Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced CNC Programmer / Application Engineer to support advanced machining applications, develop optimized CNC programs, and improve manufacturing processes for customers and internal operations. This role requires strong hands-on CNC programming experience, ideally with multi-axis milling and turning equipment, along with a demonstrated ability to troubleshoot machining challenges and drive continuous process improvement.
The ideal candidate combines technical machining expertise with strong problem-solving, communication, and customer-facing skills. This position involves approximately 40–50% travel, with individual trips typically limited to one week or less.
Key Responsibilities
CNC Programming & Machining Applications- Develop, modify, and optimize CNC programs for milling and turning applications, including multi-axis machining centers and lathes.
- Evaluate machining requirements, part geometry, materials, tooling, and machine capabilities to develop effective manufacturing solutions.
- Support the implementation of new machining applications, processes, and production methods.
- Troubleshoot programming, machining, tooling, and process-related issues to improve performance and reliability.
Process Optimization & Continuous Improvement- Analyze existing machining processes to identify opportunities to improve cycle times, tool life, part quality, and overall equipment utilization.
- Optimize cutting parameters, toolpaths, workholding strategies, and machining sequences.
- Develop and implement process improvements that reduce scrap, minimize downtime, and improve manufacturing efficiency.
- Validate machining processes and document best practices, recommendations, and results.
- Collaborate with customers, manufacturing teams, and technical personnel to resolve complex machining challenges.
Application Engineering & Customer Support- Provide on-site and remote technical support for CNC programming, machining applications, and process optimization.
- Work directly with customers to understand application requirements, evaluate current processes, and recommend improvements.
- Conduct machine demonstrations, application trials, process validations, and technical training as needed.
- Assist with machine installations, new application development, and production startup activities when applicable.
- Build strong customer relationships through responsive technical support and practical, results-oriented solutions.
Travel & Project Execution- Travel approximately 40–50% of the time to customer facilities, manufacturing sites, and other locations as needed.
- Plan and execute customer visits, application trials, troubleshooting activities, and improvement projects.
- Manage travel schedules efficiently, with individual trips generally lasting no more than one week at a time.
- Communicate project status, technical findings, and recommendations to customers and internal stakeholders.
Required Qualifications
- Multiple years of hands-on CNC programming experience in a manufacturing or machining environment.
- Strong understanding of CNC machining principles, tooling, workholding, cutting parameters, and machining strategies.
- Experience programming and supporting CNC milling and/or turning operations.
- Demonstrated experience with process optimization and continuous improvement in machining or manufacturing operations.
- Ability to troubleshoot complex machining issues and develop practical, data-driven solutions.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and interact effectively with customers and cross-functional teams.
- Willingness and ability to travel approximately 40–50%, with trips typically limited to one week or less.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with multi-axis CNC machining, including 4-axis and 5-axis mills and multi-axis or mill-turn lathes.
- Experience with CAM programming software and toolpath optimization.
- Familiarity with a variety of CNC machine controls, tooling systems, and machining technologies.
- Experience improving cycle times, tool life, surface finish, dimensional accuracy, and overall process capability.
- Background in application engineering, manufacturing engineering, field service, or technical customer support.
- Experience conducting customer training, machining demonstrations, process validations, or new application development.
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing, root-cause analysis, and continuous improvement methodologies.
Key Competencies
- Advanced CNC programming and machining knowledge
- Process optimization and manufacturing efficiency
- Technical troubleshooting and root-cause analysis
- Customer-focused problem-solving
- Clear technical communication and training
- Project management and time management
- Adaptability in a hands-on, customer-facing environment
Travel Requirements
This position requires approximately 40–50% travel, primarily to customer facilities and manufacturing sites. Travel may include day trips and overnight stays, with individual trips generally not exceeding five business days or one week. The successful candidate must be comfortable working directly with customers in a variety of manufacturing environments.
Measures of Success
Success in this role will be measured by the ability to:
- Develop reliable, efficient, and optimized CNC machining programs.
- Deliver measurable improvements in machining productivity, cycle time, tool life, and part quality.
- Resolve customer application and machining challenges effectively.
- Successfully implement new applications and process improvements.
- Build and maintain strong customer relationships.
- Execute customer projects and travel commitments safely, efficiently, and professionally.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate is a hands-on CNC programming professional who understands both the technical details of machining and the broader objectives of manufacturing efficiency. They enjoy solving complex machining problems, optimizing processes, and working directly with customers to achieve measurable results. Experience with multi-axis mills and lathes is highly desirable, as is the ability to translate machining expertise into practical application solutions.
You should be proficient in:
- CNC Tooling
- CNC Programming
- CNC Machine Repair
- G-Code
- M-Code
- Machine Geometry & Alignment
Machines & technologies you'll use:
- CNC Mill (3-4 axis VMC)
- CNC Lathe (2-4 axis)
- CNC Swiss Lathe
- CAM Software (Esprit, Mastercam, GibbsCAM, Siemens NX)
- CNC Mill (5+ axis VMC)
- CNC Lathe (5+ axis)