Jr. Associate Applications Engineer

ATC Automation is seeking a motivated Jr. Associate Applications Engineer to join our growing onsite engineering team in Cookeville, Tennessee. This early-career position supports the development of conceptual machine designs, cost estimates, and technical proposals for custom automation systems that meet customer manufacturing requirements.

Working alongside experienced Applications Engineers, Sales, Engineering, and Leadership, you will review customer drawings, production requirements, and technical specifications to help develop innovative automation solutions. This role offers an excellent opportunity to build a career in custom automation by gaining hands-on experience with machine concepts, proposal development, cost estimating, and customer interaction.

The ideal candidate has 2–3 years of engineering experience in automation, machine design, manufacturing engineering, or a related technical field. You should have a strong mechanical aptitude, enjoy solving technical challenges, and be eager to learn the custom machine-building process while developing your engineering and proposal skills.

About ATC Automation

Since 1977, ATC Automation has been a trusted leader in designing and building custom automation solutions. From concept to commissioning, we partner with some of the world's top brands to deliver precision-engineered machinery that improves efficiency, reliability, and performance. Our expertise spans industries that shape the way we live and move-Life Sciences, Transportation, Consumer Products, and General Industry.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and comprehensive compensation package.
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, and 401(k).
• Opportunities for professional development, technical training, and career advancement.
• Collaborative engineering environment focused on innovation and continuous improvement.
• The opportunity to work on unique, custom-designed automation systems across a variety of industries.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in developing conceptual machine layouts and tooling designs for custom automation and manufacturing systems.
• Review customer drawings, specifications, production goals, cycle time requirements, and technical data with guidance from senior team members.
• Collaborate with customers, sales, engineering, and leadership to help develop automation solutions that meet technical and commercial objectives.
• Support the development of preliminary and final cost estimates using Microsoft Excel and company estimating tools.
• Assist with estimating operator task times and manufacturing cycle times for proposed assembly processes.
• Prepare technical proposals, quotations, and supporting documentation using Microsoft Word, SolidWorks, and related software.
• Contribute to the conceptual design of assembly machines, automation equipment, and testing systems under the direction of senior engineers.
• Research new technologies, components, and manufacturing processes that support proposed automation solutions.
• Create 3D renderings, concept drawings, and presentation materials to support customer proposals and sales activities.
• Assist with technical presentations by preparing concepts, visuals, and supporting documentation for customer meetings.
• Manage assigned projects and quotation activities while meeting customer deadlines and business objectives.
• Travel periodically to customer facilities to support meetings, project reviews, and technical discussions.
• Maintain a valid driver's license and the ability to travel as required.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• 2–3 years of experience in automation, machine design, manufacturing engineering, or a related technical environment.
• Exposure to custom automation quoting, cost estimating, or proposal development is preferred but not required.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Experience using SolidWorks for mechanical design and 3D modeling.
• Foundational understanding of mechanical engineering principles, machine design, GD&T, and interpretation of technical drawings.
• Basic knowledge of mechanical, pneumatic, and electrical systems used in automated equipment.
• General familiarity with industrial electrical controls and pneumatic systems.
• Familiarity with machining and fabrication processes, including milling, turning, boring, welding, and assembly, is beneficial.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, cross-functional team environment while continuously developing technical skills.

Preferred Skills

• Internship or professional experience in custom automation, special machinery, manufacturing, or industrial equipment.
• Interest in developing expertise in conceptual machine design, cost estimating, and proposal development.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a willingness to learn from experienced engineers.
• Ability to interpret customer requirements and contribute to practical engineering solutions.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Self-motivated with a desire to grow within a custom automation engineering environment.

Interpersonal Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with engineering, manufacturing, sales, and customers.
• Willingness to learn through coaching and mentorship from senior engineers.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
• Positive attitude, curiosity, and a customer-focused approach to problem solving.

Success Metrics

• Accuracy and completeness of assigned quotation and proposal tasks.
• Timely completion of estimates and customer deliverables.
• Growth in conceptual machine design and automation knowledge.
• Quality of technical documentation and proposal materials.
• Ability to contribute effectively to customer proposals and engineering discussions.
• Collaboration with cross-functional teams and responsiveness to project deadlines.
• Continuous development of engineering and estimating skills.

Disclaimer:

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this position. This job description is subject to change but will remain in effect until superseded or canceled in writing by Human Resources.

ATC Automation is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.

ATC Automation is the Automation segment of TASI Group. The TASI Group of Companies is comprised of four technologically advanced Strategic Business Segments commonly linked by a disciplined focus on Product Integrity, Package Integrity, and Automation. Each TASI company delivers world-class products and services, focusing on our global customer needs in diverse market segments. TASI has served several thousand global customers over the years and enjoys a very high rate of repeat customers, many of which are Blue Chip Global Companies. Major Markets include: Automotive, Medical Devices, Life Science, Pharmaceutical, Packaging, Oil & Gas, Food & Beverage, Consumer Goods and General Industrial Equipment.