Manufacturing Engineer

Actalent is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer that develops, optimizes, and sustains manufacturing processes that convert design‑intent drawings into finished products that consistently meet customer requirements. The role focuses on applying Lean manufacturing methodologies to improve quality, delivery, safety, and productivity across a high mix/low volume environment. The Manufacturing Engineer also designs and implements tooling, equipment, fixtures, racks, and data systems, while working closely with cross‑functional teams to support product qualification, launch activities, and continuous improvement initiatives.

This is a short, 4‑month long contract to support the start‑up of a new plant in Marietta, OH. There is potential to find additional work/opportunities with the company following this contract.

• Develop new manufacturing processes and continuously improve existing processes to enhance product quality, on‑time delivery, and overall customer satisfaction.
• Apply Lean manufacturing principles such as value stream mapping, standardized work, continuous flow, and material flow to optimize fabrication and assembly operations.
• Specify and design tooling, equipment, fixtures, racks, and data streams that improve manufacturing efficiency, safety, and performance metrics.
• Support the development and validation of manufacturing processes for high mix/low volume product families, including painted and unpainted metal components, wire harnesses, foaming, brazing, leak checking, and performance validation methods.
• Lead manufacturing process development activities, including defining process parameters, work instructions, and control plans.
• Plan and execute equipment validation activities, including Installation Qualification (IQ), Operational Qualification (OQ), and Performance Qualification (PQ).
• Collaborate with Design Engineering, Production, Quality, Materials, Maintenance, and Sourcing teams to support product qualification, new product introduction, and launch activities.
• Lead root cause analysis efforts for manufacturing and launch‑related issues, using structured problem‑solving methods to identify causes and implement effective corrective and preventive actions.
• Drive Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives to increase safety, quality, capacity, and productivity.
• Scope project requirements, develop project plans, and justify capital expenditures to support process improvements and equipment investments.
• Manage and execute projects from concept through implementation, ensuring alignment with safety, quality, capacity, and productivity goals.
• Use 2D and 3D CAD tools (such as AutoCAD and Solid Works) to create and update layouts, fixtures, tooling designs, and process documentation.
• Develop and implement automation solutions, including robotics and mechatronics, to automate processes and improve consistency and throughput.
• Program and integrate PLCs (such as Siemens and Direct Soft) and HMIs (such as Panel View, C‑more, and Pro Designer) into manufacturing systems.
• Utilize computer systems and data processing tools to monitor process performance, analyze trends, and support data‑driven decision‑making.
• Communicate effectively in both oral and written form with cross‑functional stakeholders to document requirements, present findings, and report project status.

• Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in Mechanical Engineering (BSME), Industrial Engineering (BSIE), or Electrical Engineering (BSEE).
• 2–5 years of experience in Manufacturing Engineering.
• Hands‑on experience with Lean manufacturing, including value stream mapping, standardized work, continuous flow, and material flow.
• Knowledge of Lean fabrication and assembly techniques in high mix/low volume product environments, particularly for painted and unpainted metal components, wire harnesses, foaming, brazing, leak checking, and performance validation methods.
• Proficiency in 2D and 3D drafting using AutoCAD and Solid Works.
• Equipment validation experience, including Installation Qualification (IQ), Operational Qualification (OQ), and Performance Qualification (PQ).
• Expertise in automation, robotics, and…