Overview
Manufacturing Engineer (CNC & Tooling)- IL USA CITIZENS ONLY, 5+ years or BS Engineering required Jobs in Rockford, IL at Ekstrom Carlson
MANUFACTURING ENGINEER (CNC & TOOLING)
We are seeking a skilled and autonomous Manufacturing Engineer (CNC & Tooling) to assist in cutting tool design, critical spindle repair projects, and directly program and operate our CNC tool grinders. This hybrid role bridges engineering application with hands-on, floor-level machining.
Key Responsibilities
1. Cutting Tool Design & Engineering
- Design custom cutting tools and geometry modifications using tool-grinding software and CAD platforms.
- Develop grinding programs and simulation models for specialized end mills, drills, step tools, and custom profiles.
- Select appropriate substrates, coatings, and edge preparations tailored to specific manufacturing applications.
2. Spindle Repair & Mechanical Engineering
- Diagnose, troubleshoot, and reverse-engineer malfunctioning or worn spindles working with our repair technicians.
- Assist in repair workflows, bearing replacements, and modifications to maximize spindle longevity.
- Establish tolerances and runout specifications for rebuilt spindle assemblies using a strong mechanical approach.
3. CNC Tool Grinder Operation & Programming
- Assist in the programming and operation of multi-axis ANCA and TruTech CNC tool grinders to manufacture and recondition cutting tools. You will not typically operate the grinders, but must learn the capability to program, setup, assist, and instruct.
- Conduct in-process inspections using precision equipment (micrometers, indicators, comparators) to maintain micron-level tolerances.
4. Continuous Improvement & Optimization
- Optimize grinding wheel speeds, feeds, and coolant delivery to maximize tool surface finish and minimize cycle times.
- Assist in preventative maintenance on CNC grinders, filtration systems, and chiller setups.
- Document engineering changes, tool blueprints, and standardized setup sheets for future production runs.
Job Requirements & QualificationsExperience & Education
- Education: Technical trade school, equivalent machine shop experience, or a degree in Manufacturing/Mechanical Engineering. Practical shop expertise is highly valued.
- Shop Experience: Solid, hands-on experience working directly with precision cutting tools is a plus.
- Machining and Programming Background: Prior experience programming and operating CNC machines, along with a deep understanding of how cutting tools perform in real-world milling applications, is highly beneficial.
- Mechanical Background: Prior knowledge of spindle repair or a strong mechanical background in rebuilding precision machinery is highly beneficial.
Technical Skills
- Machining: Prefer proficiency or knowledge in G-code programming, machine setups, and tight-tolerance grinding operations, specifically on ANCA or TruTech platforms, is beneficial. If not experienced, the candidate must have the capability to quickly learn.
- Software: Will gain experience with tool-grinding simulation packages (e.g., ANCA ToolRoom) or similar CNC programming software.
- Metrology: Expert capability using precision measurement tools, indicators, and optical tool presletters.
Soft Skills
- Strong technical problem-solving skills for diagnosing spindle vibration or tool failure modes.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision on highly technical, custom projects.
- Excellent documentation habits to keep engineering prints and machine programs organized.
Company:
*Growing company focused on aggressively expanding in the future years.
*Health benefits and 401K included.
*Looking for people who are pro-active and customer focused, capable of producing only the highest quality tools and tool regrinds.
*Drug testing will be required.
Please send your resume.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Health insurance
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $30.00 – $45.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Health insurance
Application Question(s):
- Please advise current and desired hourly wage?
- Are you a USA citizen? We will not hire or sponsor someone who is not a citizen.
- Please advise if you can program CNC machines – lathes, mills, or grinders. What scale are you 1-10 with 10 being the best?
Education:
- Bachelor’s (Required)
Work Location: In person
Title: Manufacturing Engineer (CNC & Tooling)- IL USA CITIZENS ONLY, 5+ years or BS Engineering required
Company: Ekstrom Carlson
Location: Rockford, IL
Category:
