What are the responsibilities and job description for the Additive Manufacturing Technician position at Firestorm?
Who We Are
At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors—regardless of their defense budget—through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost.
About The Role
At Firestorm Labs, we are building the future of distributed, mission-adaptive airpower for the modern warfighter. As an Additive Manufacturing Technician, you’ll be on the front lines of advanced production — working directly on the shop floor to manufacture mission-critical aerospace components. This role involves operating metal and polymer additive manufacturing (AM) systems [with a focus on laser powder bed fusion], executing builds, performing post-processing, ensuring quality and driving continuous improvement in support of agile aerospace development.
This full-time, hands-on role requires someone who thrives in a fast-paced startup environment, takes pride in building hardware, and is ready to own outcomes from machine setup to finished part. You’ll play a vital role in scaling our internal production capability to support rapid prototyping, flight testing, and deployment of next-generation UAV and UAS platforms.
What You’ll Do
US Hourly Range: $25 - $45 USD
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
Benefits & Perks
Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.
Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.
PI275240845
At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors—regardless of their defense budget—through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost.
About The Role
At Firestorm Labs, we are building the future of distributed, mission-adaptive airpower for the modern warfighter. As an Additive Manufacturing Technician, you’ll be on the front lines of advanced production — working directly on the shop floor to manufacture mission-critical aerospace components. This role involves operating metal and polymer additive manufacturing (AM) systems [with a focus on laser powder bed fusion], executing builds, performing post-processing, ensuring quality and driving continuous improvement in support of agile aerospace development.
This full-time, hands-on role requires someone who thrives in a fast-paced startup environment, takes pride in building hardware, and is ready to own outcomes from machine setup to finished part. You’ll play a vital role in scaling our internal production capability to support rapid prototyping, flight testing, and deployment of next-generation UAV and UAS platforms.
What You’ll Do
- Take full ownership of daily shop floor AM operations with a focus on metal additive manufacturing (LPBF).
- Set up, operate, and maintain a variety of industrial AM systems, including both metal and polymer printers.
- Execute print builds from start to finish, including powder loading, calibration, build execution, and post-processing (e.g., support removal, heat treatment, surface finishing).
- Conduct measurements and inspections using calipers, micrometers, optical microscopes, and CMMs to verify part quality and dimensional accuracy.
- Monitor builds in real-time, identify and troubleshoot issues, and document outcomes for future process optimization.
- Handle and manage consumables safely, including sieving, recycling, and traceability logging in compliance with safety protocols.
- Collaborate with engineers to optimize parts for additive manufacturing and resolve build issues quickly.
- Support and maintain shop infrastructure, machine peripherals, and tooling.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment using 5S principles.
- Support compliance with ISO, AS9100, ITAR, and internal QA standards, and participate in audits or documentation reviews.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives by proposing updates to process documentation, SOPs, and quality procedures.
- 3 years of experience in manufacturing, aerospace, spacecraft, mechanical or technical trade role (e.g., AM, CNC machining, aircraft assembly).
- 1 years of direct experience with additive manufacturing systems or similar high-value production equipment.
- Minimum of a High School diploma or GED.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on skills with shop tools, air tools and inspection equipment, to accomplish a given task.
- Familiarity with build prep software (e.g., Magics, 3DXpert, GrabCAD Print, Cura, HP Smart stream, etc.).
- Ability to interpret technical drawings and apply GD&T principles.
- Comfortable working with hazardous materials (e.g., powders, compressed gases) under safety-controlled conditions.
- Proficient communication skills; ability to work independently and collaboratively in a small team environment.
- U.S. Person status (Citizen or Permanent Resident) required due to ITAR regulations.
- 3 years of experience operating industrial AM systems (metal and/or polymer).
- Experience with multi jet fusion (MJF) systems and safe powder handling practices.
- Experience with general manufacturing methods and familiarity with post-processing workflows such as EDM, HIP, CNC machining, electropolishing, or stress relief.
- Background in aerospace, defense, or regulated manufacturing environments (AS9100, ISO 9001).
- Knowledge of CAD/CAM software and design for additive manufacturing (DfAM) principles.
- Prior hands-on experience with kit, model, or experimental aircraft builds, or familiarity with aircraft components and typical terminology.
- Experience with common aerospace construction techniques such as riveting, mechanical fasteners, nut plates, etc.
- Experience in a prototyping or low-rate production environment.
- Comfortable with flexible hours as needed to support rapid build/test schedules or occasional weekend work.
- Based at our Headquarters in San Diego, CA.
- This role is manufacturing-focused and requires daily on-site presence; remote work is not applicable.
- Must be able to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50–75 lbs, and wear appropriate PPE.
- Exposure to power tools, metal powders, high-temperature components, and 3D printing equipment.
- Regular work in a hands-on, shop floor environment with exposure to powders, high-temp components, and machinery.
- PPE is required and provided; adherence to all safety protocols and environmental controls is mandatory.
- Occasional travel (up to 10%) to partner sites, test sites, or vendor facilities may be required.
US Hourly Range: $25 - $45 USD
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
Benefits & Perks
Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:
- We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
- Unlimited PTO
- Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in December.
- Generous Parental Leave
- FSA
- HSA
- Hospital Indemnity insurance
- Critical Illness insurance
- Accident insurance
- Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
- Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.
Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.
PI275240845
Salary : $25 - $45