Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

Position Summary:

This role supports the machine shop as a hands-on manufacturing engineer focused on machining processes, measurement/inspection methods, and root cause problem solving. The engineer will work closely with machine shop operators and operations leadership to identify why parts are out of spec, improve measurement and sampling strategies, document floor processes, and drive standard work across the shop. Equipment in scope includes CNC machines, lathes, and 5-axis mills.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as a process leader for machining operations, ensuring processes are running at optimum levels for quality and output.
• Lead root cause investigations on out-of-spec parts and implement corrective actions through improved measurement methods, sampling plans, and process controls.
• Evaluate, select, and improve measurement methods (e.g., runout, GD&T interpretation from prints) to ensure parts are measured accurately and consistently.
• Conduct Measurement System Analysis (MSA) across different measurement methods to determine which are most capable and appropriate for each application.
• Create and implement sampling plans to monitor and control critical characteristics.
• Support and lead 8D investigations and other structured problem-solving efforts.
• Document shop floor processes and implement standard work at stations that currently rely only on a drawing a major improvement opportunity for the shop.
• Run small to mid-size projects independently, communicating updates clearly and partnering with the machine shop and operations teams to align on priorities and needs.
• Act as an interface between engineering, quality, and manufacturing/production to ensure smooth execution and continuous improvement.

Required Qualifications:

• BS in Engineering.
• Hands-on experience with machining processes (CNC, lathes, 5-axis mills).
• Experience with measurement and inspection methods in a machine shop or precision manufacturing environment.
• Strong root cause analysis skills and experience driving corrective actions.
• Ability to run projects independently, communicate progress, and collaborate cross-functionally with shop floor and operations teams.
• Experience creating standard work, process documentation, and sampling plans.

Preferred

• Experience interpreting GD&T on prints and measuring characteristics such as runout, true position, flatness, etc.
• Experience performing MSA (Gage R&R, bias, linearity studies) across varied measurement methods.
• Familiarity with 8D, LEAN, or 6-Sigma tools (DoE, FMEA, QFD, etc.).
• Exposure to SAP is a plus.

This is a Contract position based out of Newport News, VA.

The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $40.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

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)

This is a Contract position based out of Newport News, VA.

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 13, 2026.

This is a fully onsite position in Newport News,VA.

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.