Applications Engineer 4

Silfex, Inc. - A Division of Lam Research Corporation•Springfield, OH

About The Position

From smartphones to solar panels, innovative technology is needed to create the devices we use every day. Silfex’s silicon components help make that technology a reality. Silfex Inc., A Lam Research Company is the leading provider of precision silicon components used to make and operate semiconductor tools, which enable the trillion-dollar global electronics industry. Our company’s products are integral to the semiconductor equipment and optical markets. The outstanding team at Silfex makes that possible – through our people, we are advancing the world. The impact we have on the world is made possible by focusing on our people. So we recognize and celebrate our teams’ achievements. We strive to create an inclusive and diverse culture where everyone’s contribution and voice has value. We evaluate and evolve our offerings, so our people receive the support and empowerment to do meaningful things for their lives, careers, and communities. Our Perks and Benefits At Silfex, our people make amazing things possible. That’s why we invest in you throughout the phases of your life with a comprehensive set of outstanding benefits that start on your first day of employment. Discover more at Lam Benefits Job Descriptions: Essential Function: The position is responsible for defining, driving, and executing the CNC programming transformation roadmap—from manually written G- and M‑code programs to standardized, model‑based CAD/CAM programming using Siemens NX. This role serves as the technical owner of the CNC programming strategy, ensuring consistent, scalable, and best‑in‑class utilization of NX across machines, part families, and teams. The Applications Engineer collaborates with Manufacturing Engineering, Product Engineering, Operations, IT, and leadership to modernize programming practices, improve productivity, and enable advanced machining capabilities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related discipline with 8+ years of experience; Master’s degree with 6+ years; or, in lieu of a degree, 12+ years of relevant experience, including at least 5 years in a manufacturing environment—preferably in machining or precision CNC.
Master’s degree in a related discipline is acceptable.
Extensive CNC programming and machining experience.
Strong proficiency in Siemens NX CAD/CAM.
Demonstrated transition from manual G/M‑code to CAM‑driven workflows.
Deep knowledge of machining fundamentals, tooling, fixturing, and machine behavior.
Proven ability to lead technical change and influence cross‑functional teams.
Strong understanding of shop operations, manufacturing processes, and GD&T.
Ability to manage multiple projects with competing priorities.
Strong organizational, documentation, and communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to build partnerships and work effectively in cross‑functional teams.
Display a positive attitude and strong work ethic that reflects the Mission and Core Values of Silfex.
Create and maintain a culture where workplace safety is part of everything we do.
Provide the safest possible workplace to our employees by modeling and following all company safety policies, reporting any incidents or unsafe conditions immediately to Silfex management.
Wear all PPE as required by work area or job function.
Communication – Begin with the end in mind – Communicate boldly as well as effectively with empathy and respect to inspire teamwork and collaboration vertically and horizontally within Silfex.
Assist in applying lean manufacturing concepts and 5S.
Demonstrate ownership of continuous improvement ideas and activities.
Maintain organization and cleanliness, housekeeping and 5S within work area.
Maintain these areas at the highest degree possible while responsibly escalating any maintenance issues.

Responsibilities

CNC Programming Roadmap & Strategy Develop and maintain a multiyear CNC programming transformation roadmap.
Lead the transition from manual G/M‑code programming to Siemens NX–based CAD/CAM workflows.
Assess current tools, programming maturity, skill levels, and workflow gaps.
Define target‑state capabilities, including model‑based programming, multi‑axis machining, and reusable templates/libraries.
Prioritize initiatives based on safety, quality, cost, and delivery.
NX CAD/CAM Standardization & Deployment Establish Siemens NX as the standard programming platform for the site or multi‑site network.
Develop machining templates, tool libraries, cut‑parameter databases, and post‑processor governance standards.
Implement controlled file structures, naming conventions, and revision‑control practices.
Ensure consistent programming outputs across machines, part families, and programming teams.
Execution & Change Leadership Execute roadmap initiatives through structured project plans, milestones, and KPIs.
Drive adoption of NX workflows across programming, engineering, and operations.
Serve as the technical authority for CNC programming strategy.
Balance near‑term production support with long-term digital manufacturing capability development.
Champion model‑based workflows, simulation, and digital verification.
Advanced Machining Enablement Develop machining strategies utilizing NX for 3‑, 4‑, and 5‑axis machining.
Deploy feature‑based machining, simulation, and digital verification.
Lead CNC prove‑outs and first‑article validations.
Ensure programs are robust, efficient, and production ready.
Capture and standardize machining strategy knowledge for reuse.
Collaboration & Stakeholder Alignment Partner with Manufacturing Engineering, Product Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Tooling.
Work with IT on software deployment, licensing, infrastructure, and data management.
Provide leadership with visibility into programming maturity and roadmap progress.
Interface with machine tool OEMs and Siemens NX resources as needed.
Training, Coaching & Knowledge Development Define NX training curricula aligned with roadmap milestones.
Mentor programmers transitioning from manual to NX‑driven workflows.
Develop documentation, programming standards, and best-practice materials.
Reduce reliance on tribal knowledge through standardized processes.
Performance Measurement & Continuous Improvement Define KPIs for programming efficiency, program reuse, machining quality, and NX adoption.
Refine programming standards based on performance data.
Stay current on Siemens NX updates and digital manufacturing advancements.
Implement improvements that increase machine utilization, reduce cycle time, and enhance consistency.