R&D Machinist

Job Description

This role focuses on fabricating mechanical components for test equipment used in manufacturing and product development prototypes. The R&D Machinist creates and assembles precision parts and complete systems based on engineering prints or direction, while supporting CAD/CAM activities and contributing to continuous improvement of fabrication processes. The position requires strong technical machining skills, effective collaboration with engineering teams, and a commitment to delivering high-quality products and services to internal and external customers.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate mechanical components for test equipment used in manufacturing and product development prototypes.

• Assemble components and complete systems based on engineering prints or as directed by engineering teams.

• Perform all work in a neat and professional manner, maintaining a clean, organized work area.

• Support the maintenance of the Solutions Lab to 6S standards, contributing to a safe and efficient workspace.

• Support ongoing efforts to improve fabrication processes by identifying opportunities to enhance quality and reduce cost.

• Provide constructive feedback and suggestions for process improvements to engineering and relevant stakeholders.

• Deliver high-quality products and services to internal and external customers, meeting defined specifications and expectations.

• Support CAD/CAM efforts as needed, including programming, tool pathing, and related tasks.

• Communicate effectively with engineering teams to clarify requirements, resolve issues, and provide status updates.

• Own equipment maintenance activities, ensuring CNC machines and related tools operate safely and efficiently.

• Monitor and maintain stock items for the shop, helping ensure materials, tools, and consumables are available when needed.

Essential Skills

• Proficiency with CAD software for mechanical design and fabrication support.

• Hands-on experience with SolidCAM for CNC programming and tool path generation.

• Experience in CNC programming, including setting up, operating, and optimizing CNC machining processes.

• Working knowledge of SolidWorks for interpreting and modifying 3D models and engineering drawings.

• Experience with Creo or similar 3D CAD tools for mechanical component design and modification.

• Ability to develop and optimize tool paths for efficient and accurate machining.

• Ability to fully operate CNC machines and perform all manual machining processes.

• Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with engineering teams and internal customers.

• A minimum of an Associate's degree in machining or a related field.

• 3-5 years of related experience preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform the key job accountabilities.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience supporting CAD/CAM initiatives in a manufacturing or prototype development environment.

• Experience in fabricating components for test equipment or similar precision mechanical systems.

• Demonstrated ability to identify and implement process improvements that enhance quality or reduce costs.

• Experience working within structured workplace organization frameworks such as 6S or similar methodologies.

• Proven ability to manage equipment maintenance and coordinate shop inventory or stock items.

• Customer-focused mindset with a commitment to delivering high-quality products and services.

Work Environment

The role is based in a fabrication and solutions lab environment that emphasizes neatness, professionalism, and adherence to 6S standards. The R&D Machinist works hands-on with CNC machines, manual machining equipment, and CAD/CAM tools such as SolidCAM, SolidWorks, and Creo. The work involves fabricating and assembling mechanical components and systems for test equipment, closely collaborating with engineering teams in a production and prototype development setting. The environment supports continuous improvement, with a focus on process optimization, quality, and cost efficiency, and requires consistent attention to equipment maintenance and shop stock levels.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Neenah, WI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $60000.00 - $70000.00/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 Neenah,WI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 19, 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.