Applications Engineer

Akona Process Solutions unites four trusted brands—Spiroflow, Kason, Cablevey, and Marion—to deliver advanced material handling and processing systems. With over 200 years of combined expertise, we design mixers, dryers, screeners, conveyors, and complete bulk handling solutions that enhance efficiency, hygiene, and performance across food, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and chemical industries. Headquartered in Charlotte, NC, Akona serves customers worldwide through centers of excellence in the USA, UK, and Germany. Job Summary The Application Engineer plays a critical role in translating customer needs into technically sound and commercially viable solutions. This position supports sales efforts by developing tailored equipment recommendations, preparing technical proposals, and offering ongoing engineering support. The Application Engineer collaborates closely with customers, sales, product development, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless delivery of engineered solutions. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Customer Requirement Analysis: Review RFQs, customer specs, and application data to assess project feasibility and recommend solutions. Solution Design: Configure equipment selections and systems tailored to customer processes using internal tools and technical expertise. Proposal Development: Prepare quotations, technical descriptions, general arrangement drawings utilizing 2D and 3D cad software, and equipment lists. Collaboration: Act as a technical liaison between sales, engineering, operations, and the customer to ensure project alignment and successful execution. Presentations & Demos: Support sales during customer presentations and equipment demonstrations. Explain features, benefits, and integration strategies. Costing and Sizing: Accurately calculate system capacities, power requirements, and cost estimates. Testing & Validation: Support product trials, lab tests, and evaluations to verify performance criteria when necessary. Continuous Improvement: Identify and propose updates to design tools, processes, or systems to increase speed, accuracy, or clarity of deliverables. Documentation and Systems: Maintain accurate records of application engineering activities, project documentation, and CRM inputs. Technology Integration: Support the use of engineering software, automation tools, and AI-driven platforms to improve technical output and decision-making. Minimum Education Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical field. Minimum Work Experience Minimum 3 years of experience in application engineering or technical support, preferably within the bulk solids, food processing, or materials handling industry. Key Skills and Competencies Communication and interpersonal skills; solid understanding of mechanical systems and process flow design, ability to interpret P&IDs, technical drawings, and specifications; detail-oriented with strong organizational and time management skills; experience with CAD (AutoCAD, SolidWorks) and ERP/CRM systems; familiarity with bulk materials, mixing, conveying, or drying equipment preferred. Licenses, Certifications or Special Qualifications Experience in bulk materials processing industry; food, nutraceutical, or specialty chemical preferred. Exposure to AI-based design tools or digital transformation projects is desirable. Travel 15% On site Monroe NC Benefits: 401(k) matching Dental insurance Disability insurance Employee assistance program Flexible spending account Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Parental leave Tuition reimbursement Vision insurance Work Location: In person