Advanced Application Engineer

In this role, you will be responsible for understanding complex customer needs and crafting elegant solutions that leverage Beckhoff technology. Reporting to the Advanced Applications Manager and working closely with the Product Management team and Regional Sales Teams, you will ensure that Beckhoff’s solutions are strategically aligned with customer goals. You will focus on innovation and the rapid deployment of proof-of-concept testing to secure key business opportunities, positioning Beckhoff as a leader in automation., Technical Consulting & Customer Solutions

• Serve as a technical resource for the Beckhoff U.S. sales force and Product Management team.
• Communicate effectively with internal and external customers to understand application requirements and demonstrate Beckhoff product capabilities.
• Develop and implement proof-of-concept hardware and software solutions to reduce technical risk for complex and advanced customer applications.

Product Development & Innovation

• Test beta software products and provide feedback to the product management team.
• Support the evaluation and improvement of Beckhoff products through hands-on testing and real-world application experience.
• Participate in special projects and initiatives that support product advancement and innovation.

Technical Expertise & Continuous Learning

• Build and maintain an advanced level of knowledge of Beckhoff products and related technologies.
• Embrace new challenges and continuously expand technical skills and expertise.
• Support the organization by applying technical knowledge to solve complex problems and address emerging customer needs.

Disclaimer: This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. The company reserves the right to modify duties or assign additional responsibilities as necessary to meet business needs. Other duties as assigned.

What Makes This Role Unique

• Best-in-Class Technology: Work hands-on with Beckhoff’s industry-leading automation platform, helping customers solve complex challenges through advanced controls, software, hardware, and integrated automation solutions.
• Innovation Through Application: Develop proof-of-concept hardware and software solutions that validate new ideas, reduce technical risk, and demonstrate the capabilities of emerging Beckhoff technologies., This position requires varying travel ranging from 15-30% which may include day trips, overnight stays, and occasional extended travel depending on business needs. Travel may be local, regional, or national. All travel-related expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with company policy. Candidates must be able to meet the travel requirements of the role, and reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

• University degree and/or College Technician/Technologist in electrical engineering, computer science, mechatronics or automation.
• Minimum 10 years’ relevant experience in automation: control theory, motion control, robotics, machine vision and mechatronics.

• Deep understanding of Beckhoff core technologies.

• Working knowledge of communication protocols and fieldbuses such as TCP/IP, MQTT, EtherCAT, CANopen, Ethernet/IP, and PROFINET.
• Demonstrated proficiency with one or more of the following:
• C/C++ or C# programming.
• Object Oriented Design and Programming Methodologies (OOP).
• MATLAB / Simulink.
• Web Programming technologies such as JavaScript, CSS and HTML5.
• Ability to handle multiple issues, prioritizing and effectively managing team resources.

• Excellent communication, analytical and presentation skills with the ability to present to clients, companywide, and/or departmental meetings.

• Excellent understanding of the customer decision process and key drivers., The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job, with or without reasonable accommodation:
• Ability to stand and sit for extended periods.
• Including the ability to drive in a car between 2 to 5 hours, one-way, multiple times a month.
• Ability to use a computer screen for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and move as needed to perform job duties.
• Manual dexterity for operating tools and equipment.
• Adequate vision and hearing to perform essential tasks safely.

At Beckhoff Automation USA, our privately held, family-owned culture empowers candid collaboration, the freedom to create innovative solutions, and strong relationships built around cutting-edge technology and shared purpose.

• Generous Paid Time Off + 12 Paid Holidays
• Employer paid High-Deductible Medical plan, Dental, and Vision for Employee + Family!
• 401(k) with up to 6% employer match
• Employer-Paid Insurance: Life, AD&D, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
• Elective Benefits: Accident, Critical Illness, Indemnity, and Pet Insurance
• Professional Development Opportunities
• CarData Program: Fixed monthly reimbursement + Variable monthly mileage
• Additional $200.00 to $800.00 (Disclaimer: dependent on location)

At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders – to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT, and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation.

As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity, and support for the people behind the automation. So, whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites, or developing fusion energy solutions - you can reach new heights for your business, industry, and humankind.