Manufacturing Engineer

Job Title: Manufacturing Engineer
Job Description
The Manufacturing Engineer will develop and optimize CNC machining processes for lathes and mills, design fixtures, and support continuous improvement in a precision manufacturing environment. This role focuses on CNC programming at the machine, fixture design using modern CAD tools, and close collaboration with manufacturing engineering to improve process efficiency, quality, and equipment performance.
Responsibilities

• Create, modify, and optimize CNC programs for lathes and mills, including Mazak and Okuma equipment.
• Perform CNC programming directly at the machine, with the opportunity to introduce and use a CAD/CAM software of choice in the future.
• Design and develop fixtures using NX, Creo, and AutoCAD to support efficient and accurate machining operations.
• Collaborate closely with manufacturing engineering to improve process efficiency, throughput, and overall performance.
• Analyze machining processes and implement improvements to reduce cycle time, scrap, and rework.
• Conduct cost analysis to support process changes and evaluate the financial impact of engineering decisions.
• Perform root cause analysis and apply strong problem-solving skills when machines go down or processes do not meet expectations.
• Ensure all work complies with established Quality Management Systems and procedures.
• Apply 3D design skills in any CAD software to support fixture design and process development.
• Support and participate in continuous improvement initiatives within the manufacturing area.

Essential Skills

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a manufacturing or machining engineering role.
• Hands-on CNC programming knowledge for lathes and mills.
• Experience working with Mazak and/or Okuma CNC machines.
• Proficiency in fixture design using NX, Creo, and AutoCAD.
• Ability to perform basic to intermediate CNC programming directly at the machine.
• Strong problem-solving skills, especially in diagnosing and resolving machine downtime issues.
• Experience performing root cause analysis on process and equipment issues.
• Ability to conduct cost analysis related to process changes and improvements.
• 3D design experience using CAD software.
• Familiarity with and adherence to Quality Management Systems and procedures.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in engineering or a related field is a plus.
• Experience with any CAD/CAM software for programming and process development.
• Exposure to heat treatment processes is a plus.
• Experience with welding processes is a plus.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills to work effectively with manufacturing engineering and production teams.

Work Environment
This role operates in a hands-on manufacturing environment that includes CNC lathes and mills, specifically Mazak and Okuma machines. The typical work schedule is from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with flexibility to start earlier or later as needed, provided the workday does not end before 3:00 p.m. The position involves working on or near production equipment, using CAD tools such as NX, Creo, and AutoCAD, and interacting regularly with manufacturing engineering and production staff. The environment emphasizes adherence to established Quality Management Systems and continuous improvement of processes and equipment performance.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Loves Park, IL.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $48.00/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 Loves Park,IL.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jun 3, 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 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 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.