Application Engineer

Location: Elgin, IL (Onsite)
Compensation: Up to $105,000 base salary
, commensurate with experience
Travel: 25–50% (domestic and occasional international)

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.

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.

Review customer part requirements to determine fixturing, cutting tools, grinding wheels, and machining processes for standard and turnkey projects

Develop, test, and validate machining processes in support of machine sales

Perform machine demonstrations, time studies, feasibility studies
, and process evaluations

Conduct process acceptance, installation, training, and runoff at customer sites and in‑house

Provide technical application support to customers, sales teams, and distributors (on‑site and remote)

Support trade shows, open houses
, and customer events with application expertise

Assist with prototype machine testing
, including PLC and control software options

Participate in ongoing technical training to stay current with CNC controls and machining technologies

Associate’s Degree in Engineering or Technical Certification preferred

Non‑degreed candidates considered with strong, relevant experience

5–7 years of CNC machine tool experience focused on grinding and/or turning applications

Prior customer‑facing or applications experience preferred

Working knowledge of Siemens, Fanuc, and Mitsubishi CNC controls

Experience with G‑code and conversational programming

CAD/CAM CNC programming experience

Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point , and Solid Works

ERP experience (JD Edwards or similar) is a plus

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Ability to work effectively in a cross‑functional environment

Comfortable representing the company in customer‑facing situations

Ability to stand for extended periods

Ability to lift up to 35 lbs

Travel expected 25–50%, including potential international travel

Base salary up to $105,000