Application Engineer

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)

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
• Comprehensive benefits package including:
  • Health insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Life insurance
  • Long‑term disability insurance
  • Paid vacation and paid holidays