Applications Engineer - Simulation

THE COMPANY Invio Automation is a leading provider of advanced automation solutions, serving high-growth markets including medical device and life sciences, renewable energy, mobility, logistics & fulfillment, and heavy industry. Our collaborative teams deliver mission-critical R&D pre-validation services that lay the foundation for full-scale automation systems—where precision, efficiency, and accuracy are essential to success. With seven locations across North America and a global network of partners, Invio maintains a strong presence in key regions where local service and support matter. Invio’s proven portfolio of Industry 4.0 technology includes Autonomous Guided Vehicles (AGVs) for heavyweight applications, turnkey assembly lines, welding automation, lift-assist tools for safety-critical operations, robotic cells, multi-station assembly systems, bonding and welding technologies, vision systems, and precision dispensing solutions such as high-viscosity pumps, impulse bag sealing, and needle bending. Working at Invio means making a direct impact on the future of American manufacturing. We are committed to improving the lives of those who partner with us by designing and integrating custom-engineered automation solutions that enhance safety, increase efficiency, and raise product quality for our customers. DESCRIPTION Our Factory of the Future Consulting team partners with manufacturers to develop automation strategies and identify opportunities for transformational improvement. We serve clients from Fortune 500 companies to privately held manufacturers across industries including Life Sciences, Renewable Energy, Mobility, Agriculture, Construction, Aerospace, and Industrial Products. Through on-site workshops and focused assessments, we identify and develop automation opportunities spanning Invio’s wider solution offering; AGVs, robotics, tooling, and other advanced manufacturing technologies. Our consultants collaborate closely with Invio’s design, engineering, estimating, and subject-matter experts to turn these opportunity concepts into practical, high-impact solutions. As a Simulation Applications Engineer on the Factory of the Future Consulting team, you will play a key role in the front-end development of automation projects. This position will utilize technical simulation modeling to help our Factory of the Future team evaluate project feasibility, optimizing system designs, and supporting the overall consulting delivery or sales and proposal process. You will work cross-functionally with other Applications and Design Engineers, Sales, and Project Managers to ensure accurate, efficient, and competitive automation solutions. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Develop 2D and 3D simulation models (FlexSim or Visual Components) to assess system performance, cycle times, throughput, and layout feasibility. Support Estimators in preparing or identifying inputs required for detailed costing activities for automation systems, including mechanical, controls, installation, materials, subcontracting, and labor. Analyze customer RFQs, concepts, and drawings to extract key estimating and simulation inputs. Collaborate with sales and proposal teams to develop and present compelling and accurate proposals. Refine concept models and simulation templates for standardization and efficiency. Support building and bolstering the internal Invio design libraries within Visual Components. Participate in design reviews, concept development, and customer presentations as needed. Travel to customer facilities for consulting workshop activities. Other duties as assigned. Qualifications: 4+ years of experience in automation, simulation engineering, or cost estimating. Proficiency in simulation tools (FlexSim or Visual Components). Strong understanding of mechanical automation systems, robotics, and production processes. Proficiency in reading and interpreting mechanical and electrical drawings. Experience using costing software, Excel models, or ERP/PLM quoting tools. Excellent communication skills with the ability to present technical findings clearly. Strong analytical mindset with attention to detail and accuracy. Other Skills and Abilities: Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (PowerPoint) or related software Proficiency with or the ability to quickly learn the organization’s ERP and Salesforce system Strategic thinker with the ability to translate business objectives into Invio’s sales initiatives Willingness to travel within North America, up to 50% of the time Position is listed as Remote in the United States, preferably within proximity to a major airport. Opportunity for in-person at any Invio facility location (MI, IL, MN, NH). EDUCATION Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Automation Technology, or a related field. Advanced degrees in business or engineering are a plus. INVIO AUTOMATION’S CORE VALUES We take pride in the reliability of our team and the difficult problems we solve for customers. We deliver real customer value that positively impacts the lives of those around us. We are dependable. Relationships and trust matter. Our ingenuity and desire to improve lives will complement our suite of solutions. We strive to demonstrate that our attention to detail does not start or end with the solutions we engineer and deliver. We believe exceptional service is better demonstrated than said.