Applications Engineer | Plainwell, MI

Salary Range: $78,000 - $118,000 depending on experience

Are you a skilled professional with a passion for excelling as a applications engineer? The Pivot Group Network, a Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to building meaningful connections in the manufacturing community. We collaborate with companies in the Plainwell area seeking experienced Applications Engineers.

We are building our network of talent in this field across Michigan's manufacturing regions. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

This posting covers Applications Engineer opportunities with manufacturers based in and around Plainwell in Allegan County, within about 30 minutes of the city, including Hope.

The Opportunity

We collaborate with manufacturing companies in the Plainwell region seeking Applications Engineers. These employers partner with us because they want real insight into candidates - not just resumes. By joining our network, you gain access to roles worth considering.

Usual Responsibilities

• Develop manufacturing processes, tooling plans, and work instructions for production.
• Support the sales team with technical questions and customer visits.
• Troubleshoot production issues and recommend changes to improve yield and cycle time.
• Coordinate with quality and production on first article inspections and corrective actions.
• Maintain engineering documentation such as prints, routings, and bills of material.
• Lead or support continuous improvement projects on the shop floor.
• Review customer drawings and specifications to confirm the product can be built as requested.
• Prepare cost estimates and technical proposals for new and repeat orders.

Recommended Qualifications

• Strong written and verbal communication skills for customer and internal contact.
• Working knowledge of machining, fabrication, or assembly processes.
• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, manufacturing, or industrial engineering or equivalent experience.
• Three or more years in a manufacturing or applications engineering role.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and material specifications.
• Experience with CAD software and ERP or MRP systems.

Bonus Qualifications

• Six Sigma or similar process improvement certification.
• Experience with CNC programming or CAM software.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing and root cause analysis tools.
• Project management experience on new product introductions.
• Background in a contract manufacturing or job shop environment.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Technical Sales Engineer, Estimator, Production Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Industrial Engineer, Field Applications Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer, Sales Engineer, Process Engineer, Product Engineer

Work Authorization

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future visa sponsorship. Visa sponsorship is not available.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out at https://www.thepivotgroup.org. The Pivot Group Network offers resources to support your search - market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.