Mechanical Engineer

Job Title: Mechanical / Manufacturing Engineer Job Description This Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineer role supports manufacturing, automation, and facility engineering initiatives within a growing operational environment. The position combines mechanical design, manufacturing engineering, automation support, and continuous improvement activities, with a strong focus on developing production equipment and improving manufacturing processes. You will collaborate closely with operations, production, controls engineering, technicians, and leadership to enhance efficiency, quality, and safety across manufacturing and distribution center projects. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys balancing detailed mechanical design work with hands-on support on the production floor and working directly with production teams to solve operational challenges. Responsibilities * Design mechanical systems, fixtures, tooling, and automation solutions that support manufacturing operations and production needs. * Develop 3D models and detailed engineering drawings using SolidWorks for mechanical assemblies and components. * Assist with machine design projects ranging from semi-automated to fully automated systems, ensuring reliability and manufacturability. * Support the development of custom material handling and production solutions to improve throughput and ergonomics. * Design production aids, workstations, bins, racks, fixtures, and related equipment to optimize workflow and operator efficiency. * Partner with production teams to identify and implement process improvements that enhance efficiency, quality, and safety. * Support manufacturing operations through root cause analysis of production issues and recommend corrective actions and workflow enhancements. * Participate in production startup and facility expansion projects, contributing engineering input from concept through implementation. * Support the implementation of new manufacturing processes and equipment, including installation, testing, and validation activities. * Collect and analyze production data to understand performance trends and inform improvement initiatives. * Conduct time studies and workflow assessments to identify bottlenecks and opportunities for productivity improvements. * Identify and drive opportunities for productivity improvements as part of operational excellence and process optimization initiatives. * Assist with the standardization of manufacturing methods and best practices to ensure consistency across operations. * Work closely with controls engineers, technicians, manufacturing personnel, and leadership teams to coordinate engineering projects. * Support facility engineering and distribution center projects, providing mechanical and manufacturing engineering expertise. * Coordinate projects from initial concept through detailed design, build, testing, and implementation on the production floor. * Provide ongoing technical support for production and operational initiatives, troubleshooting equipment and process issues as needed. Essential Skills * Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related engineering discipline. * At least 2 years of engineering experience within a manufacturing environment. * Proven experience using SolidWorks for mechanical design, including 3D modeling and detailed drawing creation. * Experience creating engineering drawings and mechanical assemblies suitable for fabrication and production. * Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to understand and apply machine design principles. * Demonstrated problem-solving abilities, particularly in a manufacturing or production setting. * Ability to work effectively in both office and production environments, transitioning comfortably between design work and hands-on support. * Experience supporting manufacturing operations and collaborating with production personnel. * Experience designing manufacturing equipment, tooling, fixtures, or automation systems. Additional Skills & Qualifications * Exposure to process improvement or continuous improvement initiatives within manufacturing operations. * Familiarity with production data collection and analysis to support decision-making and improvement projects. * Experience working with controls engineers, technicians, and production personnel on integrated equipment and automation projects. * Experience with AutoCAD for drafting and layout work. * Interest in emerging technologies and AI-enabled engineering tools and their application in manufacturing and engineering. * Understanding of machine design principles, including structural integrity, motion, and safety considerations. Work Environment The role is based at a manufacturing and distribution site that produces HVAC equipment and machinery, including on-site manufacturing of custom equipment and machine designs. You will split your time between office-based engineering work and hands-on activities on the production floor, collaborating with operations, controls engineering, technicians, and production teams. The environment is dynamic and project-driven, with exposure to automated and semi-automated machinery, material handling systems, and facility expansion initiatives, offering opportunities to contribute to both manufacturing operations and distribution center projects. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Fontana, CA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $46.00 - $59.00/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 Fontana,CA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Jul 30, 2026. 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 View email address on click.appcast.io 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.