Sales Application Engineer

GENERAL SUMMARY: The Sales Application Engineer provides the critical role of understanding customer needs and connecting them with the right product in the HME portfolio.   This person is responsible for supporting the dealer and working with the customer during the sales process and into the precon and build.  They will also be responsible for reviewing pre-sale proposals, pricing special options, drawing reviews, processing and reviewing customer contracts, processing change orders, providing a high level of customer service to both internal and external customers. This position is located in the corporate office in Wyoming, MI and is responsible for helping to deliver high-quality apparatus with the end result being a satisfied customer to include the dealer, sales reps and ultimately the end user. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The following reflects the essential functions for this position but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned based upon changing business conditions.  

• Meet with customers and dealers as necessary to answer technical questions about the product and help them identify the right product and options for their needs and department operating procedures. 
• Utilize knowledge of various truck configurations, engineering practices, mathematics, materials, and other physical sciences to complete drawings for review of (AutoCAD) files that develop sales drawing layouts for the quoting process
• Review of detailed multi-view SolidWorks drawings of trucks, components and special applications as required
• Evaluate, translate and communicate quote /order customer requirements - working with our quote software (currently Quote Writer) 
• Lead internal /external reviews, evaluations, and improvement initiatives to ensure best practices to provide clear and consistent communications, process and tool training with the sales distribution and management
• Develops and maintains an effective ongoing working knowledge of the companies and client’s systems and processes
• Assist in the role of special pricing where required
• Assist dealers with needs to develop specs, quotes and bids
• Process customer change orders and internal change requests
• Attend pre-build meetings with dealer as needed
• Perform necessary calculations for estimated weight and balances of the proposed layout and identify concerns as needed to alter the layout to a workable solution
• Represent HME Ahrens-Fox at industry shows and events, some travel as required
• Interact with distribution network and sales reps as necessary
• Provide input to product development team concerning potential design improvements

 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Bachelor’s Degree preferred
• 2-5 years either in Sales/Application Engineering and/or engineering disciplines
• Ability to analyze, evaluate and provide feasibility reviews to optimize processing and build efficiencies 
• Industry experience or fire fighting background

 

REQUIRED SKILLS:

• Detail oriented with strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills: both written and verbal.
• Excellent time management skills and strong organizational skills.
• Thorough understanding of the production manufacturing operations and design integration for manufacturability.
• Energetic, motivated, team player.
• Professional office environnement (étiquette and attire) 
• Ability to communicate/negotiate effectively
• High degree of business aptitude, open-mindedness and willingness to negotiate/communicate to optimize the end product
• Strong organizational, problem solving and analytical skill sets

 

PREFERRED SKILLS:

• Detailed knowledge in all areas of the apparatus, specifically structural design but also electrical and plumbing

The ability to obtain a CDL and pass the DOT medical examiner’s certification within one year of hire is preferred

Heavy duty automotive/truck experience a plus, but not a requirement

 

WORK AREA:

Work will be conducted in a general office environment

The associate will be required to enter the production area from time to time to perform duties

 

HME is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides equal employment and advancement opportunities to all employees and applicants. HME prohibits discrimination in employment opportunities or employment practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex/gender (including pregnancy), national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, protected genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state, or federal law