CNC Machining Programmer

Job Title: CNC Machining Programmer

Location: Lincolnshire, IL - Onsite

Job Type: Fulltime and Permanent

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and technically strong Application Engineer to provide machining process support, CNC programming, and customer technical training to ensure optimal machine performance and productivity. This role will be responsible for developing machining programs, conducting test cuts, troubleshooting machining issues, and delivering customized process solutions to meet customer production requirements. The ideal candidate will bring strong CNC machining expertise, CAD/CAM proficiency, excellent customer communication skills, and the ability to support both pre-sales and after-sales engineering activities.

Key Responsibilities

1. Develop, optimize, and debug CNC machining programs for various control systems such as Fanuc and Siemens.
2. Select appropriate cutting tools, tooling setups, and machining parameters including feeds and speeds for efficient production.
3. Conduct machine prove-outs and test cuts to validate machining performance, accuracy, and cycle time improvements.
4. Provide technical training to customers on machine operation, CNC programming, preventive maintenance, and best practices.
5. Collaborate with sales teams to provide technical pre-sales support including demonstrations, feasibility reviews, and customer presentations.
6. Support service teams with after-sales troubleshooting, machine process optimization, and customer issue resolution.
7. Analyze machining challenges related to tooling wear, tolerances, finishes, and productivity, then recommend effective corrective actions.
8. Improve customer machining processes to enhance throughput, reduce downtime, and maintain product quality standards.
9. Assist in preparing machining demonstrations, sample components, cycle studies, and process documentation.
10. Create setup sheets, tooling lists, operation instructions, and other technical documentation for customer projects.
11. Maintain working knowledge of CAD/CAM software for generating and modifying machining programs.
12. Track machine problems, service activities, and process improvements through ERP systems or internal tracking tools.
13. Follow up on open technical issues until full resolution and customer satisfaction is achieved.
14. Stay updated with the latest manufacturing technologies, cutting tools, automation trends, and machining strategies.
15. Travel domestically and internationally as required for customer support, training, installations, and demonstrations.
16. Perform additional engineering and technical duties as assigned by management.

Required Qualifications

1. 5+ years of CNC machining and programming experience (Senior level: 15+ years).
2. Hands-on experience in developing, optimizing, and debugging CNC programs for control systems such as Fanuc and Siemens.
3. Strong proficiency with CAD/CAM software for machining program creation and process optimization.
4. Strong knowledge of cutting theory, tooling selection, feeds, speeds, and machining parameters.
5. Practical experience in conducting test cuts, proving out programs, and validating machining performance.
6. Experience in troubleshooting machining issues and improving production efficiency, cycle time, and part quality.