Applications Engineer

About Us

At S&K Industrial, we’re a fast-growing company delivering smart, turnkey engineering solutions that power the industrial world. From overhead material handling systems to automation controls and machine safety, we help manufacturers and commercial operations get the job done—safely, efficiently, and effectively.
Even as we grow, we’re proud to keep things practical and down-to-earth. Our team works in a non-corporate, collaborative environment where people contribute ideas, solve problems, and make an impact every day.

Position Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented Applications Engineer to join our team. In this role, you’ll review project requirements, interpret technical specifications and drawings, and work with engineering, production, and purchasing teams to prepare accurate cost estimates for custom-engineered industrial equipment. This includes both concept work—developing preliminary estimates for new ideas—and detailed project estimating for materials, labor, subcontracting, manufacturing, and logistics. You’ll also engage with suppliers, assess project risks, and recommend value-engineering options to help ensure bids are competitive, profitable, and achievable.

The ideal candidate has a strong mechanical engineering background, a working knowledge of electrical systems, and broad hands-on experience in manufacturing, system integration, or industrial equipment maintenance.

Key Responsibilities

· Review project specifications, drawings, and requirements to prepare accurate cost estimates.

· Evaluate mechanical and electrical system needs, conceptualize customer solutions, and refine concepts from senior engineers.

· Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, purchasing, and sales teams to define scope and clarify details.

· Source supplier and subcontractor quotes, maintain cost databases, and break down costs for materials, labor, subcontracting, and overhead.

· Prepare proposals, quotations, and supporting documentation, recommending design or process changes to improve cost-effectiveness and manufacturability.

· Assist in project planning, scheduling, and post-project cost analysis.

Qualifications

· Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent experience).

· Minimum of 3 years in manufacturing, system integration, or industrial equipment maintenance, with working knowledge of electrical systems and controls.

· Proficiency in reading technical drawings; familiarity with AutoCAD/3D modeling and ERP/MRP systems.

· Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, industry codes, and standards.

· Excellent problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills, with proven ability to balance competitiveness and profitability in estimating.

· Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and effective both independently and in team settings.

· Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. on a permanent basis. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship, including STEM OPT extensions, at this time.

Why Join Us?

At S&K Industrial, we’re more than engineering experts—we’re a locally owned, people-first team that values mutual respect and long-term career growth. Here, your work is hands-on, your ideas are heard, and your impact is real.

· Take on cutting-edge projects in a collaborative, supportive environment

· Grow professionally while building a sustainable career path

· Be part of a company that values both innovation and people

Ready to make an impact where it matters? Apply today and take the next step in your engineering career with S&K Industrial.

This fully on-site role can be based at either our Lexington or Winchester, KY location—whichever you prefer.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $70,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement

Application Question(s):

• Will you now or in the future require employment sponsorship (for example, an H-1B visa)? This includes candidates currently on F-1 STEM OPT who may need sponsorship once their work authorization expires.
• In addition to your mechanical engineering background, do you have working knowledge of electrical engineering?

Experience:

• manufacturing, integrator, or equipment maintenance: 3 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person