Mediabistro logo
job logo

Application Engineer

Scnteam, Grand Rapids, MI, United States


Technical Application Engineer – Cutting Tools (Michigan Territory)

Location:

Remote – Based in Grand Rapids, MI

Territory:

Michigan (primarily Lower Peninsula – southern region)

Position Overview
We are seeking a Technical Application Engineer to support sales growth and customer success across Michigan, with a strong focus on the southern portion of the Lower Peninsula. This role serves as the key technical resource for both end users and distribution partners, specializing in solid carbide cutting tools for CNC machining applications.

The company’s portfolio consists of approximately 80% engineered/specialty tooling and 20% standard catalog tooling, requiring a highly consultative, solutions-oriented approach. This individual will play a critical role in optimizing machining processes, improving tool performance, and driving value-added solutions in metal removal applications.

Key Responsibilities

Provide hands‑on technical support to end users, including tool selection, application optimization, and troubleshooting in CNC machining environments

Collaborate closely with the sales team to identify opportunities for engineered (specialty) tooling solutions

Evaluate customer machining processes and recommend improvements to increase efficiency, tool life, and productivity

Support and develop distribution partners through joint sales calls, training, and application guidance

Act as the primary technical liaison between customers, sales, and internal engineering/manufacturing teams

Assist in quoting and developing custom tooling solutions based on customer requirements, prints, and machining challenges

Conduct on‑site test cuts, prove‑outs, and performance validations

Deliver technical presentations and training sessions for customers and distributor personnel

Maintain detailed documentation of application activity, project status, and customer interactions

Stay current on industry trends, materials, coatings, and advancements in cutting tool technology

Qualifications

3–10+ years of experience in cutting tools, machining, or manufacturing engineering

Strong background in CNC machining (milling and/or drilling; turning experience a plus)

Experience with solid carbide tooling required; exposure to engineered/specialty tooling highly preferred

Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and GD&T

Proven ability to troubleshoot machining issues and recommend process improvements

Familiarity with a wide range of workpiece materials (steel, stainless, aluminum, high‑temp alloys, etc.)

Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively with both end users and distribution partners

Self‑motivated, organized, and comfortable working remotely within a defined territory

Willingness to travel throughout Michigan (approximately 50–70%)

Preferred Qualifications

Prior experience in an applications engineering or field technical role

Experience supporting or working through industrial distribution channels

Knowledge of CAM software and modern machining strategies (high‑efficiency milling, high‑speed machining, etc.)

What Success Looks Like

Becoming a trusted technical advisor to customers and distribution partners

Driving adoption of specialty tooling solutions that improve customer performance

Supporting consistent territory growth through technical differentiation and application expertise

Strengthening relationships across the sales channel while maintaining a strong end‑user focus

#J-18808-Ljbffr