WL - Application Engineer

Ward Leonard, a Fairbanks Morse Defense Company, is an industry-leading provider of electric motor, generator, control, and service solutions critical to Naval applications for more than 120 years. Located in Thomaston, Connecticut, Ward Leonard has worked hard to build a reputation as being a trusted name in powering the defense industry. This trust within the market is not possible without the continued hard work, commitment, and dedication of our team who respect the importance of what we do and the impact it has on the servicemen and women.

Mission-Driven. Honor-Bound. Fairbanks Morse Defense. What's your calling? For the men and women of Fairbanks Morse Defense, it's the rapid and effective support of the fleets that entrust us to design, develop, and deliver the best naval power technology on the planet. We're one of the nation's leading marine defense contractors because of the highly trained and dedicated teams that provide reliable power systems, parts, and aftermarket services to the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and Canadian Coast Guard. When you join Fairbanks Morse Defense, you join a legacy of commitment that spans 150 years. Fairbanks Morse Defense offers competitive benefits with a wide range of training and development opportunities. Our world-class teams are dedicated to helping every individual achieve their full potential. Discover what it's like to be a part of the Fairbanks Morse Defense team here: ;br>
Position Overview:

The Application Engineer will play a critical role in developing and delivering technical solutions for a wide range of customer applications, including composite fabrication, CNC machining, and controls systems. This role involves analyzing customer requirements, preparing detailed quotations and technical proposals, and supporting project execution from concept to completion. The Application Engineer will collaborate across engineering, manufacturing, sales, and R&D to develop innovative solutions, while also providing ongoing customer support and troubleshooting. This position is ideal for someone with a strong technical background, excellent problem-solving skills, and a passion for customer success.

In this function you will:

• Analyze customer requirements to develop tailored solutions, including cost estimates, schedules, tooling, and resource needs.
• Provide technical support to customers and internal teams by preparing detailed proposals, including cost breakdowns, 3D models, BOMs, and technical presentations.
• Utilize ERP systems (e.g., VISUAL Enterprise) to generate quotes, BOMs, engineering masters, and work orders.
• Conceptualize and design components, assemblies, and manufacturing processes using CAD tools (e.g., CATIA V5, SolidWorks).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, sales, manufacturing, and R&D) to ensure manufacturability, reliability, and serviceability of designs.
• Develop machining parameters, tooling requirements, and automation sequences for complex applications such as deep hole drilling, composite fabrication, or electrical controls.
• Create technical drawings, process documentation, and tool setup instructions for internal and customer use.
• Participate in process validation, testing, and continuous improvement activities to optimize performance.
• Provide hands-on customer support during project execution, including build, testing, runoff, and training phases.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues for customers on-site or remotely.
• Work with suppliers to source materials and tooling for proposals and projects.

Basic (Required) Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Electrical, or Electro-Mechanical Engineering (or a related technical field).
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in engineering design, product development, or applications engineering.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD tools (e.g., CATIA V5, SolidWorks) and ERP systems (e.g., VISUAL Enterprise).
• Strong knowledge of precision machining, composite fabrication, and/or electrical/electro-mechanical systems.
• Familiarity with industry standards and specifications (e.g., NEMA, UL, MIL specs).
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and project management skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
• Demonstrated ability to work in cross-functional team environments and communicate effectively with customers, vendors, and internal teams.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to self-manage work with minimal supervision.

Fairbanks Morse Defense offers a competitive benefits package including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances, and 401k retirement plan with employer match. In addition, we offer paid time off, paid holidays, paid parental leave, and tuition reimbursement.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled