Manufacturing Engineer

Job Title

Manufacturing Engineer

The Manufacturing Engineer will play a key role in driving continuous improvement across production operations, including board-level test, module assembly and test, and full radio integration into a variety of enclosures. Leveraging strong mechanical and industrial engineering experience, the Engineer will optimize manufacturing processes, enhance product quality, and support efficient, reliable builds of advanced radio systems.

• Refine and document manufacturing processes for board-level, module-level, and radio-level assembly and test operations.
• Create clear, detailed work instructions and travelers to guide production teams in compliance with quality standards and customer requirements.
• Provide hands‑on troubleshooting and technical support for challenging assembly and test issues, collaborating with technicians and design engineering as needed.
• Evaluate and improve assembly line layout, test benches, and fixturing to maximize efficiency, repeatability, and operator ergonomics.
• Identify and implement process improvements to reduce cycle time, improve yield, and support low-volume, high‑mix production of radios.
• Support the introduction of new products into manufacturing by developing assembly sequences, tooling, and test methods.
• Collaborate with design engineering to ensure manufacturability of new designs (DFM/DFT).
• Lead root‑cause investigations for build and test failures; implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Participate in material review boards and support supplier quality efforts.

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, manufacturing engineering, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, preferably in defense electronics or other high‑reliability electronic assemblies.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical assembly processes, test operations, and manufacturing process control.
• Familiarity with board-level and system-level electronic test processes.
• Experience developing work instructions, travelers, and process documentation in a regulated environment.
• Proficiency with CAD tools (Solid Works or similar) and manufacturing process analysis techniques.
• Strong troubleshooting and root‑cause analysis skills in both mechanical and electrical assembly contexts.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work cross‑functionally with technicians, engineers, and quality teams.

• Experience in low-volume, high‑mix production environments.
• Familiarity with Deltek Costpoint or similar ERP/MRP systems.
• Knowledge of IPC standards (e.g., J‑STD‑001, IPC‑A‑610, IPC‑7711/7721).
• Prior defense or aerospace manufacturing experience.

The position is based in a research and development and manufacturing environment in Germantown, focusing on defense electronics production. The role involves frequent handling of precision RF/microwave components and connectors, occasional lifting of up to 25 lbs., and use of mechanical and hand tools. Workplace type:
This is a fully onsite position in Germantown, MD.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Germantown, MD.

The pay range for this position is $48.00 - $65.00/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)

Final date to receive applications:
This position is anticipated to close on Mar 9, 2026.

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 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

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 due to a disability, please email actalentaccom for other accommodation options.