Application Engineer, Chain

PEER CHAIN & SPROCKETS IS LOOKING FOR A PRODUCT MANAGER - LOCAL CANDIDATES ENCOURAGED TO APPLY

Since 1969, the PEER Chain family has been a strong and reliable source of industrial chain. We are a family business connected by links forged over years of excellent service, quality and expertise. Our family is passionately committed to providing product genius and over‑the‑top service designed to keep our customers’ businesses running. We pledge to provide unsurpassed support while delivering high quality chains and sprockets.

This role bridges engineering expertise with customer application needs, providing advanced technical guidance in chain and sprocket selection, application analysis, and problem solving. The position partners closely with Sales, Product Management, and Supply Chain to support business growth, improve product fit, and drive customer success.

• Analyze customer applications and recommend optimal chain and sprocket solutions based on load, speed, environment, and duty cycle.
• Perform detailed chain selection, including size, pitch, material, attachments, and lubrication requirements.
• Provide integrated solutions to customers with consideration of chain, sprocket, tensioner and their layout.
• Troubleshoot field issues and conduct root cause failure analysis (wear, elongation, fatigue, misalignment, lubrication, overload).
• Prepare technical reports, application recommendations, and customer‑facing documentation.
• Provide technical support to Sales, including participation in customer visits and OEM engagements.
• Support specification development and influence OEM approvals and product positioning.
• Collaborate with Product Management to identify application gaps, over‑specification, and continuous improvement opportunities.
• Communicate effectively with Supply Chain on technical requirements vs. supply constraints to support sourcing and localization.
• Align global part numbers and specifications with real‑world applications and support standardization initiatives.

• Chain and sprocket engineering fundamentals, including engagement mechanics and tooth profile design.
• Lubrication methods, wear mechanisms, and fatigue behavior under varying operating conditions.
• Understanding of shock loads, elongation, and system dynamics in power transmission systems.
• Strong diagnostic capability for identifying and resolving field performance issues.

• Competitive salary
• Flexible hours
• Health, dental and vision insurance
• 401(k)
• Profit sharing plan
• STD, LTD and life insurance
• Generous PTO policy and paid holidays

• Position works out of headquarters located in Waukegan, IL USA.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in application engineering, technical sales, or product engineering within power transmission (chain and sprocket preferred).
• Strong working knowledge of roller chain systems and industrial applications.
• Experience supporting or working with industrial distributors and OEMs.
• Proven ability to influence technical decisions and support commercial outcomes.

• Strong blend of technical expertise and commercial acumen.
• Ability to translate application insight into practical, revenue‑generating solutions.
• Effective communicator with engineers, purchasing teams, and sales professionals.
• Proactive, solutions‑oriented problem solver with a continuous improvement mindset.

• Background in agriculture, material handling, or similar industries.
• Customer‑facing experience in technical or sales environments.

Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.