Prototype Technician

Prototyping Lab Technician

We are seeking a mechanically inclined, hands-on technician to join our prototyping lab team focused on developing consumer products. This role supports the creation of small-scale prototypes, lab fixtures, and pilot samples of soap-based personal care products. The ideal candidate will work closely under an experienced lab specialist with a background in toolmaking and lab-scale processing, gaining exposure to both mechanical prototyping and formulation processes.

Responsibilities

• Prototype Fabrication & Assembly: Build and assemble small prototypes using hand tools, lab equipment, and basic machining techniques.
• Clean and finish 3D printed parts (SLA and FDM).
• Machine small metal components for lab fixtures and test setups.
• 3D Printing Operations: Operate, maintain, and optimize SLA and FDM 3D printers.
• Troubleshoot and repair 3D printers as needed.
• Perform pre- and post-processing of printed parts.
• Lab Support & Learning: Assist in lab-scale processing of soap-based personal care products.
• Learn and support lab procedures under the guidance of the senior specialist.
• Maintain lab cleanliness, organization, and safety standards.
• Design & Documentation: Support CAD design tasks (SolidWorks preferred).
• Document procedures, maintenance logs, and prototype iterations.
• Communicate findings and progress to team members.

Essential Skills

Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on skills. Experience working with tools, machines, and lab equipment. Familiarity with 3D printing technologies (SLA, FDM). Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a lab setting. Comfortable with basic machining (drilling, grinding, filing, etc.).

Additional Skills & Qualifications

3D printing knowledge and experience. Preferred design experience with SolidWorks. Prior experience in a prototyping or R&D lab. Exposure to consumer product development or formulation. Basic understanding of electro-mechanical systems. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. Manual dexterity for small part assembly and machine operation.

Work Environment

Work in two different R&D labs: one for 3D printing plastics and metals, and the other for soap testing. The environment promotes mechanical creativity and consumer product innovation, providing mentorship from a seasoned lab specialist.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Milford, Connecticut.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $35.00/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 Type

This is a fully onsite position in Milford, CT.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 10, 2025.

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 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.