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

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

Required Qualifications Education

Associate’s Degree in Engineering or Technical Certification preferred

Non-degreed candidates considered with strong, relevant experience

Experience

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

Prior customer-facing or applications experience preferred

Technical Skills

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, PowerPoint, and SolidWorks

ERP experience (JD Edwards or similar) is a plus

Professional Skills

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional environment

Comfortable representing the company in customer-facing situations

Physical & Travel Requirements

Ability to stand for extended periods

Ability to lift up to 35 lbs

Travel expected 25–50%, including potential international travel

Compensation & Benefits

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