Job Description

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly technical and customer-focused Applications Engineer to specialize in our elastomeric (O-Ring) and mechanical seal product lines. You will be the primary technical expert, responsible for guiding customers from concept through production by selecting, designing, and validating the optimal sealing solution. This role requires a unique blend of deep material knowledge, mechanical design aptitude, and exceptional communication skills to bridge the gap between customer needs and our manufacturing capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Solutioning & Selection:

Analyze customer applications, including fluid media, temperature, pressure, dynamic/static status, and regulatory requirements to recommend the optimal seal type, material (e.g., FKM/Viton, FFKM, EPDM, HNBR, Silicone), and design.

Design & Customization:

Create and modify seal designs using 2D/3D CAD (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD). Design custom O-ring grooves and mechanical seal arrangements. Perform preliminary analysis on extrusion, compression, and thermal loads.

Quotation & Proposal Development:

Prepare detailed technical proposals and cost estimates, including material selection justifications, design specifications, and compliance with industry standards (e.g., AS568, ISO 3601).

Cross-Functional Leadership:

Serve as the critical technical liaison between customers, the sales team, and manufacturing. Ensure proposed solutions are viable, cost-effective, and optimized for production.

Troubleshooting & Failure Analysis:

Lead root cause analysis (RCA) for seal failures in the field or during testing. Provide expert recommendations for design or material changes to resolve leakage, extrusion, or chemical compatibility issues.

Project Management:

Manage the technical timeline for custom application projects, from initial inquiry and prototyping to production qualification and launch.

Customer Education & Support:

Conduct technical presentations and training for customers and distributors on sealing best practices, material compatibility, and proper installation techniques. Create and maintain technical documentation and white papers.

Required Qualifications & Skills

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.

Experience:

3+ years of experience in a design, manufacturing, or applications engineering role with a focus on

polymer/elastomer components

and/or

precision mechanical assemblies

.

Technical Proficiency:

O-Ring Expertise:

Deep knowledge of elastomer chemistry (NBR, FKM, EPDM, etc.), material compatibility (using charts like Parker's O-Ring Handbook), AS568 standard sizes, and gland design principles.

Mechanical Seal Expertise:

Understanding of the fundamental components and operation of mechanical seals (faces, springs, secondary seals), including single vs. double, balanced vs. unbalanced designs.

CAD Skills:

Proficiency in 3D CAD software for modeling and creating detailed drawings.

GD&T:

Ability to read and interpret geometric dimensioning and tolerancing.

Interpersonal Skills:

Excellent customer-facing communication and presentation skills. Strong problem-solving and analytical mindset. Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

Direct experience in a sealing manufacturer or a heavy user of seals (e.g., in pump, valve, or actuator manufacturing). Experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for stress or thermal analysis of seals. Knowledge of fluid dynamics and tribology as it relates to sealing interfaces. Familiarity with industry-specific standards and certifications (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100, ISO 13485, FDA regulations). Project Management (PMP) certification or experience.

What We Offer

A competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure. Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance. Opportunities for professional development and technical certification. A collaborative work environment at the forefront of sealing technology.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Fixed term contract, Freelance

Pay: $56,310.13-$94,490.15 per year

Work Location: In person