Applications Engineer

At Okuma America Corporation, we are committed to helping manufacturers achieve exceptional productivity through innovative CNC technologies, application expertise, and long-term customer partnerships. As an Applications Engineer, you will serve as a technical leader supporting sales initiatives, distributor development, customer success, and advanced manufacturing projects.

This role is focused on 4-axis and 5-axis milling technologies, Laser EX integrations, and other high-performance machining solutions. The Senior Applications Engineer partners closely with customers, distributors, and internal teams to develop machining processes, conduct demonstrations, provide advanced technical support, and ensure successful implementation of Okuma solutions across a variety of industries.

How You'll Make an Impact

• Provide application engineering support for Okuma's milling, 5-axis, and laser-integrated machining solutions.
• Partner with sales teams, distributors, and customers to develop and implement innovative manufacturing processes.
• Lead demonstrations, training programs, and technical evaluations that drive customer success and business growth.
• Support turnkey projects, machine validations, and process improvement initiatives from concept through production.
• Serve as a trusted technical advisor, delivering expertise, documentation, and recommendations that strengthen customer relationships and maximize machine performance.

Qualifications & Experience

Required Education & Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Trade school certification, apprenticeship, or equivalent machining/manufacturing experience.
• Significant manufacturing and machining experience with CNC machine tools.
• Experience supporting customers, distributors, or production teams in a technical environment.
• Ability to travel extensively to support customer visits, distributor activities, machine demonstrations, training programs, trade shows, and project-related initiatives.

Technical Expertise

• Advanced knowledge of CNC machine tools and controls, preferably Okuma controls.
• Experience with 4-axis and 5-axis machining technologies.
• Knowledge of machining processes, tooling, fixturing, workholding, and manufacturing best practices.
• Knowledge of current cutting tool technologies and machining strategies.
• Familiarity with manual and hydraulic workholding systems.
• Experience working with CAD/CAM and manufacturing software platforms.
• Understanding of Statistical Process Control (SPC).
• Proficiency with mathematics, technical analysis, written communication, and report preparation.
• Ability to prepare technical reports, presentations, and customer-facing documentation.
• Familiarity with software and tools such as VeriCut, CAD/CAM systems, AOT, CAS, 3DVM, and modeling software.

Preferred Qualifications & Skills

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, or a related field.
• Machine tool industry experience.
• Experience with laser-integrated machining technologies and/or robotic automation systems.
• Expertise supporting complex customer applications, turnkey projects, and advanced manufacturing processes.
• Experience serving industries such as aerospace, energy, medical, construction, or fluid power.
• Strong presentation, training, project management, and problem-solving skills.

The Okuma Difference

At Okuma, innovation is more than a goal. It is part of who we are. As one of the world's leading manufacturers of CNC machine tools, we invest in advanced technology, employee development, and strong customer relationships. Our team members enjoy a collaborative environment where knowledge sharing, continuous learning, and professional growth are encouraged. When you join Okuma, you become part of an organization that values excellence, teamwork, integrity, and customer success. You'll have opportunities to influence corporate growth strategies, strengthen our market presence, and help shape the future of digital engagement and business development within manufacturing.

Supporting Your Success

At Okuma, we invest in our employees' well-being and professional growth. Our comprehensive benefits package includes competitive bonus opportunities, pension and 401(k) plans, medical, dental, and vision coverage, company-paid disability insurance, tuition reimbursement, wellness programs, generous paid time off, paid holidays, parental leave, and flexible scheduling options.

Equal Opportunity & Accommodations

Okuma America Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. Qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to any status protected by applicable law.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to participate in the application process and perform the essential functions of the position.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or qualifications required. Responsibilities may change based on business needs.