and schedule formats.
• Able to work independently while applying established procedures and engineering judgment to new situations.

Computer Skills

• Proficiency with AutoCAD or equivalent 2D CAD software.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks or equivalent 3D CAD software.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.