What are the responsibilities and job description for the CNC Machine Tool Applications Engineer (5-Axis Specialist) position at Machine Tool Specialties?
Territory: Oklahoma/Kansas
Machine Tool Specialties, based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a family and locally owned company serving manufacturers with high-performance machine tool solutions and technical expertise. We take pride in building long-term relationships with our customers and providing responsive, hands-on support that keeps their operations running at peak performance.
Our team is made up of skilled professionals who thrive in a fast-paced, problem-solving environment. This is not a “sit in the same chair every day” role—our work changes daily based on customer needs, machine applications, troubleshooting challenges, and on-site support requirements. Every day brings new situations, new machines, and new opportunities to apply your knowledge in meaningful, real-world ways.
We value initiative, technical curiosity, and a strong work ethic. At Machine Tool Specialties, you’ll be part of a tight-knit team where your contributions directly impact both our customers’ success and the growth of the company.
Position Summary
We are seeking a highly skilled CNC Machine Tool Applications Engineer with advanced expertise in 5-axis machining, programming, and process optimization. This role supports both pre-sale and post-sale activities, working closely with customers to implement high-performance machining solutions in demanding production environments.
This position requires hands-on experience with 5-axis programming on both Fanuc and Siemens controls, along with the ability to develop, prove out, and optimize complex machining processes.
The Applications Engineer will work closely with Sales and Service teams to ensure successful machine implementation, customer satisfaction, and long-term account development.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide pre-sale technical support including 5-axis application review, cycle time estimation, and process strategy development
- Perform machine setup, tooling/fixturing, and advanced 5-axis programming and runoffs
- Develop and optimize machining processes for complex parts, including toolpath strategy and work holding solutions
- Interpret blueprints and apply GD&T principles to ensure accurate and efficient manufacturing processes
- Troubleshooting, programming, and machine performance issues both remotely and on-site
- Deliver customer training on machine operation, 5-axis programming, and process optimization
- Support machine installations, prove-outs, and production readiness at customer facilities
- Collaborate with Service teams to resolve technical issues and improve machine performance
- Create and maintain detailed documentation for setups, programs, and process improvements
- Track and manage open technical issues to ensure timely resolution
- Participate in trade shows, demos, and technical presentations highlighting advanced machining capabilities
- Travel to customer sites (local, regional, and occasional international) as required
Required Technical Qualifications
- Associate degree, technical certification, or equivalent hands-on experience in CNC machining or manufacturing
- 3–7 years of CNC applications experience with a strong focus on 5-axis machining
Core Technical Expertise
- Advanced 5-Axis Programming
- Proven ability to program, simulate, and optimize complex multi-axis toolpaths
- Strong understanding of machine kinematics, work offsets, and collision avoidance
- Control Systems
- Hands-on experience with Fanuc and Siemens CNC controls
- Ability to troubleshoot and modify programs directly at the control
- Process Development
- Experience designing machining processes for complex parts
- Strong knowledge of tooling, fixturing, and machining dynamics
- Proficient in blueprint reading and GD&T
- Diagnostics & Machine Performance (Preferred but Highly Valued)
- Experience performing and interpreting ball bar testing
- Familiarity with laser calibration/alignment systems (Renishaw or similar)
- PLC / Ladder Logic (Preferred) Ability to read and make minor modifications to ladder logic for troubleshooting and optimization
Additional Qualifications
- Strong technical communication and customer-facing skills
- Proven ability to troubleshoot and solve complex machining challenges in real-time
- Self-starter with strong organizational and project management skills
- Proficiency with CAM software (Mastercam, NX, HyperMill, or similar preferred)
- Ability to work cross-functionally with sales, service, and engineering teams
Working Conditions
- Combination of office, shop, and customer site environments
- Hands-on work with CNC machinery, tooling, and fixturing
- Exposure to moving mechanical components, industrial noise, and machining environments
- Frequent standing and machine interaction.
What We’re Looking For
We are targeting a high-level applications engineer, not a generalist—someone who can walk into a customer’s facility, quickly diagnose challenges, and implement advanced 5-axis machining solutions that drive performance, efficiency, and reliability.
Compensation
We also offer a highly competitive compensation and benefits package designed to reward experience and performance. Pay is competitive and based on skill level and background, with opportunities for growth as you contribute to the team. Employees receive up to 4 weeks of vacation, a 401(k) plan with company match, and a performance-based bonus program. We also provide a comprehensive and aggressive health care plan to support you and your family, along with a car allowance to support the travel requirements of the role.Bottom of Form