What are the responsibilities and job description for the Design & Applications Support Engineer position at Proos?
Job Title: Design & Applications Support Engineer
Location: Byron Center, MI
Department: Engineering
Reports To: Engineering Manager
Summary
Join our team as a Design & Applications Support Engineer, a pivotal role that bridges mechanical design and customer-focused engineering. You’ll collaborate with our Mechanical Design team to develop innovative material handling solutions—including chute systems, automated workstations, and fully automated machines. You’ll also partner with our Applications Engineering and Commercial teams to create system concepts and accurate cost estimates, working closely with customers to bring their automation goals to life. A strong background in mechanical design, sheet metal fabrication, and material handling is highly valued.
Essential Functions
Design & Manufacturing Engineering
- Create 3D models, drawings, and specifications for sheet metal, machined, welded, and purchased components.
- Specify and design custom tooling, fixtures, and gages required for efficient manufacturing.
- Conduct product and process analysis to drive cost reductions, quality improvements, and manufacturability.
- Support the manufacturing launch of new or revised products
Applications Engineering, Cost Estimation & Solution Ideation
- Partner with sales teams and customers to understand requirements and propose innovative solutions for both sheet metal and automation projects.
- Develop and present concepts for custom material handling solutions, layouts, and process improvements.
- Prepare accurate cost estimates, including materials, labor, tooling, and automation equipment for quotations.
- Evaluate the feasibility of customer specifications and recommend design or process modifications.
- Support quotation development by providing technical input and manufacturability reviews.
- Contribute to the design of automated material handling solutions (conveyors, lifts, robotic integration, etc.).
Skills and Qualifications
Education:
- Associates degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering preferred (or equivalent experience).
Technical Expertise:
- Proficient in parametric modeling software such as Autodesk Inventor or SolidWorks.
- Experience with sheet metal fabrication, machining, welding, assembly, and custom material handling systems.
- Understanding of automation components (conveyors, lifts, sensors, actuators, robotics integration).
- Familiarity with industry standards such as ASME, ASTM, AWS, and ISO.
- Ability to prepare accurate cost estimates and identify cost drivers.
Soft Skills:
- Strong problem-solving and creative solution ideation skills.
- Ability to clearly communicate technical concepts to customers, sales teams, and internal stakeholders.
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple projects.
- Collaborative mindset with the ability to work across teams.
Other: Occasional travel to customer sites and suppliers may be required.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits
- A project based environment where you can see your designs come to life
- Opportunities for career growth and professional development
- A collaborative, solutions-driven work environment where innovation is encouraged