Applications Engineer - CAM Programming

Applications Engineer – CAM Programming

Overview

The Applications Engineer – CAM Programming owns the path from print or model to a proven, production-ready process. This role programs new parts in CAM, designs and selects the tooling, proves out the program and tooling at the machine, and hands off a complete, documented job that machinists can run repeatably.

The Applications Engineer is the bridge between engineering, quality, and the shop floor. They use capability data such as Cpk to drive tooling and programming improvements, partner with Quality on inspection requirements for new products, and lead continuous improvement in tooling, programming, machine capability, setup, and manufacturing processes.

Key Responsibilities

New Part Development — Print / Model to Production

• Take in prints and 3D models, review them for manufacturability, and plan the process — operations, machine selection, workholding, and tooling.
• Build and modify CAD models to support programming — stock and in-process models, fixtures, and simplified geometry for toolpath generation.
• Program parts in CAM software (Esprit preferred) for Mill Turn and 5-axis work, verify toolpaths through simulation, and post clean, machine-ready code.
• Prove out new programs and tooling at the machine — run first articles, optimize feeds, speeds, and cycle time, and resolve program, tool, and setup issues to first good part.

Tool Design and Selection

• Select cutting tools, holders, and workholding for each job. Own the tool selection logic and standardize tooling across the part mix where possible.
• Design custom tooling, form tools, and fixtures for complex features. Evaluate vendor options and obtain quotes for new tooling.
• Maintain CAM tool libraries and coordinate with the Productivity Cabinet so tooling called out in programs is available on the floor.

Production Handoff and Documentation

• Create setup sheets, tool lists, and run instructions for every released job so machinists can set up and run production without engineering at the machine.
• Write job aids, SOPs, and work instructions covering critical setups, offsets, in-process checks, and known watch-outs.
• Hand off proven jobs to the Machinist team, train on new setups, and remain the point of contact for program and tooling questions through production ramp-up.
• Maintain revision control on programs and setup documentation so the floor is always running the current released version.

Quality and Process Capability

• Work closely with Quality on new products to define part inspection requirements, critical characteristics, CMM programs, and in-process gauging.
• Review capability statistics (Cp / Cpk) and inspection data to identify incapable or drifting dimensions.
• Improve repeatability through tooling, workholding, toolpath, and programming package changes, and confirm results with follow-up capability data.

Continuous Improvement

• Drive continuous improvement in tooling, programming, machine capability, setup, and manufacturing processes.
• Reduce cycle time, changeover time, and tooling cost while maintaining or improving quality.
• Feed lessons learned from machinists and Quality back into programs, templates, and standard tooling to prevent recurrence.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $37.00 - $50.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Why are you a good fit for SCT Manufacturing and this role?

Experience:

• related: 3 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person