Manufacturing Engineer

Job Title: Manufacturing Engineer Job Description The Manufacturing Engineer independently programs, sets up, operates, and troubleshoots CNC equipment to produce low-volume, bespoke prototype and production hardware. This role focuses on translating complex engineering designs into robust, repeatable manufacturing processes, including tooling selection, workholding strategies, machining and finishing operations, and comprehensive documentation. The engineer works closely with cross-functional teams to ensure that hardware meets stringent quality, engineering, and defense-related requirements while driving continuous improvement and mentoring others over time. Responsibilities

- Program, set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC equipment to produce low-volume, bespoke prototype and production hardware.
- Develop manufacturing programs and documentation covering tooling selection, workholding, machining and finishing processes, work instructions, and control plans.
- Use Mastercam and SolidWorks to translate engineering designs and models into efficient, reliable manufacturing processes.
- Apply hands-on experience with HAAS CNC machines and related equipment to execute machining operations and resolve production issues.
- Design custom tooling and fixtures to support prototype manufacturing, qualification cycles, and repeatable production.
- Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, customer specifications, and applicable Department of Defense manufacturing requirements to ensure compliance.
- Operate precision inspection instruments to validate finished hardware against quality, dimensional, and engineering requirements.
- Perform root-cause analysis to troubleshoot manufacturing issues and improve process reliability, throughput, and quality.
- Take ownership of project execution, including throughput, schedules, and proactive communication of quality or delivery risks.
- Collaborate closely with design, quality, and program teams in development reviews and technical problem solving.
- Continuously learn and apply new manufacturing methods, demonstrating initiative in process optimization and technology adoption.
- Develop the ability to lead technical work and mentor more junior engineers and team members over time.
- Support the full product lifecycle from concept through completion, ensuring manufacturability and adherence to project goals.

Essential Skills

- Bachelors degree in an engineering-related discipline.
- *MUST HAVE* 5+ years of engineering experience working hands-on with CNC machines.
- Strong manufacturing engineering background with direct experience in CNC machining.
- Proven ability to program, set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC equipment for prototype and production work.
- Tooling experience, including selection and application for various machining and finishing processes.
- Proficiency with Mastercam for CNC programming.
- Proficiency with SolidWorks for interpreting and working with 3D models and engineering designs.
- Hands-on experience with HAAS CNC machines and related manufacturing equipment.
- Ability to design custom tooling and fixtures to support prototype manufacturing and qualification cycles.
- Ability to develop detailed manufacturing documentation, including work instructions and control plans.
- Strong skills in interpreting engineering drawings, GD&T, and customer specifications.
- Experience with precision inspection instruments and dimensional validation of hardware.
- Capability to perform root-cause analysis and implement corrective actions to improve manufacturing processes.
- Strong ownership mindset toward project execution, schedules, and risk communication.
- Effective collaboration skills with design, quality, and program teams.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Cranbury, NJ.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $43.27 - $57.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job
classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be
subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:

Medical, dental & vision
Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
Short and long-term disability
Health Spending Account (HSA)
Transportation benefits
Employee Assistance Program
Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Cranbury, NJ.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Nov 26, 2026.
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Cranbury,NJ. About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without
regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability,
sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected
by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or
adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability,
please email [email protected] for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the
city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants
with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a
condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law
shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process,
including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications
and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you
acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.