About Preco, LLC
Preco, LLC is a premier provider of material processing solutions. We are a leader in manufacturing custom industrial equipment and providing contract manufacturing services. As an Applications Engineer at Preco, you will play a critical technical role bridging the gap between our Sales and Operations teams, developing cutting-edge process solutions for Flatbed Die-Cutting Presses, Rotary Converting Presses, and custom system builds.
Job Summary
We are seeking an innovative, self-motivated Applications Engineer to design and execute test studies, support new sales opportunities, and oversee the technical execution of contract manufacturing programs. This is a dynamic, high-impact role involving hands-on machinery debugging, customer-facing technical consulting, and collaborative product roadmap development.
Key Responsibilities
- Sales & Customer Support: Provide technical expertise to the Sales team and prospective clients; review customer engineering drawings/specifications, evaluate tolerances, and suggest "outside-the-box" engineering solutions.
- Process Development & Testing: Design and execute test studies to develop optimized process solutions for customers using Preco machinery or Contract Manufacturing Services (CMS).
- Hands-on Machine Optimization: Operate and adjust industrial machinery during debugging phases. This includes utilizing HMI touchscreens, applying web handling mechanics, managing tool/roll handling equipment, and investigating material science behavior.
- Testing & Compliance: Perform and document Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT); specify required performance criteria for equipment sales and manage proposals.
- Project Collaboration: Work closely with the Engineering design team to review functionality, performance, and ease of use; communicate client feedback to inform our internal product roadmaps.
- Onboarding & Quality: Support the onboarding of new CMS programs by creating Bills of Materials (BOMs), Work Instructions, and routings. Train operators on setup and lead corrective action processes for quality issues.
- Industry Engagement: Attend manufacturing trade shows, conferences, and webinars to showcase Preco technology and stay ahead of competitive landscape trends.
Job Requirements & Qualifications
Education & Experience:
- Required: 4-year technical degree or equivalent industry experience.
- Preferred: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related field) with 2+ years of industrial experience.
- Strong, foundational knowledge of flatbed die-cutting processes, converting materials, and industrial equipment.
Technical Skills:
- Intermediate proficiency in AutoCAD and SolidWorks.
- Ability to read and interpret complex assembly drawings, mechanical prints, and GD&T.
- 3D printing experience is highly preferred.
- Knowledge of CMM inspection, statistical analysis, and basic electrical concepts is a plus.
Soft Skills & Travel:
- Exceptional customer-facing communication skills (written and verbal).
- Strong project driver who can effectively manage multiple projects autonomously in a self-directed environment.
- Willingness to travel domestically, with the potential for occasional international travel.
Physical Demands & Work Environment
- Frequent sitting, walking, standing, and viewing computer screens.
- Hands-on machine interaction, including occasional squatting, bending, kneeling, and fine manipulation.
- Ability to utilize tool and roll handling equipment to load/unload machinery, occasionally handling components up to 50 lbs.
- Frequent telephone and email communication with suppliers and customers.
Pay: $90,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule
- Parental leave
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
Work Location: In person
