Position summary:
The Applications Engineer Co-Op provides support to the Applications Engineering team in the preparation and organization of technical information during the bidding and proposal phases of material handling projects.
This role assists in reviewing bid packages, verifying that all required documents are complete and aligned with scope, and helping maintain the accuracy and consistency of project data used in pricing and estimating.
The Co-Op will participate in technical discussions, record key points from meetings, and assist with document tracking, Excel data management, and AutoCAD drawing reviews.
This position offers a learning opportunity for students pursuing an engineering degree who are interested in gaining hands-on exposure to industrial controls, power design, and material handling automation.
Tasks
· Learn the fundamentals of material handling systems and electrical control architectures through direct involvement in live bid projects.
· Assist Applications Engineers in verifying that all documentation received matches the project scope and RFQ requirements.
· Track missing documents or open items and follow up with internal teams or vendors under the direction of the Applications Engineer.
· Participate in technical meetings, taking organized notes of key points, questions, and assumptions to be considered in the bid.
· Support the preparation of Excel-based estimating tools, cost summaries, and device count sheets.
· Assist with document organization and updates to bid dashboards, ensuring all files are current and named correctly.
· Review AutoCAD drawings for basic layout accuracy, tagging consistency, and coordination with motor manifests (no design or drafting required).
· Help identify and summarize key sections of specifications or RFQ documents related to electrical or controls scope.
Skills
· Excel Proficiency – Comfortable working with structured templates, formulas, and organized data entry; able to assist with power or device count sheets under guidance.
· AutoCAD Familiarity – Ability to open and review DWG drawings, locate conveyor tags and device callouts, and verify coordination with other bid documents.
· Reading Comprehension – Able to read and interpret RFQ documents, specifications, and equipment lists.
· Attention to Detail – Reviews documents and data carefully to prevent omissions or mismatched information in bids.
· Technical Communication – Writes clear and concise emails or notes to request missing information, summarize meeting outcomes, or document follow-ups.
· Organization and Information Management – Maintains well-structured file naming and version control to support the Applications Engineering team.
· Team Collaboration – Works closely with Applications Engineers and Sales to align scope understanding and bid documentation.
· Analytical Thinking – Demonstrates logical reasoning when reviewing documents or identifying inconsistencies.
· Initiative and Learning Mindset – Takes ownership of assigned tasks and seeks to understand the “why” behind engineering and estimating processes.
Attributes:
· Dependability and Ownership – Completes assigned reviews and tasks on time, ensuring information accuracy before submission.
· Proactive Communication – Provides timely updates on document status, missing information, and next steps.
· Adaptability – Adjusts to changing priorities and multiple concurrent bids.
· Professionalism – Maintains a positive attitude, shows respect in communication, and supports the team’s overall success.
· Curiosity and Growth – Demonstrates a genuine interest in learning about controls design, power systems, and material handling equipment.
· Information Organization – Keeps notes, folders, and records structured and easy for others to access.
Required Experience and Education:
Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related discipline
