Application Engineer – CNC Grinding & Turning
Location: Elgin, IL (Onsite)
Compensation: Up to $105,000 base salary, commensurate with experience
Travel: 25–50% (domestic and occasional international)
Why Work Here?
This opportunity is with a well-established, globally respected CNC machine tool manufacturer known for precision engineering, long-term customer relationships, and advanced grinding and turning technology.
The company offers a stable, engineering-driven culture where application engineers are viewed as technical experts and trusted partners to customers — not just support staff.
Position Overview
The Application Engineer is responsible for CNC process development related to grinding and turning applications, including tooling selection, testing, startup, installation, customer acceptance, and runoff for high-precision CNC machine tools.
This is a hands-on, customer-facing role that combines machining expertise, problem-solving, and collaboration across sales, engineering, and service teams.
Key Responsibilities
1. Review customer part requirements to determine fixturing, cutting tools, grinding wheels, and machining processes for standard and turnkey projects
2. Develop, test, and validate machining processes in support of machine sales
3. Perform machine demonstrations, time studies, feasibility studies, and process evaluations
4. Conduct process acceptance, installation, training, and runoff at customer sites and in-house
5. Provide technical application support to customers, sales teams, and distributors (on-site and remote)
6. Support trade shows, open houses, and customer events with application expertise
7. Assist with prototype machine testing, including PLC and control software options
8. Participate in ongoing technical training to stay current with CNC controls and machining technologies
Required Qualifications
Education
9. Associate’s Degree in Engineering or Technical Certification preferred
10. Non-degreed candidates considered with strong, relevant experience
Experience
11. 5–7 years of CNC machine tool experience focused on grinding and/or turning applications
12. Prior customer-facing or applications experience preferred
Technical Skills
13. Working knowledge of Siemens, Fanuc, and Mitsubishi CNC controls
14. Experience with G-code and conversational programming
15. CAD/CAM CNC programming experience
16. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and SolidWorks
17. ERP experience (JD Edwards or similar) is a plus
Professional Skills
18. Strong verbal and written communication skills
19. Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional environment
20. Comfortable representing the company in customer-facing situations
Physical & Travel Requirements
21. Ability to stand for extended periods
22. Ability to lift up to 35 lbs
23. Travel expected 25–50%, including potential international travel
Compensation & Benefits
24. Base salary up to $105,000
25. Comprehensive benefits package including:
Health insurance
401(k)
Life insurance
Long-term disability insurance
Paid vacation and paid holidays