• Applications Engineer

    Actalent (Orono, MN)


    Job Title: Applications EngineerJob Description

     

    The Multidisciplinary Application Engineer plays a key role in the development, validation, and introduction of new products by bridging the gap between sales, applications, design, controls, quality, and production. This position provides hands-on engineering support for product testing, prototyping, and manufacturing coordination, while contributing to the design and documentation of hydraulic and electro-hydraulic systems. Working closely with both on-site and remote engineers, the Multidisciplinary Application Engineer ensures that system concepts are effectively translated into manufacturable solutions.

    Responsibilities

    + Design new hydraulic components, assemblies, and integrated systems.

    + Develop and execute engineering test procedures for prototype and production systems.

    + Set up, instrument, and operate hydraulic and electro-hydraulic test benches for verification and performance testing.

    + Document test results and support root-cause analysis for performance or durability issues.

    + Collaborate with applications and controls engineers to validate hardware and software integration.

    + Coordinate with assembly and machining personnel to ensure manufacturability and design intent.

    + Assist with prototype builds, fixture design, and validation testing.

    + Provide troubleshooting and technical support for production or prototype issues.

    + Contribute to continuous improvement efforts related to manufacturing flow, tooling, and test processes.

    + Work closely with Applications Engineers, Design Engineers, and Controls Engineers to ensure integrated system performance.

    + Communicate effectively with sales, quality, and operations to align project goals and technical deliverables.

    + Engage directly with customers to clarify requirements, provide technical support, and ensure product performance meets expectations.

    + Participate in R&D initiatives to introduce new hydraulic and electronic product lines.

    + Maintain compliance with company policies, ISO, OSHA, and AWAIR standards.

    + Uphold the company’s mission, vision, and core values in all interactions.

    Essential Skills

    + Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Fluid Power, or related discipline.

    + 2–5 years of experience in hydraulic system design, fluid power testing, or electro-hydraulic integration.

    + Strong proficiency in 3D modeling and 2D drafting (SolidWorks preferred).

    + Experience with test equipment setup, data acquisition, and troubleshooting.

    + Knowledge of ECO processes, PDM/ERP systems, and NPD workflows.

    + Exposure to PLC/HMI systems or mobile controls (CODESYS or C++ experience a plus).

    + CAD/Solid modeling skills required. SolidWorks and SolidWorks Electrical expertise preferred.

    + Advanced computer skills required.

    + Valid driver’s license, ability to drive independently, and maintain a safe driving record.

    Additional Skills & Qualifications

    + Experience with PLC, inventor, and creo.

    + Ability to travel up to 20%.

    Work Environment

    The work environment consists of a well-lit, clean, and spacious floor with quiet cubicle offices. Employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, flexible spending and health savings accounts with employer contributions, life and pet insurance, employer-paid short-term and long-term disability, 401(k) matching, identity theft protection, and a wellness program with discount opportunities. Additional benefits include paid time off, birthday PTO, an Employee Assistance Program, and tuition reimbursement.

     

    Job Type & Location

     

    This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Orono, MN.

    Pay and Benefits

    The pay range for this position is $33.00 - $48.00/hr.

     

    Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

     

    Workplace Type

     

    This is a fully onsite position in Orono,MN.

     

    Application Deadline

     

    This position is anticipated to close on Jan 14, 2026.

    About Actalent

    Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

     

    The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

     

    If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email [email protected] (%[email protected]) for other accommodation options.