Applications Engineer

Applications Engineer – CNC Grinding & Turning

Location : Elgin, IL

Industry : CNC Machine Tool OEM (Grinding & Turning Equipment)

Compensation : Up to $100,000 (based on experience)

Travel : 25–50% (domestic with some international)

Visa Sponsorship : Not available

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Applications Engineer to support the process development, testing, startup, installation, and customer acceptance of Kellenberger CNC grinding and turning machine tools. This is a hands-on, customer-facing role that supports sales, installations, and ongoing technical success for a global OEM.

This position is ideal for a CNC professional with strong grinding experience who enjoys working directly with customers and solving complex machining challenges.

Key Responsibilities

Review customer part requirements and prints to determine fixturing, tooling, grinding wheels, and machining processes

Develop, test, and validate machining processes for standard and turnkey CNC grinding projects

Perform machine demonstrations, feasibility studies, time studies, and sample part evaluations to support sales

Conduct factory and on-site process acceptance, installation support, and operator training

Provide technical phone and on-site support to customers, sales teams, and distributors

Support trade shows and open house events with application expertise

Assist with prototype machine testing, including PLC and control software option validation

Stay current with CNC and grinding technology through ongoing training

Required Experience & Skills

5–7 years of CNC machine tool experience with a focus on grinding and turning applications

Hands-on experience with Siemens, Fanuc, and / or Mitsubishi controls

Strong knowledge of G-code and conversational programming

Experience with CAD / CAM CNC programming

Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and SolidWorks

Comfortable working cross-functionally with engineering, sales, and service teams

Strong verbal and written communication skills with a professional customer-facing presence

Education

Associate’s Degree in Engineering or Technical Certification preferred

Equivalent hands-on CNC experience will be considered in lieu of formal education

Physical & Travel Requirements

Ability to stand for extended periods

Ability to lift up to 35 lbs

Willingness to travel 25–50%, including occasional international travel

Benefits

Competitive salary up to $100k

Health, life, and long-term disability insurance

401(k)

Paid vacation and holidays

If you want, I can also :

Create a LinkedIn outreach message

Build a Boolean search string for grinding Applications Engineers

Write a short Indeed version or text blast

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.