Applications Engineering Manager

Company SummaryWe are a leading provider of advanced CNC machinery solutions, dedicated to supporting our clients with cutting-edge technology and exceptional service. Our organization fosters a supportive environment where employees can focus on their expertise, thrive in their careers, and deliver outstanding results to a diverse client base.Job SummaryThe Applications Engineering Manager will lead a group of Application Engineers (AEs) responsible for Illinois and Indiana territories. Key duties include optimizing AE schedules, effectively distributing team workload, overseeing smaller-scale turnkey initiatives, and stepping in to perform hands-on engineering tasks when necessary. This position involves spending time at customer facilities (anticipating 30-50% travel). The manager will strengthen the AE group to better support sales efforts, promote ongoing enhancement, and supply outstanding technical value. ResponsibilitiesWhile not exhaustive, primary duties encompass:Lead, grow, and mentor the applications engineering groupPartner with leadership and customer feedback to enhance AE skills, creating a competitive edge that strengthens the sales cycleEstablish an ongoing improvement initiative within the AE function through workshops, formal education, and practical on-the-job guidanceSupervise development of machining processes and time-study calculationsDirect smaller turnkey system implementations (with backing from a capable national project management group for larger-scale efforts)Contribute to the design of fixtures and toolingGenerate status updates and documentation for leadership and project specificationsCollaborate with and support service and sales teams to surpass client expectationsIdentify and cultivate income opportunities tied to engineering servicesOrganize instructional sessions for clients and internal personnelDeliver technical assistance to customers remotely and in-personFoster and sustain strong client partnershipsArrange and support equipment showcases at locations and industry eventsBuild and nurture connections with OEMs, suppliers, and partnersEvaluate, utilize, and suggest CAD/CAM platformsDocument and track client concerns and service requests accuratelyEnthusiastically engage in additional relevant tasks as requiredOverall approach: Strong attention to detail combined with proactive execution, capacity to inspire loyalty and commitment within the team, and personal drive to elevate customers' manufacturing performance.RequirementsAt least 5 years of experience in applications engineering within the machine tool sectorIn-depth expertise with FANUC controlsProficiency in CAD/CAM programming toolsFriendly, polished, and client-oriented personalityExcellent organizational abilities with strategic, big-picture thinking (for scheduling, resource planning, and team leadership)Readiness for 30-50% travel to client locationsEagerness to acquire new skills and technologies (for example, Siemens controls can be mastered during employment)Preferred RequirementsPrevious supervisory or team-lead experience (though we welcome high-performing individual contributors—such as experienced AEs ready to step into leadership—with superior planning and motivational abilities)Familiarity with 5-axis machining processesComfort performing direct AE fieldwork as situations demandCompensation & BenefitsEstimated Base Salary Range: $100,000 – $130,000 plus bonusBenefits Package: Medical coverage, dental insurance, 401(k) planTravel Support: Vehicle allowance, gas card, daily per diem Location & Work ArrangementPrimary Territory: Illinois and Indiana, with occasional extension into Kentucky based on project demandsWork Model: Hybrid setup — option to work remotely, but presence in the office is expected for about half the workweekThis position provides the chance to guide an accomplished team in an expanding organization while staying actively engaged in technical, customer-centric work within the machine tool sector.

Salary : $100,000 - $130,000