Job Title: Manufacturing EngineerJob Description
The Manufacturing Engineer will analyze, develop, and improve manufacturing processes to enhance product quality, reduce waste, and increase productivity. This role leads process improvement initiatives, supports new product development, and ensures efficient, safe, and cost-effective operations through effective use of tools, equipment, and lean methodologies. The position collaborates closely with cross-functional teams, including design engineering, procurement, manufacturing, sales, and quality, to deliver projects on time and within budget while maintaining high standards of safety and compliance.
Responsibilities
Analyze, develop, and enhance manufacturing processes to improve product quality, reduce waste, and optimize productivity.
Implement lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies to streamline production operations.
Drive implementation of capital projects, including return-on-investment (ROI) justification and execution.
Select, design, and modify production tools, fixtures, and equipment to ensure efficient, cost-effective, and safe operations.
Troubleshoot equipment issues and coordinate with maintenance and engineering teams to reduce operational downtime.
Collaborate with manufacturing and sales to develop and implement quality standards, inspection protocols, and corrective actions.
Monitor product quality and process performance, analyzing data to identify and eliminate root causes of defects.
Take responsibility for work progress and resolve problems to ensure timely completion of projects.
Evaluate and present recommendations to management regarding staffing levels, schedules, capacity, performance, and other key performance indicators.
Prepare and maintain detailed layouts of buildings and equipment to support efficient production flow.
Create, update, and maintain procedures for manufacturing processes in alignment with company procedures.
Collaborate with design engineering, procurement, and other teams during new product development to ensure manufacturability.
Support prototyping and testing efforts, adjusting manufacturing processes as necessary based on results.
Estimate time and cost for manufacturing processes and participate in cross-functional project teams to deliver key manufacturing and process development initiatives.
Ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet established performance and quality criteria.
Prepare and revise CAD drawings, including flat patterns and all required dimensions to fabricate parts.
Develop CAD drawings of piece parts, weldments, and complete machines using electronic layouts, prints, drawings, and other technical sources.
Review processes and procedures with a focus on preserving and improving employee safety.
Evaluate and recommend pricing proposals using the best available technical and cost information.
Perform research, design, and development of manufacturing processes, including production flow, assembly methods, and production equipment.
Consult with customers and manage new product development activities, including timelines and deliverables.
Develop quality control plans to ensure part conformity and compliance with specifications.
Support quality engineers with programming of CNC equipment to enable and optimize new product introduction.
Enforce safety standards and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies in all manufacturing operations.
Proactively identify potential safety hazards and lead initiatives to eliminate or mitigate risks.
Prepare and maintain detailed documentation of processes, standards, and equipment modifications.
Train production personnel in new processes and updated procedures to ensure consistent execution.
Write and implement work instructions, processes, and procedures for the production floor and related departments.
Essential Skills
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
At least 3 years of experience in manufacturing engineering.
Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, mechanical systems, and materials.
Proficiency in CAD software such as SolidWorks and AutoCAD.
Experience working with ERP, MRP, and CRM systems.
Demonstrated experience in process improvement and manufacturing engineering.
Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
Strong project management skills with the ability to deliver projects on time and within budget.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills with a collaborative approach.
Strong presentation skills, including the ability to explain technical concepts to diverse audiences.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Experience with lean manufacturing methodologies.
Familiarity with Six Sigma or other structured process improvement methodologies.
Experience with 3D printing technologies and applications in manufacturing.
Ability to develop and interpret detailed CAD models, flat patterns, and fabrication drawings.
Experience supporting CNC programming activities for new product introduction.
Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and with external customers and suppliers.
Strong attention to detail in documentation, layouts, and process definitions.
Work Environment
This role involves a balanced mix of office and shop floor work, requiring the Manufacturing Engineer to move between engineering workstations and production areas. The position uses CAD software such as SolidWorks and AutoCAD, as well as ERP, MRP, and CRM systems to plan and manage manufacturing activities. The shop floor environment includes exposure to production equipment, assembly operations, and typical manufacturing conditions, with a strong emphasis on safety procedures and compliance. Occasional travel may be required to visit suppliers, vendors, and trade shows to support projects, evaluate processes, and stay current with industry developments. Work is typically performed during standard business hours, with additional time as needed to support critical projects and production needs.
Job Type & Location
This is a Permanent position based out of Owatonna, MN.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $75000.00 - $95000.00/yr.
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)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Owatonna,MN.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Apr 24, 2026.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:
Hiring diverse talent
Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
Ensuring growth opportunities for our people
Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we've helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC-with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.
Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.
