Applications Engineer

The Applications Engineer & Estimator is responsible for designing and costing vertical storage solutions, including Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs) and horizontal/vertical carousel systems. This role works closely with sales, and engineering to develop space-efficient, ergonomic, and cost-effective storage solutions, translating operational requirements into engineered layouts and accurate proposals., Application Engineering (VLM & Carousel Focus)

• Evaluate customer requirements including:

• SKU profiles, part dimensions, and weights
• Storage density goals
• Pick frequency and workflow
• Ceiling height and building constraints

• Design optimized solutions using:

• Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs)
• Horizontal carousels
• Vertical carousels

• Perform storage capacity calculations and space utilization analysis.
• Develop system layouts showing equipment placement, operator access, and workflow integration.
• Recommend tray configurations, extractor sizing, and load capacities.
• Ensure ergonomic and safety considerations are incorporated into designs.
• Define system interfaces with:

• Pick-to-light / put-to-light systems
• Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
• Basic conveyor or goods-to-person interfaces (if applicable)

Estimating & Costing

• Prepare detailed cost estimates including:

• Equipment (machines, trays, carriers, controls)
• Installation and rigging
• Freight and packaging
• Engineering and commissioning

• Configure standard products using internal pricing/configuration tools.
• Identify and price options such as:

• Fire suppression integration
• Climate-controlled storage
• Specialty trays or carriers

• Maintain and improve costing templates for VLM and carousel product lines.
• Support margin analysis and pricing strategies.

Sales & Proposal Support

• Partner with sales team to develop tailored customer solutions.
• Generate proposal packages including:

• System descriptions and benefits
• Layout drawings (2D/3D)
• Capacity and performance summaries
• Budgetary and firm pricing

• Participate in customer calls, site visits, and technical presentations.
• Assist in RFQs and budget preparation

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Collaborate with:

• Mechanical engineering (for product constraints and customization)
• Controls/software teams (for interface requirements)
• Manufacturing (for feasibility and lead times)

• Provide clear handoff documentation to project engineering after order award.
• Support continuous improvement of:

• Standard designs
• Cost accuracy
• Proposal turnaround time

Work Environment

• Primarily office-based with occasional travel (10-20%) for:

• Site surveys
• Customer meetings

• Close collaboration with sales, engineering, and operations teams

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field (preferred)
• Equivalent experience in material handling considered
• 2-7+ years in:

• Material handling equipment (preferably VLMs, carousels, or shelving systems)
• Applications engineering, technical sales, or estimating

• Experience with space optimization or warehouse/storage solutions strongly preferred, + Vertical, horizontal storage systems (VLMs, carousels)

• Storage density and cube utilization calculations

• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, or similar)
• Experience with product configuration and costing tools
• Advanced Excel skills for:

• Cost modeling
• Capacity calculations

• Familiarity with:

• Basic controls and HMI systems
• WMS integration concepts (preferred)

Soft Skills

• Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking
• Ability to balance technical design with commercial considerations
• Excellent communication and customer-facing skills
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational abilities
• Ability to manage multiple proposals simultaneously under deadlines

Preferred / Nice-to-Have

• Experience with:

• Goods-to-person picking environments
• Lean warehousing or 5S initiatives

• Familiarity with OSHA safety considerations in equipment design
• Exposure to light automation integrations (pick-to-light, barcode systems)