Application Engineer

Position SummaryProcess Development and OptimizationDevelop, test, and refine grinding processes for CNC precision grinding machines to achieve customer specifications for accuracy, quality, and performance.Create and optimize CNC programs, macros, and parametric code to support machine functionality and process requirements.Evaluate grinding results and implement process improvements to enhance repeatability, efficiency, and cycle times.CNC Programming and AutomationDevelop, implement, and troubleshoot G-code and M-code programs for grinding, probing, turning, tool changes, and related machine functions.Utilize Fanuc CNC controls and associated software tools to optimize machine performance.Support the development of machine user interfaces, automation features, and data collection systems as needed.Cross-Functional Engineering CollaborationCollaborate with Mechanical, Electrical, Controls, and Design Engineering teams to translate application requirements into functional machine processes.Ensure grinding processes and CNC programs are properly integrated with machine design, controls, and automation systems.Participate in engineering reviews and provide technical input to improve machine functionality, reliability, and overall application performance.Machine Testing and ValidationSupport machine runoffs, acceptance testing, and process validation to ensure equipment meets established performance requirements.Conduct application testing, analyze grinding results, and troubleshoot issues involving machine performance, programming, tooling, and process parameters.Implement necessary programming and process adjustments to achieve customer specifications before machine delivery and acceptance.Customer Support and TrainingProvide applications engineering support during machine assembly, installation, commissioning, and customer acceptance.Train customers on grinding processes, CNC programming techniques, and machine operation.Work with customers, sales, and service teams to resolve application-related challenges and identify opportunities for performance improvement.Communicate technical information clearly to internal teams and external stakeholders.Sales and Proposal SupportAssist sales and applications teams with technical evaluations, application feasibility assessments, and machine configuration recommendations.Develop process estimates, cycle-time studies, and tooling recommendations to support customer proposals.Contribute to machine layout reviews and preliminary application planning to ensure proposed solutions align with customer requirements.Continuous ImprovementIdentify and implement opportunities to improve grinding performance, process efficiency, machine reliability, and customer outcomes.Participate in design and process reviews to enhance repeatability, reduce cycle times, and support continuous product improvement.Travel RequirementsTravel to customer and vendor locations as needed, typically up to 35%, to support application development, machine installation, troubleshooting, and customer training.Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesProficiency in CNC programming, including G-code, M-code, macros, and parametric programming.Understanding of precision grinding processes, grinding wheels, tooling, and machine tool applications.Familiarity with Fanuc CNC controls and related programming environments.Working knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, and general machine tool functionality.Demonstrated troubleshooting, analytical, and process optimization skills.Experience developing or refining CNC machining or grinding processes to meet demanding quality and dimensional requirements.Experience with C# programming and Visual Studio for developing user interfaces, machine functionality, or data collection systems.Familiarity with 3D CAD/CAM software; experience with Siemens NX or SolidWorks is preferred.Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across engineering, sales, service, and customer-facing teams.Education and QualificationsApproximately 2-5+ years of practical experience in applications engineering, CNC programming, or a related technical discipline.Experience with CNC grinding applications, precision manufacturing, machine tools, or comparable manufacturing technologies is preferred.Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field is preferred; equivalent practical experience may also be considered.