Applications Engineer

The Opportunity:

JR Automation, a Hitachi Group Company, is driven to deliver customer success worldwide. We provide intelligent automated manufacturing and distribution technology solutions that transform how the world's leading manufacturers make and distribute products. Our strength is our people and we’re always looking to get stronger across North America, Europe, and Asia. Join us as an Applications Engineer II in Holland, MI as we work together to bring innovative automation solutions to life.

Location Type: This is a full-time salary position that is hybrid in Holland, MI

What We Offer:

• Competitive wages, medical benefits starting your first day, and paid parental leave
• Opportunity to work on customized, 1-of-1 automation projects
• A collaborative, engineering-driven environment
• Career growth and skill development opportunities
• A role where craftsmanship and quality truly matter
• Work with cutting edge and innovative technologies

Role Overview

The Applications Engineer II develops innovative, cost-effective automation solutions by translating customer technical requirements into system concepts, cost estimates, risk assessments, and comprehensive proposals. This role partners closely with Account Managers and cross-functional teams to create conceptual designs, define project scope, and ensure customer needs and competitive advantages are reflected throughout the proposal process. The Applications Engineer II facilitates concept reviews, quote package reviews, project kickoffs, and key project tollgates while helping ensure awarded projects remain aligned with the “as sold” scope. The position also provides opportunities to participate in customer presentations and travel alongside experienced team members. Ideal candidates will have a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field, at least two years of relevant industry/project experience, and strong knowledge of applications engineering processes and tools.

How You’ll Make an Impact:

• Reviewing customer technical specifications and requirements in preparation to knowledgeably develop System Concepts, Costs, Risk Assessments, and Proposal Documents that define the content and functionality of the proposed Scope of Work.
• Applying Practical Conformance to the JRA Corporate Practices, Procedures and Tools, specifically those developed for the use and function of the Applications Engineering Department
• Generating & Rendering Conceptual Solutions for Customer problems which may have no previous or standard solutions in various CAD formats.
• Facilitating Concept Brainstorming, leading docket review meetings with the support of a Level 3, Level 4, Lead, or AE Manager.
• Preparing & Scheduling Preliminary & Final, Internal & External Audience Quote Package Reviews. Such Reviews may consist of the following: Concept Solutions, Cycle Time Charts, Flow Charts, Risk Assessments, System Costs, proposed Delivery Schedule and potential Customer Requirements that demand audience-wide or management attention. Reviews shall be conducted with the support of Level 3 or higher AE’s.
• Developing Proposals that; clearly and completely defined the proposed Scope of Work, the Rate of Production, outlines the Machine Buy-off requirements, identifies Customer Part requirements thru all Project Phases, and includes appropriate Assumptions and Exceptions to the proposed Scope of Work.
• Supporting Account Managers by ensuring pain points and competitive advantages are leveraged into the Proposals.
• Traveling with a mentor or Account Manager
• Presenting to a Customer with the support of a mentor.
• Maintaining assignment-specific AE related fields in company CRM.
• Schedule and facilitate Project KickOff Meetings for PEP.
• Supporting functional team members associated with a project by facilitating required Tollgate Meetings for awarded work and consulting with the PM for scope variation.
• Attend early Phase Project Design Reviews to ensure conformance to “As Sold” Scope of Work

Note: This list of responsibilities is by no means inclusive; however, it is intended to be a guideline for activities.

What You’ll Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, or related field or equivalent of.
• Master’s degree Preferred
• 2+ years of industry experience leading successful projects.
• Competent in all Applications Engineering processes and tools.

Disclaimer: JR Automation requires candidates to successfully complete a 10-panel drug screen, physical examination, and background check.

Company Overview:

At JR Automation, A Hitachi Group Company, we discover potential, reimagine limits, and advance industry. When faced with a problem, we find a solution. Together, we push what’s possible to automate for tomorrow.

Join our team of 2,000+ at one of our 20+ facilities around the world and be a part of the most experienced team of advanced automation integrators.

Fueled by Possible.