Job Title: Mechanical Test Engineer
Job Description
This hands-on Mechanical Test Engineer role supports multiple military-focused programs, with a primary emphasis on developing and testing a large electromechanical linear actuator for primary flight control applications. You will take ownership of actuator systems and test fixtures from concept through design, analysis, build, testing, and validation, working with components that operate at very high loads and forces. The position is highly collaborative, offering daily guidance and design reviews from a senior engineer, and requires a strong mix of analytical capability, practical build and test experience, and clear technical communication.
Responsibilities
Support concept design activities for large electromechanical linear actuators and associated test fixtures.
Contribute to critical design review (CDR) and release-to-service activities for actuator systems and test equipment.
Design and build fixtures and test stands for high-load linear actuator testing, including systems capable of up to 50,000 lbs of force, large stroke lengths, and high structural loads.
Perform hydraulic testing of electromechanical actuators and related components.
Convert 3D CAD models into detailed 2D piece-part drawings suitable for manufacturing and inspection.
Apply GD&T to drawings to ensure manufacturability, proper fit, and test repeatability.
Perform FEA and structural analysis to validate designs under high load and torque conditions.
Assemble, debug, and troubleshoot systems, test stands, and fixtures that you design, working in a hands-on lab environment.
Execute Verification and Validation (V&V) processes, including planning, test execution, and documentation.
Generate clear test reports, results documentation, and release artifacts to support program milestones and certification needs.
Collaborate closely with mechanical and electrical engineers and other cross-functional team members to integrate designs and resolve technical issues.
Support multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment, balancing priorities and deadlines.
Use test equipment such as dynamometers and other specialized tools to characterize actuator performance.
Participate in design reviews, present technical findings, and communicate status and risks to the broader engineering team.
Essential Skills
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
5+ years of mechanical engineering experience.
Strong experience with hydraulics, including design and testing of hydraulic systems.
Proven experience in fixture and test stand design for high-load mechanical testing.
Expertise in applying GD&T to ensure manufacturability, fit, and repeatable testing (critical skill).
Experience with structural analysis and material strength, including components subjected to high loads and torque.
Proficiency with CAD tools such as Creo, Inventor (3D and 2D), and NX for designing and detailing mechanical components and assemblies.
Ability to translate designs into build-ready assemblies and clear manufacturing documentation.
Hands-on build, test, and troubleshooting mindset, comfortable working directly with hardware.
Strong mechanical testing experience, including setup, execution, and data interpretation.
Proficiency in technical writing for test plans, procedures, and reports.
Ability to manage concurrent projects and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
Tenacious problem-solving approach when faced with aggressive or unconventional requirements.
Curiosity and motivation to continuously learn and improve technical skills.
Comfort working onsite in a lab and build environment on a daily basis.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Experience with DO-160 or similar aerospace testing standards.
Familiarity with product lifecycle and data management tools such as Windchill and/or SAP.
Experience supporting military or aerospace programs and understanding of their rigor and documentation needs.
Exposure to motor-driven linear systems and actuator technologies.
Experience with additional CAD platforms such as Siemens NX, SolidWorks, Inventor, and AutoCAD (2D and 3D).
Background in aerospace applications or environments with high reliability and safety requirements.
Experience with dynamometers and other specialized test equipment.
Strong presentation skills for sharing analysis results, test findings, and design decisions with stakeholders.
Work Environment
This role is 100% onsite in a lab and build environment, working five days a week with a flexible start time. You will spend significant time in test labs and assembly areas, working directly with high-load actuator systems, hydraulic equipment, and custom test stands. The environment is fast-paced and highly collaborative, with frequent interaction with mechanical and electrical engineers and regular design reviews with senior engineering staff. You will use a range of engineering tools and technologies, including CAD platforms such as Creo, Inventor, NX, and AutoCAD, as well as structural analysis tools, test equipment like dynamometers, and various measurement and data acquisition systems. The setting emphasizes safety, hands-on work with hardware, and close coordination between design, build, and test activities.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Niles, IL.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $45.00 - $50.00/hr.
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 Niles,IL.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on May 4, 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.
