Sales Engineer

Sales Engineer Plainwell, MI 49080 SUMMARY:We are a leading engineering, systems integration, and technology consulting firm located in Plainwell, Michigan, providing complete automation and control system solutions for automotive, food & beverage, water/wastewater, and other industrial sectors for over 25 yearsWe are seeking an experienced Sales Engineer to join our teamThis role is responsible for developing customer relationships, architecting technically sound automation solutions, and guiding opportunities from initial engagement through project handoff. The ideal candidate combines technical depth with disciplined sales execution and earns customer trust through preparation, competence, and follow-throughThis position is not built around volume or pressure tactics. It is designed for someone who prefers thoughtful analysis, clear communication, and long-term customer relationships. Travel is generally regional and limited in frequency ROLE OVERVIEW:The Sales Engineer serves as the primary technical and commercial owner of assigned opportunitiesThis role spans the full pre-award lifecycle—including opportunity identification, solution development, estimating, proposal support, and contract award—and remains engaged through project kickoff to ensure a clean transition to executionSuccess in this role depends on technical credibility, sound judgment, and the ability to balance customer needs with realistic engineering and delivery constraints RESPONSIBILITIES: Opportunity Development & Customer EngagementDevelop a deep understanding of customer processes, operational challenges, and business objectivesIdentify and qualify automation and controls opportunities aligned with Perceptive Controls' technical capabilitiesEngage customers in a consultative manner to define scope, success criteria, risks, and constraintsBuild and maintain long-term customer relationships based on trust and technical competenceMaintain a disciplined, well-documented sales pipeline Solution Architecture & Proposal DevelopmentCollaborate with controls engineers and management to develop practical, well-engineered solutionsSupport the development of project estimates, technical narratives, and commercial proposalsClearly communicate solution assumptions, exclusions, and execution considerations to customersEnsure proposed solutions align with internal engineering standards and execution realitiesParticipate in proposal reviews and customer clarifications as required Lifecycle Ownership & HandoffServe as the primary technical owner of opportunities from initial engagement through contract awardParticipate in internal project kickoff meetings to ensure proper scope transfer and alignmentMaintain awareness of project progress and customer satisfaction post-awardSupport the resolution of scope clarifications or commercial issues that arise during executionAct as an escalation point when customer expectations and execution realities diverge REQUIREMENTS:Minimum 5+ years of experience in a Sales Engineer, Controls Engineer, or technical sales roleStrong understanding of industrial automation systems, including PLC, HMI, and SCADA platformsAbility to read and understand electrical schematics and control system architecturesExperience with automation platforms such as Rockwell Automation, Ignition, Siemens, Wonderware, or equivalentProven ability to engage both technical and non-technical customer stakeholdersStrong written and verbal communication skillsDisciplined time management and ability to manage multiple active opportunitiesMethodical problem-solving approach with attention to technical and commercial accuracyHigh aptitude for learning new industries, processes, and technical platforms DESIRED CHARACTERISTICS:Comfortable operating independently with minimal oversightValues preparation, clarity, and follow-through over speed or volumeRespects the realities of engineering execution and project deliveryCalm, professional demeanor in complex or ambiguous situationsMotivated by long-term customer success rather than short-term wins COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:Compensation commensurate with experience, technical depth, and performanceSales incentive structure aligned with profitable, well-executed projectsCompetitive health, dental, and vision insurance401(k) with company matchLong-term growth opportunity within an engineering-driven organization We are an equal opportunity employer, and we are an organization that values diversity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, including minorities and persons with disabilities. req26-00277