Applications Engineer

Gooch & Housego • Highland Heights, OH

2d • Onsite

About The Position

G&H is seeking a customer-focused Applications Engineer to serve as the technical bridge between customers, sales, and engineering. In this role, you will help define customer requirements, recommend optical solutions, and support new product introductions from concept through production. Based in Cleveland, OH, you will collaborate closely with Sales, Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain to deliver technically sound, manufacturable solutions while providing an exceptional customer experience. This position is ideal for an engineer who enjoys solving complex technical challenges, building customer relationships, and working across cross-functional teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• 3+ years of experience in Applications Engineering, Product Engineering, Technical Sales Support, or a related engineering role within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of engineering principles, manufacturing processes, and product lifecycle management and ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to present technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences and proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and engineering software; experience with ERP, CRM, or PLM systems is preferred.
• Self-motivated with strong organizational skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Ability to travel as required to support customers and business needs.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in optics, photonics, precision manufacturing, or related technologies, and experience working within ISO-regulated manufacturing environments.
• Experience supporting customer-facing engineering or technical sales activities and familiarity with Lean Manufacturing or continuous improvement methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary technical point of contact for customers throughout the sales, development, and product lifecycle.
• Understand customer application requirements and recommend appropriate optical products, systems, or customized solutions.
• Provide technical presentations, product demonstrations, and application support alongside the Sales team.
• Review customer specifications, drawings, and technical requirements to assess product feasibility and manufacturability.
• Support new product introductions through design reviews, prototype evaluations, qualification activities, and production readiness.
• Identify technical risks and collaborate with engineering teams to develop practical, cost-effective solutions.
• Partner with Design Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain to ensure successful execution of customer programs.
• Support product development, testing, validation, and transition into production.
• Maintain accurate engineering documentation, application notes, specifications, and customer records.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on product performance, manufacturing efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
• Stay informed on emerging technologies, industry trends, and competitive products to support innovation and business growth.
• Travel to customer sites, manufacturing facilities, and industry events as needed.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level