Mechanical Applications Engineer - South Orange County, CA

Job Description This is a direct hire opportunity.The Mechanical Applications Engineer serves as the primary technical resource for the sales team, focusing on applying products to real-world customer needs rather than developing new designs. This is a hands-on role that requires strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and the ability to work across multiple projects simultaneously.In a small company environment, this position requires a team-oriented mindset and a willingness to wear multiple hats by supporting sales, customers, and internal teams to ensure successful product application and implementation.This is not a pure design role; instead, it emphasizes practical engineering, troubleshooting, and customer-focused solutions.The pay is $80,000 – $110,000 annually based on experience.No relocation.ResponsibilitiesPrimary:Serve as the technical liaison between customers, sales, and suppliersEvaluate customer requirements and recommend practical product solutionsRespond to technical and functional elements of RFQsTroubleshoot and resolve real-world application and performance issuesSupport product implementation including installation, setup, and trainingTravel to customer sites as needed for hands-on support and problem resolutionMaintain accurate records of projects, quotes, and customer interactionsHands-On / Practical Engineering:Review drawings and specifications to ensure proper product applicationAssist with basic CAD work and documentation to support customer needsPerform basic analysis or validation (including FEA when needed)Work closely with internal teams to solve manufacturing or application challengesProvide input on improvements based on field experience and customer feedbackAdditional:Manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environmentCollaborate closely with a small, cross-functional teamBuild strong, professional relationships with customers and partnersSupport ongoing projects while identifying new opportunities for growthQualifications Required:BS in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or equivalent experience5–20+ years of experience in applications engineering, field engineering, or similar hands-on rolesStrong mechanical aptitude and real-world problem-solving abilityAbility to manage multiple projects and shifting prioritiesWorking knowledge of CAD (AutoCAD preferred) for support purposesAbility to read and interpret mechanical and electrical drawingsStrong communication and interpersonal skillsWillingness to travelPreferred:Experience in hands-on troubleshooting, field support, or manufacturing environmentsComfortable working in a small company setting with broad responsibilitiesTeam-oriented mindset with a willingness to pitch where neededFamiliarity with ISO 9001, QA/QC tools, and inspection equipmentBasic machining or shop experienceCompany Description PrideStaff South Orange County Mission Viejo works with local businesses to source, interview and recruit candidates for temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct-hire staffing in the areas of office and administrative support, customer service, accounting, light industrial, skilled, and general labor. We serve the South Orange County cities of Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, San Clemente, Laguna Hills, Aliso Viejo, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Niguel and other coastal communities. Company Description PrideStaff South Orange County Mission Viejo works with local businesses to source, interview and recruit candidates for temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct-hire staffing in the areas of office and administrative support, customer service, accounting, light industrial, skilled, and general labor. We serve the South Orange County cities of Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, San Clemente, Laguna Hills, Aliso Viejo, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Niguel and other coastal communities.