Additive Manufacturing Technician

Job Summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced, dynamic and proactive Additive Manufacturing Technician in our Additive Manufacturing (AM) department located in Poway, CA. This position will be part of a team and take collaborative ownership of multiple AM manufacturing operations (plastics and metal) at GA-ASI with: printers operations, post-processing of parts and material processing/management, some quality controls, process improvement and more. The selected candidate will get to operate industrial 3D printers, and will support various component printing and finishing. This exciting position will provide the candidate an opportunity to be at the forefront of GA-ASI AM production operations and application development, by ensuring parts are printed and post-processed to high standards of quality. This position is expecting to offer opportunities to learn and grow within a wide variety of AM-related technical skills.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Setup, operate and perform daily/periodical maintenance on multiple AM printers. May be called to expand operations onto other AM technologies as required (e.g. testing equipment, post-processing equipment, etc.), following proper training and mentorship.
• Participate to daily operations/production team briefings and provide inputs to priorities and operation status.
• Strictly adheres to proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), to safety processes, and help others implement safety procedures.
• Able to perform entire printing operation workflow; from build preparation, machine setup and preparation, safe material management (powder or filaments or resins), build platform post processing, support removal, thermal oven operations, part cleaning, machine clean-up, up to part pre-inspections.
• Remove support material (when applicable) from printed AM parts by mechanical means using an array of tools (EDM, band saw, hand tools, etc.) by working with other stakeholder groups, and/or perform post-print operations such as manual finishing, bead/grit blasting, tumbling, pressured air, bonding, sanding, etc.
• Learn and use of machine operating control software to support production operations.
• Perform precision measurements and pier inspections on AM parts
• Proper use of hand, power and/or pneumatic tools i.e. pliers, screw drivers, hammers and punches, chisels, saws, clamps, drills, sander, abrasives, grinders and others.
• Perform record keeping for work order processing, application and process documentation, equipment health metrics tracking, and quality reporting when applicable.
• Ensure that all AM parts are done in adherence to controlling documentations, specifications, and standards
• Hands-on and safe raw material handling including sieving, sampling, loading, blending, and packaging.
• Lift, load and unload material canisters/containers weighing upwards of 20 lbs. from floor to overhead shelf and/or into the AM machines. Specialize lifting tools can be used.
• Perform housekeeping and cleanup duties upon completion of assigned tasks. Actively participate in housekeeping efforts by maintaining an orderly, clean, and safe work area
• Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of GA-ASI.
• Performing special projects and assignments as directed by supervisor.
• Participate in Continuous Improvement Process (CIP) activities related to part processing and printer operations.
  
  
  

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Qualifications

• Typically requires associate's degree or equivalent with two or more years of experience. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
• Demonstrated experience in manufacturing environment. Defense and/or Aviation/Aerospace experience is preferred, but not necessary.
• Ability and desire to learn quickly, and take on additional responsibilities.
• Direct hands on experience processing AM parts is a clear advantage.
• Ability to lift over 40lbs occasionally and 30lbs regularly
• Experience using hand tools such as wrenches, die gages, screwdrivers, drills, brushes, chisels, blades, “Dremmels”, etc.
• Adept at working in a manufacturing environment, including wearing respiratory PPE equipment when required.
• Ability to work with computers, specifically with manufacturing-related software, Microsoft (MS) Word and Excel. Working knowledge of MS Powerpoint is valued.
• Demonstrated capability for strong attention to details, organized work habits, and high quality standard work. This will be especially vital in self-inspection of parts and traceability of powder and parts.
• Ability to accurately read and record information (i. e. material manufacture date, serial number, and other criteria) that is critical to the production process.
• Ability and willingness to work overtime hours as required (atypical).
• Ability to perform routine functions, as well as to adapt/learn to new tasks.
• Ability and experience to use precision measuring instruments (e.g. calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, precision scales, and other high precision instruments).
• Must be able to work both independently (self-driven) and on a team
• Ability to communicate an opinion clearly, voice objections and/or make recommendations.
• Ability to obtain and maintain DOD Clearance required.
  
  
  

Job Type: Full-Time Hourly

Salary range: 56,180 - 83,518