Job Title: CNC Programmer & Applications Engineer – Swiss-Type Machining (Citizen & Tsugami)
Location: Canton, MI (with up to 70% travel in the U.S. and Europe)
Department: Applications Engineering
Reports To: CEO
Position Summary:
We are seeking a highly skilled and self-motivated CNC Programmer & Applications Engineer with deep expertise in Swiss-type CNC machines, specifically Citizen and Tsugami platforms. The ideal candidate will be responsible for programming, process optimization, and the integration of Pure Cut supercritical CO₂ technology to maximize machining performance, reduce cycle time, and improve tool life and reliability.
This role involves extensive domestic and international travel (up to 70%) to support customer installations, training, and performance tuning. The remaining time will be spent in our Canton, MI CNC lab, where process development, prototype testing, and internal R&D will occur.
Key Responsibilities:
- Program and optimize Swiss-type CNC machines (Citizen L12, L20, B12, A20 and Tsugami models) for a wide range of materials including PEEK, UHMWPE, Titanium, and Stainless Steel.
- Integrate and validate use of Pure Cut supercritical CO₂ delivery systems into customer machine tools to reach peak machining performance.
- Conduct on-site implementations, application trials, cycle time benchmarking, and tool life studies across customer facilities in the U.S. and Europe.
- Collaborate with customers to refine part programs, improve cutting strategies, and resolve application issues.
- Analyze and document performance data, including cycle time reductions, tool wear improvements, and surface finish quality.
- Provide technical training and support to end users, machine operators, and engineering teams.
- Support sales and product management teams with pre-sales technical input and demonstrations.
- Continuously evaluate new tooling, machine features, and best practices to keep solutions cutting-edge.
Required Qualifications:
- 5+ years of experience programming and setting up Swiss-type CNC lathes, preferably with Citizen and/or Tsugami machines.
- Proficient in G-code programming, CAM software (e.g., MAstercamPartMaker, Esprit, or similar), and Fanuc/Mitsubishi/Siemens controls.
- Proven background in high-precision medical, aerospace, or micromachining environments.
- Strong understanding of cutting tool geometries, materials, and coatings.
- Demonstrated experience in cycle time reduction, tool wear analysis, and advanced machining techniques.
- Familiarity with coolant delivery systems, especially supercritical CO₂ or MQL technologies, is strongly preferred.
- Willingness to travel extensively (up to 70%) and work independently in diverse customer environments.
Preferred Skills:
- Prior experience with Fusion Coolant Systems or high-performance dry and near-dry machining methods.
- Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills, both mechanical and process-related.
- Experience with process documentation, capability studies, and machining validation protocols.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills; able to interface with engineering, operators, and executives alike.
Location & Travel:
- Primary site: Canton, Michigan CNC Lab
-
70% travel to customer sites across the U.S. and Europe for installation, support, and training engagements.
What We Offer:
- Competitive compensation and travel stipend.
- Opportunity to work on cutting-edge CNC technology with supercritical CO₂ integration.
- Career growth in a rapidly evolving manufacturing solutions company focused on sustainability, precision, and performance.
- Hands-on, high-impact engineering role at the intersection of advanced machining, green technology, and global manufacturing.