Computer Numerical Control Programmer

Our client, a well-established and growing CNC automation solutions provider, is seeking an experienced Applications Engineer to join their technical team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys combining hands-on CNC expertise with customer interaction to develop innovative machining solutions, optimize manufacturing processes, and support advanced automation technologies. This highly visible role serves as the technical bridge between customers, sales, engineering, and manufacturing. The ideal candidate has extensive experience programming CNC machines from scratch, developing machining strategies using CAD/CAM software, selecting tooling and workholding, and driving process optimization to improve quality, cycle times, and overall manufacturing efficiency. If you're passionate about machining technology, continuous improvement, and helping customers maximize productivity, this is an outstanding opportunity to make a significant impact. Position Summary The Applications Engineer will develop and validate machining processes, create CNC programs, support equipment demonstrations, and provide technical expertise throughout the sales and implementation process. This role requires strong technical knowledge, excellent communication skills, and the ability to build trusted relationships with customers while identifying opportunities to improve manufacturing performance. Travel is expected for customer visits, vendor meetings, machine demonstrations, and industry trade shows. Responsibilities Develop CNC machining programs from scratch for customer applications and demonstrations. Utilize CAD/CAM software to create efficient machining strategies and toolpaths. Evaluate customer part prints and manufacturing requirements to develop optimized machining processes. Recommend tooling, workholding, fixturing, cutting parameters, and automation solutions that improve productivity and reduce cycle times. Identify opportunities for process optimization, continuous improvement, and increased manufacturing efficiency. Conduct machine demonstrations, application prove-outs, and customer acceptance trials. Partner with Sales, Engineering, and customers to deliver customized manufacturing solutions. Troubleshoot machining, programming, tooling, and process-related challenges. Provide technical support throughout the sales cycle and implementation process. Represent the company at customer facilities, vendor events, and industry trade shows. Stay current on emerging CNC technologies, automation trends, tooling advancements, and manufacturing best practices. Qualifications 3+ years of CNC programming experience in a manufacturing, machine tool, or automation environment. Proven ability to write CNC programs from scratch. Strong CAD/CAM programming experience with the ability to develop efficient machining strategies. In-depth knowledge of machining processes, tooling, workholding, fixturing, and process optimization. Experience improving manufacturing efficiency through cycle time reduction, tooling optimization, and continuous improvement initiatives. Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD