As cities undergo critical industrial transformation, the quality of science and technology talent directly determines the success of the shift toward “intelligent manufacturing.” With “technological innovation + advanced manufacturing” as its defining characteristic, Dongguan is facing a structural shortage of digital and intelligent talent. Consequently, its talent strategy is transitioning from “policy-induced attraction” to “ecosystem-based cultivation.” Based on an examination of Dongguan’s science and technology talent strategy, this paper analyzes the pivotal role of education in integrating the talent chain with the industrial chain, reveals the “temperature gap” between current talent cultivation and industrial demand, and proposes pathways for constructing a new “industry-education symbiosis” paradigm. By incorporating case studies, policy analysis, and comparative insights, the study aims to offer actionable insights for talent governance in similar manufacturing-oriented cities.