Applications Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

A Senior Applications Engineer is responsible for assessing the costs and resources required for a project or service. They analyze project specifications, review drawings and data sheets, and collaborate with various stakeholders to determine material, labor, and equipment needs. Estimators also research market prices, obtain quotes from suppliers and subcontractors, and prepare detailed cost estimates and proposals. Their role is crucial in ensuring accurate budgeting and pricing for projects in construction, manufacturing, engineering, and other industries.

Essential Responsibilities

Core Responsibilities:

1. Independently review customer supplied specifications to assess feasibility of Powell manufacture or supply
2. Read and interpret electrical drawings to include single-lines, three-lines, elevations, control schematics, site plans and electrical enclosure layouts
3. Generate accurate proposals based on the review and interpretation of customer-supplied documentation
4. Recognize and effectively communicate application concerns prior to development of proposal
5. Translate conceptual customer designs into a meaningful proposal
6. Optimize the proposed solution to best benefit Powell and our customer
7. Write effective comments to help define Powell's offering
8. Act as technical resource for Powell Sales
9. Assist Powell Sales with internal and external technical discussions and solutions
10. Perform competitive evaluation of sub vendor proposals used to complete the overall Powell offering
11. Assess risk associated with sub-vendor offering
12. Interact with other Powell divisions to develop cross business solutions
13. Requires minimal supervision.
14. Project responsibilities may be average to complex.
15. May be selected to lead a project requiring contribution from multiple Application Engineers.

Secondary Responsibilities (performed but not regularly):

1. Participate in sales and marketing activities to include client meetings and conferences
2. Participate in executing cost out initiatives in conjunction with Engineering and Operations
3. Perform analytical or competitive market studies as required
4. Contribute to new and existing product specifications

Key Functions:

1. Prepare detailed, accurate and cost competitive proposals - 90%
2. Participate in external customer facing activities - 10%

Minimum Qualifications 

• B.S. in Electrical Engineering or relevant discipline
• 4+ years of experience in electrical equipment estimating, or related field.

Skills, Abilities & Other Requirements 

• Build and maintain a working knowledge of electrical theory and applicable industry standards including IEEE/ANSI, NEC, IBC and NFPA.
• Applied knowledge of low & medium voltage distribution equipment ratings and design
• Applied knowledge of DC systems, UPS systems, HVAC and pressurization
• Applied knowledge of interconnect, conduit and cable schedules
• Ability to read and interpret electrical specifications
• Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings to include single lines, three lines, schematics and wiring diagrams
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Customer Oriented
• Able to manage multiple priorities
• Prioritizes and plans work activities; uses time efficiently; plans for additional resources; sets goals and objectives; develops realistic action plans in order to meet deadlines
• Problem Solving: Gathers and analyzes information using inquisitive mind, using strong logical, methodical and systematic skills
• Work independently with little or no supervision
• Ability to learn new skills and assume new responsibilities
• Visio / Auto CAD / Inventor
• Microsoft Office Suite

Working Conditions

• Temperature controlled working environment. Some outside activities may be required.

• This position may travel out-of-town to attend training and meetings.

• Typical office environment: may experience minor discomfort from extensive use of a computer display and keyboard; travel between buildings on campus and between campuses.

Physical Requirements

• Maintaining body equilibrium and agility to prevent falling when walking, standing, crouching, ascending or descending stairs.

• Sitting, standing and walking for long periods of time.

• Typing, punching or applying pressure to an object with fingers and palm.

More Information 

This job description outlines the essential functions of the job and does not contain a comprehensive list of all possible responsibilities, tasks, and duties.

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