Centriole-enriched microtubule-binding protein involved in centriole biogenesis. Essential for the generation of the distal portion of new-born centrioles in a CENPJ- and CEP120-mediated elongation dependent manner during the cell cycle S/G2 phase after formation of the initiating cartwheel structure. Required for the recruitment of centriolar proteins, such as POC1B, POC5 and CEP135, into the distal portion of centrioles. Also required for centriole-to-centrosome conversion during mitotic progression, but is dispensable for cartwheel removal or centriole disengagement. Binds to and stabilizes centriolar microtubule. Interacts (via ALMS motif) with microtubules; this interaction is direct. Associates with both of the converted centrioles during G1 but becomes more enriched at the newly formed daughter (or unconverted) centrioles during S, G2, and early M phases. In early S phase, localized at the procentriolar microtubule wall and enriched at the proximal ends of the centrioles in CENPJ- and CEP135-dependent manner. Colocalizes with SASS6 and CEP250 proteins. Colocalizes with CEP135 and CEP192 at the centrosomes. Associates with interphase microtubules and mitotic spindles. Colocalizes with centriolar acetylated tubulin. The N-terminal and the ALMS motif-containing C-terminal regions are essential for CEP295-mediated centriole elongation.