Applications Engineer

At Rite-Hite, your work makes an impact. As the global leader in loading dock and door equipment, we design and deliver solutions that keep our customers safe, secure, and productive. Here, you'll find innovation, stability, and the chance to grow your career as part of a team that's always looking ahead.

PURPOSE AND SCOPE

This position is responsible for providing pre-sale and sales application engineering support across product lines to ensure solutions are technically sound, code-compliant, and aligned with customer operational requirements. The role partners closely with Sales, Engineering, and external stakeholders to develop accurate application solutions, support project execution, and minimize risk related to improper application or scope gaps.

The incumbent also contributes to the development and delivery of internal and external training programs to enhance product knowledge and application effectiveness across the organization.

This position requires regular interaction with Customers, Regional Managers, Sales Representatives, Engineering, Purchasing, vendors, and internal Applications team members. The incumbent serves as a key technical resource for application guidance and support.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Includes the following, and additional duties may be assigned.

Application & Design Engineering
* Review and validate site surveys to ensure proper application of products, including identification of missing information, coordination of application layouts, and recommendation of system requirements, and constraints.
* Design and support special applications using AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar tools.
* Create sales support documents such as approval drawings, layout drawings, pit details, and installation details as required.
* Perform application-level validation including system configurations, clearances, and code compliance, with consideration for applicable jurisdictional and permitting requirements.

Sales & Customer Support
* Partner with Sales and Distribution representatives to evaluate customer needs, site conditions, and operational requirements, and recommend appropriate product and system solutions.
* Support customer engagement through site visits, sales support events, and direct interaction to provide technical application expertise.
* Provide technical guidance and application support to sales and customers throughout the sales process.

Quoting, Project Coordination & Execution
* Work with sales on engineered products, including scope definition, vendor coordination, and pricing development.
* Support project execution upon order conversion by validating scope, coordinating with vendors and internal teams, and resolving application-related issues.
* Identify technical risks, scope gaps, or non-standard conditions early in the sales and quoting process to reduce downstream issues.

Permitting & Compliance Support
* Support project permitting processes by coordinating with permit expediters, customers, and vendors; preparing and reviewing permit submittal packages (drawings, calculations, and supporting documentation); and addressing jurisdictional review comments to help maintain approval timelines.

Training & Continuous Improvement
* Assist in the development and delivery of internal and external application training programs.
* Assist with ongoing product and application training to internal teams.
* Contribute to the development and improvement of application methods, pricing strategies, and product offerings.
* Develop, implement, and document policies and procedures to improve departmental efficiency and consistency.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

* Support sales efforts through timely, accurate, and technically sound application engineering assistance.
* Ensure solutions are compliant, executable, and aligned with customer requirements, applicable codes, and jurisdictional expectations.
* Support timely permit approvals by providing accurate and complete submittal documentation in coordination with permit expediters and project stakeholders.
* Maximize corporate profitability through accurate application, scope definition, and pricing of standard and non-standard solutions.
* Reduce downstream engineering rework, permit resubmittals, and project delays by providing complete and accurate application information upfront.
* Promote positive customer and representative relationships through responsive and knowledgeable technical support.
* Contribute to continuous improvement of application processes, training programs, and product development initiatives.
* Provide departmental support by aligning with corporate goals and promoting ongoing education and knowledge sharing within the team.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Structural, Civil, or related) or equivalent industry experience
• 2-5+ years of experience in material handling, warehouse solutions, structural systems, or related fields

Technical Skills

• Strong understanding of material handling systems, including racking and integrated warehouse solutions
• Ability to interpret architectural drawings, site plans, and technical specifications
• Proficiency in AutoCAD or similar design tools
• Familiarity with load calculations, system capacities, and application limitations
• Working knowledge of applicable industry standards (e.g., ANSI/RMI)

Soft Skills

• Strong communication skills with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Proactive, solutions-oriented mindset

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with multi-product warehouse solutions (VRCs, mezzanines, modular buildings, safety systems)
• Familiarity with permitting processes and code requirements
• Exposure to automation or high-density storage systems

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Office-based role with occasional travel to customer sites, job sites, or manufacturing facilities
• Frequent collaboration with cross-functional teams including Sales, Engineering, and Operations
• Standard business hours with flexibility during peak quoting and project periods

What We Offer

At Rite-Hite, we take care of our people - because when you're supported, you can do your best work. Our benefits are designed to support your health, your future and your life outside of work:

• Health & Well-being: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus life and disability insurance. A robust well-being program with an opportunity to receive an extra day off and more.

• Financial Security: A strong retirement savings program with 401(k), company match, and profit sharing.

• Time for You: Paid holidays, vacation time, and personal/sick days each year.

Join us and build a career where you're supported - at work and beyond.

Rite-Hite is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law. In accordance with VEVRAA, we are committed to providing equal employment opportunities for protected veterans. We are also committed to maintaining a drug-free workplace for the safety of our employees and customers.