Senior Applications Engineer – Electron Beam / Advanced Manufacturing Systems

Location: Lombard, ILTravel: approx. 25–30%About Pro-beampro-beam is a global leader in electron beam technology, delivering advanced welding and additive manufacturing solutions for the most demanding industrial and research applications for over 50 years. Its systems are trusted in industries where precision and reliability matter most, including aerospace, defense, automotive, and energy.The U.S. subsidiary in Lombard, IL serves as the operational hub for commissioning, service, training, and customer support across North America. The U.S. team operates within a global matrix organization, working closely with engineering, project management, and development teams headquartered in Germany.About The Rolepro-beam USA is seeking a Senior Applications Engineer with direct experience in electron beam (EB) systems or comparable complex capital equipment to support complex technical challenges, system-level troubleshooting, and commissioning activities across North America.This is not a traditional installation-focused field service role, but a system-level engineering position focused on advanced troubleshooting and technical ownership.This role goes beyond standard installation-focused field service responsibilities and is primarily centered around:supporting complex technical challenges at the system levelcontributing to commissioning activities, particularly in non-routine scenariosserving as a key technical escalation point for EB-related topics in the U.S.In addition, this position plays an important role in transferring technical knowledge, mentoring team members, and contributing to the continued development of the U.S. organization.Candidates with strong experience in adjacent technologies (e.g., vacuum systems, high-voltage equipment, or advanced industrial machinery) are encouraged to apply if interested in transitioning into electron beam systems.Key ResponsibilitiesCommissioning & Technical LeadershipProvide technical guidance and support for machine commissioning and start-up activities, both at the Lombard facility and at customer sites across North America, with a focus on complex or non-standard scenariosTake ownership of technical outcomes in complex or first-of-kind EB system scenarios, particularly where deeper system-level analysis and problem solving are requiredPerform advanced system-level troubleshooting across EB welding and additive manufacturing equipment, resolving issues that go beyond standard troubleshooting scenariosServe as the primary internal escalation point for complex technical challenges, supporting the broader team in resolving non-routine system issuesTraining & Knowledge TransferDesign and deliver training programs for pro-beam customers, ranging from machine operators to advanced engineering usersMentor and develop Field Service Engineers and Field Service Technicians who are new to EB technology, building their technical competency over timeCreate and maintain technical training materials, troubleshooting guides, and standard operating procedures to build institutional knowledge within the U.S. teamContribute to commissioning runbooks and service documentation to ensure knowledge is captured and transferableAutomation, Controls & SystemsPerform and lead targeted PLC diagnostics and adjustments (Siemens / TIA Portal preferred; other platforms considered)Support HMI configuration and visualization adjustments as required during commissioning and system supportDiagnose and resolve issues across electrical, high-voltage, vacuum, and motion control subsystemsCustomer & Cross-Functional InterfaceAct as the senior technical point of contact for key customer accounts during commissioning and ongoing system supportCoordinate closely with pro-beam's engineering and project management teams in Germany on technical issues, design feedback, and system improvementsSupport proposal and quoting phases with technical input on service scope, complexity, and resource requirementsChampion a strong safety culture in all field activities, with particular attention to high-voltage, radiation (X-ray), and vacuum safety protocolsQualificationsRequired:5–10+ years of hands-on experience with electron beam systems or comparable complex capital equipment (e.g., vacuum systems, high-voltage equipment, or advanced industrial machinery)Strong understanding of system architecture, including high-voltage power supplies, vacuum systems, and motion/control integrationProven ability to troubleshoot complex system-level issuesExperience in commissioning, service, or applications engineering rolesPLC experience (diagnostics and adjustments; programming not required)Strong communication skills and ability to train othersWillingness to travel approximately 25–30%PreferredDirect experience with electron beam systemsExperience with additive manufacturing systemsExperience mentoring or leading technical teamsFamiliarity with Siemens (TIA Portal, drives, etc.)Experience working in a multinational or German engineering environmentWhat Success Looks LikeWithin the first 6 months, you will:Independently diagnose and resolve complex EB-related customer issues, with limited reliance on support from GermanyServe as a trusted technical escalation point within the U.S. organization for advanced system-level challengesContribute to strengthening internal EB expertise within the team through hands-on support and knowledge transferCompensation & BenefitsHourly rate: $50–$55/hour + overtimePTO: 15 days per year401(k) with company matchHealth insurance (Blue Cross Blue Shield, including dental)Visa sponsorship may be considered on a case-by-case basisWhy Join pro-beamWork with technology at the frontier of precision manufacturing: EB systems used in aerospace, defense, and advanced researchTake on a senior, high-impact role with real ownership of complex technical outcomes and system performanceCollaborate with world-class EB engineers at pro-beam's German headquartersJoin a team that values deep technical expertise, operational excellence, and quality from the startContribute directly to building pro-beam USA’s long-term technical capability and market position in North America