Application Engineer
RB Royal - Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
OVERVIEW
The Application Engineer is a key member of the engineering & sales team, responsible for driving the development and deployment of fluid transfer products by blending technical engineering capabilities with direct customer engagement. This role serves as a bridge between Sales, Engineering, and Manufacturing, supporting new business opportunities while providing customized engineering solutions to meet customer specifications. This is a customer-facing role ideal for someone who enjoys both hands-on engineering and strategic customer interaction, contributing to the full product lifecycle from concept through production.
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES
Act as the technical lead in pre-sale and post-sale engineering support for new and existing customers.
Develop and design fluid system components and assemblies using SolidWorks or other 3D CAD tools.
Collaborate closely with customers and Sales to define product requirements, resolve technical questions, and propose viable solutions.
Research materials and design alternatives that meet performance, cost, and manufacturability goals.
Coordinate with Manufacturing and Quality teams to ensure design intent is met through production processes.
Prepare and review engineering documentation, drawings, and change orders (ECNs/ECRs).
Support quoting process by analyzing part design and providing manufacturability assessments and cost estimates.
Participate in prototype development and validation testing.
Assist in internal product development roadmaps based on market feedback and customer requirements.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
Education/Certifications/Experience
A Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline is preferred. However, candidates with an Associate's degree and relevant experience, or those with 4+ years of directly related on-the-job experience in a similar technical or engineering role, will also be considered.
Minimum of 4 years' experience in a design, applications, or sales engineering role within a manufacturing environment.
Strong technical acumen, particularly in mechanical design, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics.
Demonstrated ability to collaborate with customers on technical requirements and product development.
Proficiency in 3D modeling software (SolidWorks preferred) and MS Office tools.
Understanding of manufacturing methods such as machining, forming, brazing, or welding.
Ability to translate customer needs into practical design solutions with clear documentation.
Excellent communication skills and able to convey technical concepts to both engineering and non-engineering audiences.
Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Familiarity with ISO 9001 and quality improvement methodologies.
Experience in the automotive, agricultural, or industrial equipment sectors.
Experience with ERP systems (e.g., Plex or similar).
Exposure to project management tools and practices.
Previous experience working with tubing, fittings, and custom metal assemblies is highly desirable.