Application Engineer (CNC)

Job Description

Kensington360 is partnering with an established precision engineering organisation serving the aerospace and gas turbine industries to recruit an experienced CNC Applications Engineer / Programmer with strong Siemens NX expertise.

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This hands-on engineering position focuses on developing CNC machining programmes, optimising manufacturing processes and introducing advanced tooling strategies for complex, high-value components.

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Working closely with manufacturing engineers, machinists and tooling specialists, you will play a key role in improving machining efficiency, product quality and overall manufacturing performance.

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Key Responsibilities

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• Develop, create and modify CNC programmes using Siemens NX CAD/CAM software.
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• Generate and optimise toolpaths for 3, 4 and 5-axis milling, turning and grinding operations.
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• Analyse engineering drawings and specifications to determine effective machining strategies.
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• Develop machining setups, select cutting tools and produce detailed setup documentation.
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• Verify CNC toolpaths using VERICUT simulation software.
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• Design and improve machining processes for complex, precision-engineered components.
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• Collaborate on the development of fixtures, workholding solutions and inspection gauges.
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• Evaluate cutting tools and machining strategies for high-temperature superalloys used in gas turbine applications.
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• Support New Product Introduction, prototype development and manufacturing process improvements.
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• Work directly with machinists to troubleshoot programming and machining issues.
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• Provide training and technical guidance to shop-floor personnel.
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• Partner with quality teams to investigate non-conformances and implement corrective actions.
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• Conduct machining time studies and review job costs to improve manufacturing efficiency.
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• Maintain accurate technical documentation and support AS9100 quality requirements.
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Candidate Requirements

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Essential:

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• 7–10 years of machine shop experience involving CNC milling, turning and/or grinding.
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• 5–7 years of professional CNC programming experience.
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• Strong, demonstrable experience with Siemens NX CAM, including version 1926 or higher.
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• Experience programming multi-axis CNC machining operations.
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• Strong understanding of cutting tools, machining parameters and tooling strategies for superalloys.
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• Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and specifications.
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• Experience developing CNC machining setups and improving manufacturing processes.
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• Strong problem-solving abilities and a hands-on approach to engineering challenges.
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• Ability to work independently and collaborate across engineering and production teams.
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• Must meet applicable ITAR U.S. Person requirements.
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Desirable:

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• Experience with FANUC and Okuma CNC controls.
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• Working knowledge of VERICUT simulation software.
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• Previous experience in aerospace, gas turbine or precision engineering environments.
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• Familiarity with AS9100 quality management standards.
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• Experience with fixture design, tooling optimisation and process development.
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Benefits

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• Competitive compensation package.
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• Medical, dental and vision insurance.
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• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching.
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• Nine paid holidays annually and paid vacation.
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• Life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage.
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• Health Savings Account and flexible spending programmes.
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• Clean, climate-controlled manufacturing environment.
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• Opportunities for technical development and career progression.
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Apply

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If you're an experienced CNC Programmer with strong Siemens NX expertise and a passion for advanced machining technology, we'd welcome a confidential conversation.