Applications Engineer

Job Description 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. Meet Your RecruiterTami Van 630-359-2131 Connect on LinkedIn 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. As one of the most respected names in engineering staffing, Sterling has hundreds of opportunities with top employers. If you've got a friend or colleague seeking their next move in engineering, we could have their next opportunity. We offer a referral bonus for every referral that we place. Submit referral now.

Created: 2026-03-04