Product Planning Engineer

Strategic Product Role | CNC Machine Tools | Schaumburg, IL Area | $110K-$130K + Bonus

A global industrial manufacturing organization is seeking a Product Planning Engineer to join a newly formed strategic product team supporting advanced manufacturing technologies used across aerospace, automotive, medical device, and precision manufacturing industries.

This is a unique opportunity for someone with CNC machine tool experience who wants to move beyond traditional engineering, applications, or sales roles and play a direct role in shaping product strategy, market direction, and future product development initiatives.

Reporting directly to senior leadership, this individual will help drive product roadmap decisions, evaluate market opportunities, gather customer insights, and support the launch of next-generation manufacturing solutions sold throughout North America and globally.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• Newly created position on a growing strategic product team
• High visibility role working directly with executive leadership
• Opportunity to influence product direction and long-term business strategy
• Blend of engineering, market research, product management, and commercial strategy
• Exposure to global operations and international product planning initiatives
• Work with advanced manufacturing technologies used in critical industries worldwide
• Competitive compensation package with annual bonus opportunity
• Strong long-term growth potential within a global organization

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct market research and competitive analysis to identify product opportunities and industry trends
• Gather and analyze customer feedback to support product development decisions
• Collaborate with Engineering, Applications, Sales, Service, and Marketing teams
• Support development and execution of product roadmaps
• Assist with product launch planning, customer adoption strategies, and sales enablement efforts
• Evaluate pricing strategies, market positioning, and profitability metrics
• Participate in trade shows, customer visits, and industry events
• Support strategic initiatives with international stakeholders and product teams

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience within the CNC machine tool industry
• Background in Applications Engineering, Product Management, Product Planning, Technical Sales Engineering, or similar roles
• Strong understanding of CNC turning and milling technologies
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent technical background
• Ability to communicate effectively with both technical and commercial stakeholders
• Comfortable traveling approximately 15% for customer visits, trade shows, and occasional international meetings

Compensation & Benefits

• $110,000 - $130,000 base salary
• Annual performance bonus
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company benefits
• PTO and paid holidays
• Long-term career growth with a global manufacturing leader

This role is ideal for someone looking to leverage their machine tool expertise in a more strategic, high-impact position that influences both product development and business growth.