Application Engineer (CNC)

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.

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

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.

Key Responsibilities

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

Candidate Requirements

Essential:

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

Desirable:

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

Benefits

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

Apply

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.