Estimator / Applications Engineer - Southfield - Dürr Systems Inc

Description

Position Overview

This position supports North American programs and new RFQ opportunities related to the localization of Dürr's global products within the Fluid Fill and End-of-Line (EOL) business segments. The role works closely with internal engineering, sales, and project teams to develop technically sound and commercially competitive proposals for automotive and general assembly manufacturing environments.

The ideal candidate has a strong technical foundation, understands assembly and manufacturing processes, and can translate customer specifications into layout concepts, cost estimates, and complete proposal packages. Familiarity with Dürr's products and how they are applied in vehicle manufacturing and general assembly processes is critical to success in this role.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

RFQ & Proposal Development

• Review and interpret customer RFQs, RFIs, specifications, and part prints to understand technical and commercial requirements
• Develop complete proposal packages, including technical concepts, layouts, cost estimates, and scope descriptions
• Prepare proposal letters and quotations that present the best technical and commercial solutions
• Submit completed proposal packages for internal review and customer submission

Applications & Process Engineering Support

• Apply knowledge of assembly processing, including layouts, cycle time analysis, and manufacturing flow
• Create and review layout concepts and drawings using AutoCAD
• Develop new layouts and project concepts based on assigned RFQs
• Perform feasibility reviews in collaboration with engineering and operational departments

Cross-Functional & Customer Collaboration

• Work closely with engineering, project management, operations, and product line management throughout the RFQ process
• Participate in customer meetings, technical reviews, and follow-up discussions after quotation submittal
• Support project handoff activities, including sales turnover meetings and internal kick-off documentation
• Provide technical support to Product Line Managers and Project Managers

Costing, Documentation & Technical Content

• Obtain supplier quotations for major purchased components
• Prepare estimates and budgetary costs for new machine technology and system rework
• Complete machine content descriptions, bills of material, and "as sold" documentation
• Maintain and distribute all applications engineering documentation to internal teams

Global & Organizational Support

• Support other global Dürr divisions as needed on international opportunities
• Coordinate with global applications engineering and product management teams to support modular and localized product solutions

Non-Essential Functions

• Perform other duties as required

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline (Engineering preferred) or equivalent experience in Applications Engineering, Mechanical Systems, or Controls
• Experience participating in RFQ and quotation processes for industrial or manufacturing systems

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong understanding of manufacturing and assembly processes
• Proficiency with AutoCAD and Microsoft Office applications
• Ability to read and interpret technical specifications, part prints, and geometric tolerances
• Practical understanding of mechanical systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, and industrial equipment
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively across technical and commercial teams

Special Position Requirements

• Ability to travel to customer and supplier locations, including occasional international travel
• Ability to travel by air

What We Look for in Candidates

Candidates should demonstrate curiosity and preparation by familiarizing themselves with Dürr's products, particularly within the Fluid Fill and EOL segments, and how these systems are used in automotive and general assembly manufacturing environments. During interviews, candidates will be asked to discuss prior RFQ experience, layout development, proposal preparation, and technical-commercial decision making.

Dürr Systems USA has been present in the United States since 1970 and operates multiple locations across the United States, including facilities in Michigan and Wisconsin. The largest site is in Southfield, Michigan, which serves as the main center for operations. As of 2025, Dürr employs approximately 660 people across the country who support a wide range of market segments. Dürr Systems USA plans, builds, and installs complete, state-of-the-art paint shops and final assembly facilities, supported by DXQ, Dürr's digital products suite. The company also offers advanced automated painting, sealing, and gluing application technologies, as well as high-viscosity material handling solutions. In addition to serving the automotive industry, Dürr Systems provides premium application technology products for the general industry. In the field of electrode manufacturing, Dürr Systems enhances quality, cost efficiency, and speed to market lithium-ion battery electrode coating through its advanced development and manufacturing coating systems. Committed to innovation, excellence, and customized solutions, Dürr Systems addresses the diverse needs of its North American customers with precision and reliability.

Dürr Systems, LLC. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment drug and alcohol testing.

Note to all Staffing Agencies: Dürr has a team of dedicated Human Resources professionals who are responsible for all hiring needs. Our practice is to partner and work with our approved vendors on an as needed basis. We do not accept resumes from agencies that are not on our preferred vendor list and have not signed our Recruiting and Permanent Placement Contract. Any resumes submitted from unapproved vendors will be considered unsolicited, and Dürr