Automation Application Engineer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Description

Field Application Engineer (IoT)

Austin, TX - Hybrid

Overview

Grace Technologies is accelerating the industrial world's transition to zero downtime and zero harm. We design intelligent electrical safety and predictive maintenance solutions trusted by global data centers, utilities, and industrial facilities making maintenance safer, smarter and more efficient.

Role Summary

Under the direction of the group Lead, the Field Application Engineer (IIoT) supports sales and customers by applying deep technical knowledge of Grace Technologies' products in real-world industrial environments. This role combines sales engineering, technical support, and customer-facing field work, including remote and on-site support, solution engineering, installations, training, and feedback into product development. This position requires up to 60% travel, including on-site customer support, trade show participation, and at least quarterly visits to Grace Technologies' corporate office for remote employees.

Key Responsibilities

Sales Engineering & Customer Solutions

• Partner with customers to assess technical needs and engineer effective solutions
• Explain product capabilities, configurations, and limitations
• Support technical sales opportunities, including development of formal quotes and pricing proposals

Field & Technical Support

• Provide remote and on-site application support and installation oversight
• Monitor network and asset health at IIoT deployment sites
• Serve as the primary field technical support resource for assigned products
• Research, prioritize, and resolve customer issues; own assigned support tickets through closure

Product & Customer Feedback

• Develop and maintain deep technical knowledge of the product portfolio
• Maintain and update internal technical documentation
• Share voice-of-the-customer feedback (including negative feedback) with Product and Engineering teams
• Assist development teams by testing new products and features and providing structured feedback

Training, Events & Programs

• Conduct technical training for customers, sales reps, and distributors
• Represent Grace Technologies at trade shows and customer events
  • Participation in the annual Rockwell Automation Fair required as assigned
• Own or participate in cross-functional programs (e.g., Customer Success, Firmware/Software Testing, Production Support) as assigned

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Ability to troubleshoot wired and wireless networks and computer systems
• Working knowledge of industrial automation devices and software (PLCs, SCADA/HMI)
• Familiarity with industrial automation protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP/IP, OPC UA)
• Experience using CRM software
• Strong customer-facing communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Valid U.S. driver's license
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 50-60% annually (sometimes with short notice)

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Working knowledge of cloud-based architectures (e.g., Azure)
• Familiarity with MQTT / Sparkplug communication protocols
• Experience with predictive maintenance technologies, including:
  • Electrical or mechanical infrared inspections
  • Dynamic balancing
  • Airborne ultrasound inspections
  • Machinery alignment
  • Motor current analysis (online/offline)
  • ODS or motion amplification

Education & Experience

• Associate's technical degree in engineering or equivalent experience in a related technical field.  Bachelor's degree preferred.
• 2+ years of experience in industrial sales, applications engineering, or technical support

Language, Math & Reasoning Skills

• Ability to read and interpret technical specifications, blueprints, engineering change notices, and manuals
• Ability to prepare reports, technical documentation, and write programming code
• Ability to communicate effectively with vendors, customers, and internal teams
• Ability to apply mathematical concepts including fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions
• Ability to solve practical problems in environments with limited standardization and evolving requirements

Additional Technical Capabilities

• Understanding of fundamental design principles for scalable applications
• Ability to create and support database schemas aligned with business processes

Physical Demands

This role requires frequent sitting, standing, walking, talking, hearing, and use of hands. Occasional bending, stooping, and reaching may be required. The employee must occasionally lift up to 50 pounds. Vision requirements include close, distance, color, peripheral, depth perception, and focus adjustment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Travel Requirements

• Average travel up to 50% annually by vehicle and air
• Periods of travel may exceed 50% based on customer needs
• Quarterly travel to the corporate office for company meetings and events required

Work Environment

This is an office-based role associated with a manufacturing facility. The employee may be exposed to moving mechanical parts, airborne particles, fumes, and electrical hazards. Noise levels are typically moderate. Proper PPE must be worn when in manufacturing areas.