Field Application Engineer

Job TitleAFC Industries is a dynamic organization dedicated to providing supply chain management solutions for fasteners and assembly components to original equipment manufacturers, assembly plants, and other users of these products.We support a diverse industry base of manufacturers across a broad range of industries. Our experienced team has a proven track record of helping manufacturers and assemblers reduce cost, improve quality, and increase efficiency.We are A Company Culture Devoted to Innovation & ImprovementAFC provides localized expertise to customers in particular industries and geographies. We don't have a traditional hierarchical management structure where everyone simply "reports up." Instead, our company is made up of on-the-ground experts operating in an entrepreneurial fashion with the backing and support of an enterprise-grade organization.Sharing cultural values breeds consistency and quality throughout our organization. Collectively, we are committed to a simple management approach, which influences our company culture and our management style.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and close business opportunities by delivering engineered cutting tool solutions that improve machining performance, productivity, and cost efficiencyProvide on-site technical support at customer facilities, including troubleshooting machining issues, optimizing tooling and cutting parameters, and improving process stabilityConduct detailed manufacturing line audits (with emphasis on CNC machining, metal cutting, and tool performance) to identify productivity gains, cost savings, and new business opportunitiesLead Value Analysis / Value Engineering initiatives focused on cycle-time reduction, tool life improvement, scrap reduction, and overall cost-per-part optimizationSupport and execute tooling trials, run-offs, and process validations for new and existing applicationsCollaborate with customers' manufacturing, process engineering, and production teams to resolve technical challenges related to cutting tools, tool wear, surface finish, and dimensional controlAssist in new product launches by supporting APQP processes, including manufacturability reviews, tooling selection, and process capability optimizationWork closely with cutting tool manufacturers and vendors to resolve tool performance or quality issues and recommend improvementsDrive standardization and consolidation of cutting tools and machining processes to reduce complexity and total cost of ownershipParticipate in customer business reviews and provide technical insights tied to performance metrics and continuous improvement initiativesDeliver technical training for customers and internal teams on topics such as cutting tool selection, machining fundamentals, tool wear analysis, and advanced metal cutting strategiesCollaborate cross-functionally (Sales, Quality, Sourcing, Operations) to ensure timely resolution of technical and commercial issuesSupport customer R&D and process development initiatives through application engineering and tooling recommendations (without assuming product design ownership)Ensure all activities align with ISO standards, safety practices, and risk mitigation to protect both the customer and organizationProfessional Experience RequirementsEducationBachelor's degree in engineering (Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial) or related technical field, or equivalent hands-on machining/application experience.Work ExperienceMinimum of 5 years of experience in a cutting tool application, machining environment, or metalworking industryStrong background supporting customers on the shop floor, including CNC machining centers (milling, turning, drilling, tapping, etc.)Demonstrated experience optimizing cutting parameters, tool selection, and machining processesExperience working directly with customers to troubleshoot and resolve technical production issuesExperience with cutting tool materials and technologies (carbide, coatings, geometries, high-speed machining, etc.)Knowledge of relevant industry standards (ANSI, ISO, ASME) and machining best practicesProfessional SkillsStrong problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose machining issues and implement effective, data-driven solutionsExcellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex machining concepts to operators, engineers, and executivesProven ability to manage multiple projects, customer priorities, and field activities independentlyHands-on, solution-oriented mindset with a high level of mechanical aptitudeAbility to build credibility and trust with customers through technical expertise and responsivenessSalary Target is 100k plus depending on experienceBenefits:401(k)401(k) matchingDental insuranceFlexible spending accountHealth insuranceLife insurancePaid time offVision insuranceWe are an AA/EEO/Veterans/Disabled employer.