R&d Engineer

Job Description

The R&D Project Engineer supports the research, development, and optimization of conveyor system technologies within a steel-based material handling environment. This role combines mechanical design, hands-on engineering, and cross-functional project execution to drive prototype development, product validation, manufacturing improvements, and new product innovation. The position is ideal for an engineer who is equally comfortable working in SolidWorks, collaborating with teams across engineering, manufacturing, and operations, and spending time on the shop floor to bring concepts into reality.

Responsibilities Include

Design and develop conveyor system technologies and components tailored to a steel-based material handling environment.
Lead and support research and development initiatives focused on improving existing conveyor products and introducing new solutions.
Create and modify 3D models and detailed drawings using SolidWorks and AutoCAD to support design, prototyping, and manufacturing.
Support prototype development, including coordinating fabrication, assembly, and testing activities on the shop floor.
Perform product validation activities, including testing, data collection, and analysis to ensure performance, reliability, and safety requirements.
Collaborate closely with manufacturing and operations teams to ensure designs are manufacturable, cost-effective, and aligned with production capabilities.
Drive process improvement and continuous improvement initiatives related to conveyor systems and material handling equipment.
Manage and coordinate R&D projects, including planning tasks, tracking progress, and communicating status to stakeholders.
Troubleshoot technical issues with conveyor systems and material handling equipment and propose effective engineering solutions.
Document designs, test results, engineering changes, and project outcomes in a clear and organized manner.

Skills & Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
5+ years of experience in material handling, conveyor systems, or industrial equipment engineering.
Proficiency in mechanical design for conveyor systems and material handling applications.
Strong 3D CAD skills with SolidWorks for modeling, assemblies, and detailed drawings.
Experience using AutoCAD for layout, schematics, or supporting documentation.
Experience working in R&D engineering with exposure to prototype development and product validation.
Hands-on experience in a manufacturing engineering environment, ideally involving steel-based equipment or structures.
Demonstrated ability to manage projects, including planning, prioritizing, and coordinating technical activities.
Experience leading or contributing to process improvement and continuous improvement initiatives.
Ability to work effectively across engineering, manufacturing, and operations teams.
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to translate practical shop-floor feedback into design improvements.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Port Clinton, OH.

Pay And Benefits

The pay range for this position is $35.00 - $50.00/hr.

Requirements

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 Port Clinton,OH.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 11, 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.
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