Associate Systems Engineer Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

FORTNA is seeking a Mechanical Systems Engineer to support the design and estimation of material handling and warehouse automation solutions. This role is responsible for developing accurate project cost estimates, preparing proposal documentation, and supporting system design activities for new customer installations, system upgrades, and change orders.

Working closely with senior Systems Engineers, Sales, Controls Engineering, Project Management, and Supply Chain teams, the Mechanical Systems Engineer analyzes customer requirements, develops equipment costs, and ensures proposed solutions align with technical specifications and project objectives. This role offers an excellent opportunity for engineers looking to build expertise in material handling system design, estimating, and customer-facing technical consulting.

• Develop mechanical equipment cost estimates for new material handling systems, retrofit projects, and change orders using established estimating tools.
• Review customer RFQs and technical specifications to ensure estimates accurately reflect project scope and requirements.
• Analyze AutoCAD layouts, equipment lists, and system configurations to support accurate proposal development.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Controls, Installation, Project Management, Procurement, and other internal teams to estimate complete project costs.
• Prepare estimates for freight, permits, installation, engineering, project management, and other project-related expenses.
• Generate RFQ packages for equipment manufacturers, suppliers, and subcontractors.
• Prepare professional proposal documentation using Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Lead customer design review meetings to present proposed solutions and answer technical questions.
• Present project scope, pricing, and risk assessments during executive-level cost review meetings.
• Develop a strong understanding of customer design standards and technical specifications.
• Build working knowledge of conveyor systems, sortation equipment, conveyor drives, belting, accumulation systems, and other material handling technologies.
• Review system layouts, product flow, and throughput requirements to help ensure proposed systems meet operational objectives.
• Maintain detailed project documentation throughout the proposal and estimating process.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to estimating processes and engineering standards.

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• 2-4+ years of experience in the material handling, warehouse automation, or industrial systems industry.
• 2-4+ years of experience developing project cost estimates or supporting technical proposals.
• Ability to review and modify AutoCAD 2D drawings.
• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with customers and internal stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities while meeting deadlines.
• Strong attention to detail and documentation.
• Ability to travel up to 10% for customer meetings, site visits, and project support.

• Experience with 3D modeling software such as Demo3D, Autodesk Inventor, HyCAD, or similar platforms.
• Working knowledge of conveyor systems, sortation equipment, ASRS, and other material handling technologies.
• Basic understanding of industrial controls, PLCs, and automation systems related to material handling.
• Experience participating in customer presentations or technical design reviews.

The base salary range for this role is $76,100 to $114,200. This base salary range represents the low and high end of the base salary range for this position. Actual base salary offered will vary based on various factors including but not limited to location, level, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and performance.

This job description describes the general nature and level of work expected of a person assigned to this position. All job requirements listed indicate the minimum level of knowledge, skills and/or ability deemed necessary to perform the job proficiently. Employees may be required to perform any other job-related duties as requested by their supervisor.

It is the policy of FORTNA and its affiliated companies to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, citizenship status (if authorized to work in the U.S.), or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, FORTNA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.