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Mechanical Engineer

Actalent

Seattle, WA 98101 • $55.00 / hr • 10/6/2026

Job Description

Job Description
Mechanical Engineer Failure Analysis SupportAbout the Role

We are looking for a hands-on Mechanical Engineer to support failure analysis and materials testing for advanced hardware development programs. In this role, you'll investigate why components and prototypes fail, perform laboratory testing, and help engineering teams improve product designs and manufacturing processes.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working in a lab environment, solving technical problems, operating specialized testing equipment, and collaborating with cross-functional engineering teams.

What You'll Do
  • Perform hands-on laboratory testing and failure analysis of mechanical and electronic components.
  • Inspect parts and assemblies using microscopes, X-ray systems, and CT scanning equipment.
  • Prepare samples through cutting, polishing, cross-sectioning, and other laboratory techniques.
  • Conduct materials testing to evaluate product performance, reliability, and durability.
  • Perform electrical troubleshooting and basic fault isolation on hardware.
  • Complete soldering and rework activities on electronic assemblies when needed.
  • Document test methods, results, and conclusions in technical reports.
  • Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and lab documentation.
  • Support root-cause investigations and provide recommendations for design and process improvements.
  • Maintain laboratory equipment and follow all safety procedures.
  • Collaborate with engineers and technical teams to solve complex hardware issues.
Required Qualifications
  • Associate's degree in Engineering Technology, Materials Science, Laboratory Technology, or a related field.
  • At least 2 years of experience in a laboratory, testing, failure analysis, or engineering environment.
  • Experience with sample preparation and cross-sectioning techniques.
  • Familiarity with microscopes, optical inspection equipment, and measurement tools.
  • Experience with X-ray or CT inspection systems.
  • Basic electrical troubleshooting and bench testing experience.
  • Hand soldering and rework experience.
  • Strong technical writing and documentation skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering field.
  • Experience performing root-cause failure analysis.
  • Hands-on experience with SEM/EDX, EDS, FTIR, or similar analytical equipment.
  • Aerospace, electronics, semiconductor, or advanced manufacturing experience.
  • Experience with VGSTUDIO or similar CT/X-ray analysis software.
  • Experience with 3D printing, machining, or custom fixture design.
  • Knowledge of materials testing and reliability engineering.
Work Environment

This is a full-time, onsite laboratory-based position. You'll work with advanced testing and analysis equipment in a collaborative engineering environment focused on innovation, technical problem-solving, and continuous improvement. Occasional domestic and international travel (up to 10%) may be required.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineer who enjoys troubleshooting hardware, working in a laboratory environment, conducting failure investigations, and using advanced analytical tools to uncover root causes and improve product reliability.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Seattle, WA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $55.00 - $55.00/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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Seattle,WA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 12, 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 withoutregard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability,sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protectedby law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification oradjustment 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 thecity and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicantswith arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as acondition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this lawshall 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 applicationsand qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, youacknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.