Production Engineer

The Production Engineer will drive continuous improvement in a high-volume manufacturing environment by evaluating equipment and tooling, developing and implementing new manufacturing processes, and optimizing workflow and floor layouts. This role works hands-on with CNC machining, tooling, and process controls while collaborating closely with cross-functional teams to meet production, quality, and cost objectives. The position combines technical problem-solving, project leadership, and direct involvement on the production floor to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operations.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate production equipment, hardware, and tooling, and recommend improvements, upgrades, or replacements to enhance safety, quality, and efficiency.
• Lead the development, testing, and implementation of new manufacturing processes and controls, ensuring they are robust, repeatable, and aligned with production goals.
• Oversee the installation, modification, and commissioning of equipment, and ensure proper integration into existing production lines.
• Train production staff on new equipment, processes, and systems, providing clear instructions and ongoing support to ensure proper operation and adherence to standards.
• Analyze workflow, floor layout, and equipment utilization to identify bottlenecks and opportunities for process optimization and cost reduction.
• Estimate production timelines, labor requirements, and costs to support planning and management decision-making.
• Collaborate closely with management, production, maintenance, and engineering teams to support manufacturing objectives and resolve issues quickly.
• Lead engineering projects from concept through completion, including managing orders, contracts, timelines, and communication with internal stakeholders.
• Provide hands-on support for manufacturing equipment and processes, including setup, adjustment, and troubleshooting.
• Focus on tooling selection and application, including cutting tools, components, and inserts, and ensure that tooling is optimized for performance, quality, and cost.
• Apply practical knowledge of CNC machines, including their operation, setup, and basic programming or parameter adjustments as needed.
• Troubleshoot machining processes and equipment issues to minimize downtime and improve process stability.
• Operate machines when needed to validate processes, support troubleshooting, or assist production teams.
• Work as part of a cross-functional engineering group, contributing to a team-based approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement.
• Support process control initiatives involving PLCs, pneumatics, and other automation systems as they relate to manufacturing equipment.

• 1–3 years of experience in a manufacturing or production environment; automotive manufacturing experience preferred.
• With a bachelor’s degree in engineering: 1–3 years of experience in manufacturing or production.
• Without a degree: 3–5 years of experience in manufacturing or production.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a 2-year technical degree, or equivalent hands-on experience in manufacturing engineering or production.
• Strong engineering and manufacturing engineering background with a solid understanding of manufacturing principles and process optimization.
• Hands-on experience with line maintenance and troubleshooting of machines and production equipment.
• Working knowledge of industrial electrical and mechanical systems as they relate to manufacturing equipment.
• Practical experience with CNC machining, including how machines run, operate, and are set up.
• Experience with tooling, including cutting tools, components, inserts, and their function and application in machining processes.
• Ability to troubleshoot machining processes and equipment issues in a fast-paced production environment.
• Experience working with PLCs, process control systems, pneumatics, and related automation technologies.
• Proficiency with CAD software such as AutoCAD or similar tools for reviewing and updating layouts, tooling designs, or equipment modifications.
• Proficiency with the Microsoft Office suite for documentation, reporting, and project tracking.
• Ability to stand, walk, and perform light physical activity on the production floor as needed.
• Ability to lift or move up to 50 pounds, with or without assistance.
• Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and communicate clearly with production, maintenance, and management.

• Experience in an automotive manufacturing environment.
• Experience leading engineering projects, including managing orders, contracts, and timelines.
• Comfort working in a hands-on, maintenance-focused setting while prioritizing tooling and machining expertise.
• Experience collaborating in cross-functional teams and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Willingness to operate machines when needed to support production and validate process changes.
• Openness to learning new software and daily activities related to machining, tooling, and maintenance through structured onsite training lasting approximately 4–6 weeks.
• Strong problem-solving mindset with the ability to analyze root causes and implement practical solutions.
• Interest in career growth and advancement within an organization that promotes from within.

The role is based in a busy manufacturing facility with a strong emphasis on teamwork and hands-on engineering support. Approximately 90% of the time is spent on the production floor working directly with equipment, CNC machines, tooling, and production teams, and about 10% is spent in an office environment handling documentation, analysis, and project coordination. You will work alongside two other engineers, as well as a broader support team including leadership and an engineering coordinator, and you will tackle challenges collaboratively as a team. The environment includes exposure to a dirty manufacturing floor with machining operations, process controls, pneumatics, and industrial equipment, so comfort in a shop-floor setting is important. Onsite training is provided for software, machining, tooling, and maintenance activities over a 4–6 week period. The organization offers competitive pay, advancement opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package that may include medical, dental, and vision insurance (with HSA options), a 401(k) with company match, paid time off and holidays, tuition reimbursement, Flexible Spending Accounts, company-paid short- and long-term disability, employee referral and recognition programs, wellness and appreciation events, and regular company events such as appreciation lunches and other team activities. The culture supports internal promotions and career growth in a collaborative, supportive engineering team environment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Tell City, IN.

The pay range for this position is $71000.00 - $82000.00/yr.

• Affordable insurance options (medical, dental, vision – including HSA plans)
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off & holidays
• Tuition reimbursement
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Company-paid Short & Long-Term Disability
• Employee referral and recognition programs
• Wellness and appreciation events
• Career growth opportunities

This is a fully onsite position in Tell City,IN.

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 17, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.