Applications Designer & Estimator

ProVantage Automation is a leading systems integrator specializing in customized factory automation solutions for the food & beverage, packaging, and paper converting industries across North America. From turnkey primary and secondary packaging lines to custom machinery designed in-house, we engineer, build, and deliver high-performance automation systems that help CPG clients gain a competitive edge.
Why Join ProVantage?
Challenging, high-impact projects with exciting, hands-on applications
A collaborative, innovative culture where your voice matters
Competitive compensation and benefits including group pension, medical/dental, and travel reimbursement
A state-of-the-art Automation Technology Center for prototyping, testing, and machine development
A values-driven team anchored by our STAR principles:
Safety: No one gets hurt.
Trust: We take you at your word.
Accountability: Say what you do, do what you say.
Respect: Mutual and required, whether it's someone's opinion, time or effort.
About the RoleThis is a full-time role with base hours from 8:00AM until 4:30PM, Monday through Friday.
As an Applications Designer/Estimator, you’ll play a key role in driving growth by shaping technical automation proposals for some of North America’s top packaging and manufacturing companies. You will engage directly with clients to understand their production challenges, conceptualize solutions, and develop clear, compelling proposals that bridge vision with execution.
This is a highly collaborative role, interfacing with sales, project management, and engineering. You will manage the development of automation solutions from napkin sketches to a fully scoped projects including cost, schedule, and performance objectives. You will translate all this into a formal quote document and then present to client teams.
Key Responsibilities
Work directly with clients to understand manufacturing needs and automation opportunities.
Develop tailored automation concepts that address client challenges and align with their production goals.
Generate detailed technical proposals including scope, schedule, cost estimates, and success criteria.
Collaborate with internal proposal, design, and engineering teams to refine concepts.
Present automation solutions to clients and internal stakeholders, highlighting competitive advantages.
Participate in on-site discovery visits (typically 2–3 days/month of travel).
Document client requirements, identify technical risks, and define project parameters.Assist with internal project hand-offs and ensure alignment between proposed and delivered solutions.
Leverage standardized tools such as proposal templates, costing models, and concept CAD tools.
Qualifications & Experience
Degree or diploma in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent experience).
5+ years of experience in automation, packaging machinery, or custom equipment design.
Proficiency in reading mechanical drawings and part prints;
ability to develop basic CAD layouts.
Understanding of controls architecture, pneumatics, and manufacturing systems preferred.
Strong interpersonal and presentation skills with experience communicating technical solutions to clients.
Comfort working in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary team environment.
Experience in quoting, estimating, or technical pre-sales is a strong asset.
Curious, solutions-driven mindset with a hands-on approach to problem solving.
Competitive salary based on experience ($100K - $140K / yr)
Group benefits including DPSP, health, dental and vision
Yearly health spending account with 1 year roll over
Paid travel and expenses
Professional development and growth in a collaborative, innovation-focused company
ProVantage Automation is committed to workplace diversity and inclusion. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and will provide accommodations throughout the recruitment process as required.
AI DisclosureProV does not use AI to screen, assess, or select candidates.
Vacancy DisclosureThis posting is for an existing vacancy.
#J-18808-Ljbffr