What is applications engineering?
The aim of applications engineering is to optimise manufacturability, reliability and cost. Depending on which industry and discipline the individual has chosen, applications engineers working in an industrial environment may orchestrate the planning, design and deployment of heavy machinery and specialised equipment, while in the computer industry the engineer will apply technology including software, programming and computer science.
They also plan, direct and oversee a product development cycle, and work with design engineers to facilitate the process of a job, offering advice to ensure that the design meets the customer’s requirements while avoiding over complication and minimising manufacturing risk.
The responsibilities of an application engineer may effect multiple departments, from manufacturing to sales, and even when in the hands of the consumer, as customer services may look to an applications engineer to assist in solving a technical problem that has arisen while using the product. Strong self-motivation along with team playing skills, excellent communication and the ability to handle simple tasks and complex projects with equal patience are key attributes for those wishing to pursue a career in this sector.