Process Engineer

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated Engineer or Scientist to lead and contribute to the development of next-generation optical fiber manufacturing. In this role, you apply expertise in mechanical engineering, physics, or related fields to optimize preform and fiber draw technology, driving improved product performance. You will invent and mature R&D mechanical system designs, support process design and execution, troubleshoot complex manufacturing challenges, and innovate in systems for fiber draw while collaborating closely with cross-functional teams to advance cutting-edge optical fiber technologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead and contribute to the development of next-generation optical fiber manufacturing processes and technologies.
• Optimize preform and fiber draw technology to support improved product performance and manufacturing efficiency.
• Invent, design, and mature R&D mechanical systems used in optical fiber production.
• Support process design, implementation, and execution within the manufacturing environment.
• Troubleshoot process and equipment issues related to fiber draw and associated systems.
• Conduct material analysis and qualification testing to validate new processes and designs.
• Apply mechanical and electrical design principles to develop and refine industrial products and systems.
• Use CAD software to create, modify, and document mechanical designs and components.
• Ensure processes and documentation align with ISO 9001 quality standards and best practices.
• Collaborate closely with a diverse group of engineering professionals and manufacturing team members at all levels.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and innovation efforts in optical fiber manufacturing.

Essential Skills

• Proven experience in process development within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Proficiency with CAD software for mechanical design and documentation.
• Strong background in mechanical design for industrial products and systems.
• Experience with qualification testing and validation of engineering designs and processes.
• Ability to perform material analysis to support process optimization and product performance.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 standards and quality systems in an engineering or manufacturing context.
• Understanding of electrical design principles relevant to manufacturing equipment and systems.
• Bachelors degree in Engineering.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Academic or practical background in mechanical engineering, physics, or related technical fields.
• Experience working in optical fiber or similar high-precision manufacturing environments.
• Strong collaboration skills and ability to work effectively within cross-functional engineering and manufacturing teams.
• Interest in R&D-focused roles that involve inventing and maturing new mechanical system designs.
• Motivation to learn and upskill alongside a diverse group of engineering professionals.
• Comfort with troubleshooting complex technical problems in a production setting.

Work Environment

You join a small, close-knit team with a strong, positive culture that values collaboration, pride in work, and long-term commitment. The environment emphasizes teamwork and regular interaction with all levels of the manufacturing organization, making this role ideal for someone who enjoys working closely with people in a team-oriented setting. This is a fully onsite position with typical hours from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The site is part of a globally recognized optical fiber operation known for its job stability, strong team culture, and opportunities to learn from experienced engineering professionals. The facility takes pride in being a top-performing location and offers a supportive atmosphere for professional growth and skill development.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Sturbridge, MA.

The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $70.00/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 to Hire position based out of Sturbridge, MA.

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 26, 2026.

This is a fully onsite position in Sturbridge,MA.

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 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.