Applications Engineering Specialist

Essential Functions of the Job (responsibilities): Maintain Applications Engineering laboratory equipment and work areas to ensure safe, organized, and efficient operation. Lead customer demonstrations, product evaluations, and technical reviews, ensuring testing objectives are achieved and results are communicated effectively. Prepare test boards, materials, tooling, and equipment necessary for customer and internal projects. Develop testing strategies, validation methodologies, and process evaluation plans to assess product performance, manufacturing capabilities, and customer requirements. Independently analyze application requirements and determine appropriate equipment configurations, process parameters, and testing approaches to achieve project objectives. Assist Applications Engineers with process development activities, customer projects, and experimental testing. Troubleshoot routine equipment issues and coordinate repairs and preventative maintenance activities as required. Ensure laboratory inventory, consumables, chemicals, and supplies are maintained at appropriate levels. Represent the Applications Engineering function during customer visits, technical meetings, trade shows, industry events, and cross-functional business reviews. Document test setups, procedures, observations, and results accurately and completely. Maintain compliance with all company safety policies and laboratory operating procedures. Assist with equipment installations, configuration changes, and evaluations of new products and technologies. Coordinate shipment, receipt, and handling of customer samples, boards, and test materials. Develop and present technical reports, application studies, customer recommendations, and project findings to internal and external stakeholders. Exercise independent judgment in prioritizing assignments, determining project approaches, resolving technical issues, and recommending corrective actions. Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on product performance, customer satisfaction, laboratory effectiveness, and applications engineering capabilities. Required Education & Experience: Associates degree in Electronics Technology, Manufacturing Technology, Engineering Technology or Quality Assurance is required. 7+ years of experience supporting application engineering, process engineering, manufacturing engineering, or technical services. Basic understanding of SMT and PCB assembly processes. Experience operating, setting up, and troubleshooting capital equipment used in electronics manufacturing environments. Ability to interpret engineering documentation, process specifications, technical drawings, and test procedures. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Experience documenting and interpreting test results and preparing reports for engineering teams and customers. Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office applications including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Strong verbal and written communication skills and ability to work effectively within a team environment. Physical Requirements and Working Conditions: Working conditions involve seated computer work as well as regular operation of laboratory and manufacturing equipment. Frequent lifting of materials and equipment up to 40 pounds may be required. Travel up to 5%. A valid passport may be required. ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues’ unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential.  As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability,