Manufacturing Engineer

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionJob Title: Manufacturing EngineerJob DescriptionWe are seeking Manufacturing Process Development Engineers for 6-month contract roles, with the possibility of extensions or conversion to full-time employment. The role involves developing and implementing robust manufacturing processes to ensure defense products are produced efficiently, reliably, and at scale. You will design, optimize, and implement processes with a focus on manual assembly operations, dispense applications, and technical documentation creation.ResponsibilitiesDesign and optimize manual assembly processes to maximize efficiency, quality, and repeatability in a high-volume, low-mix production environment.Develop comprehensive manufacturing work instructions and process documentation with clear visual aids to enable consistent production quality.Provide active lineside support during production, addressing process deviations and implementing solutions to maintain production flow.Drive issue resolution through root cause analysis, corrective actions, and preventive measures to continuously improve manufacturing processes.Collaborate with cross-functional teams including design engineering, quality, and production to ensure manufacturability of new and existing products.Evaluate and implement process improvements to reduce cycle time, minimize defects, and increase overall manufacturing efficiency.Support new product introductions by developing robust manufacturing processes that can scale from prototype to production.Participate in design reviews to provide manufacturing feedback and ensure designs are optimized for assembly.Engineer and optimize manual dispensing operations for adhesives, sealants, thermal materials, and other critical applications.Support assembly line for electronics and ESD (electrostatic discharge).Essential Skills3+ years of experience in manufacturing process development, preferably in a high-reliability industry.Demonstrated expertise in creating clear, detailed work instructions and manufacturing process documentation.Experience optimizing manual assembly operations and establishing standardized work.Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field.Proven ability to analyze and improve manufacturing processes using lean manufacturing principles.Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with the ability to implement effective solutions quickly.Proficiency with CAD software for creating assembly documentation and tooling design.Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience with adhesives, sealants, thermal materials, or electronics assembly.Knowledge of Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA) principles.Familiarity with Statistical Process Control (SPC) and capability studies.Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.Experience with manufacturing execution systems and digital work instructions.Active US DoD Secret Clearance.Work EnvironmentThe role is based in a new manufacturing site located in Santa Ana, California, where the company is experiencing strong growth and investor confidence. The work environment involves establishing or assembly lines in a workbench style in a fast-paced, dynamic setting. The position may require working later shifts or a mix of hours to collaborate with second-shift production teams. This opportunity allows you to work on state-of-the-art technology supporting the defense industryJob Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Santa Ana, CA.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $50.00 - $60.00/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 TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Santa Ana,CA.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Jan 14, 2026.About ActalentActalent 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 actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.