Entry-level Electrical Engineer Job DescriptionThis role focuses on hands-on debug, testing, and support of electronic assemblies and printed circuit boards within a manufacturing environment. You will apply foundational electrical engineering knowledge to troubleshoot issues, maintain test equipment, support test operators, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives while gaining experience with professional engineering practices and processes.Responsibilities
- Debug and test electronic assemblies down to the component level using block diagrams, schematics, and appropriate test equipment.
- Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and upkeep of test equipment and testers to ensure reliable operation.
- Troubleshoot operator-reported problems, identify root causes, and collaborate with leadership to improve training and processes.
- Provide training, guidance, and ongoing technical support to Test Operators on proper test methods and procedures.
- Communicate test issues, equipment concerns, and product problems clearly and promptly to Test Engineers and leadership.
- Assist in planning and executing experiments to support failure analysis and root cause investigations on electronic products and PCBs.
- Recommend additional or improved test and debug equipment to leadership and Test Engineers to enhance product debug capabilities.
- Participate actively in Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen activities to drive continuous improvement in test processes and product quality.
- Comply with and follow all company security policies, procedures, and guidelines when handling products, equipment, and documentation.
- Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned to support the broader engineering and manufacturing teams.
- Work on problems of limited scope by following standard practices and procedures to analyze data and situations and derive clear solutions.
- Build stable working relationships with internal team members across test, engineering, and manufacturing functions.
- Learn and apply professional engineering concepts and company policies to resolve routine technical and process issues.
- Follow detailed instructions and established workflows on all assigned tasks while gradually increasing independence and responsibility.
Essential Skills
- Minimum of 1 year of experience soldering on printed circuit boards (PCBs).
- Minimum of 1 year of experience testing PCBs in a production or laboratory environment.
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in an electronics or electrical-related discipline or a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) with an interest in hands-on technical work.
- Proficiency in soldering and reworking electronic components on PCBs.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, block diagrams, and blueprints.
- Experience using test equipment such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, and other electronic measurement tools.
- Foundational knowledge of electrical engineering principles and electronic circuits.
- Demonstrated troubleshooting skills for electronics, including diagnosing faults at the board and component level.
- Ability to perform debug and testing of electronic assemblies and PCB-based products.
- Competence in using basic hand tools and power tools commonly used in electronics assembly and test.
- Ability to follow standard operating procedures, test instructions, and engineering guidelines accurately.
- Strong communication skills to relay technical issues and collaborate effectively with engineers, operators, and leadership.
- Willingness to follow detailed instructions and company policies while learning and applying professional concepts.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Experience with PCB design concepts or exposure to PCB layout and design tools.
- Familiarity with general electronics assembly processes and best practices.
- Experience with test equipment maintenance and basic calibration activities.
- Exposure to Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen methodologies and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Ability to support and train others, including test operators, on test processes and equipment usage.
- Comfort working with engineering documentation, including test plans, procedures, and work instructions.
- Strong attention to detail and a methodical approach to failure analysis and root cause investigations.
- Interest in developing a career that blends hands-on technical work with engineering principles.
- Ability to build positive working relationships and collaborate within cross-functional teams.
- Adaptability to take on additional duties and responsibilities as needed to support evolving business and technical needs.
Work EnvironmentThis position is fully on-site in a manufacturing setting in Rochester. You will work primarily on the production floor and in test areas, handling electronic assemblies and PCBs using oscilloscopes, multimeters, test fixtures, and other electronic test equipment. The environment involves regular use of soldering equipment, basic hand tools, and power tools, as well as interaction with test operators, engineers, and production staff. Work follows structured procedures and schedules typical of a manufacturing operation, with an emphasis on safety, quality, and adherence to company policies and security procedures.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Rochester, MN. Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $28.00 - $32.10/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) Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Rochester, MN. Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 20, 2026. Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Rochester,MN.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 actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com 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.
