Additive Manufacturing Specialist

Additive Manufacturing Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Additive Manufacturing Specialist manages prototype builds from the initial request through completed parts. This hands-on role balances daily prototype production with the development and improvement of the organization's additive manufacturing capabilities across polymer and metal printing technologies.

The specialist works with internal requestors to understand part requirements, develop or prepare suitable geometry, select an appropriate process and material, and carry builds through post-processing and inspection. The role also develops improvements in print quality, the production of complex features, and the use of new materials. Success requires a strong interest in 3D printing, careful attention to detail, and full ownership of equipment, materials, and the work area.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Prototype Production and Build Coordination

· Manage prototype requests from intake through completion, including clarifying requirements, planning work, communicating status, and preparing finished parts.

· Prepare build files and machine setups, operate additive manufacturing equipment, and monitor builds in accordance with established procedures and required training.

· Complete or coordinate appropriate part removal, cleaning, curing, support removal, finishing, and inspection for each process. Verify completed work against the request and communicate defects, deviations, or limitations.

CAD Modeling and Geometry Preparation

· Create or modify CAD models and prepare part geometry for additive manufacturing based on design intent and part requirements.

· Review geometry for print readiness and manufacturability; identify features or design details that may affect build success, quality, or the ability to produce complex features, and coordinate needed changes with requestors.

· Prepare build-ready models by applying appropriate orientation, supports, and other process-specific preparation using relevant CAD and build-preparation software.

Process Development and Improvement

· Develop and evaluate process changes that improve print quality, repeatability, and the ability to produce complex features.

· Explore new materials and applications for the in-house additive manufacturing capabilities.

· Plan and conduct practical trials, changing controlled process variables and recording results so that successful approaches can be repeated.

· Troubleshoot build failures and quality issues, identify likely causes, and recommend corrective actions.

· Maintain clear work instructions and process records for established and developing methods.

Equipment, Materials, and Work Area

· Take full day-to-day ownership of additive manufacturing equipment, associated tools, and supporting work areas.

· Perform proactive inspections, routine maintenance, cleaning, and upkeep; identify equipment concerns and coordinate service or repair when needed.

· Keep materials, consumables, and commonly used supplies organized, monitor inventory, and arrange replenishment in time to support planned work.

· Maintain a clean, orderly, and safe work area, including appropriate handling, storage, and disposal of materials and waste.

Safe and Reproducible Work Practices

· Operate equipment and handle materials only under applicable safety controls, procedures, and training.

· Keep requests, build settings, materials, machine use, process trials, maintenance, inspections, and outcomes organized and traceable so work can be reviewed and repeated.

· Share observations and practical recommendations that improve the reliability and usefulness of the additive manufacturing operation.

QUALIFICATIONS:

We welcome applicants with hands-on experience in one or more additive manufacturing processes. Training will be provided for additional equipment and methods.

Has experience creating or modifying CAD models and preparing geometry for additive manufacturing, and practical familiarity with relevant build-preparation or slicing software.

Approaches 3D printing with genuine interest, curiosity, patience, and a desire to improve print quality, process capability, and material options.

Demonstrates careful, organized working habits and takes responsibility for equipment condition, supplies, records, and maintaining a clean work area.

Has mechanical aptitude and can follow detailed work instructions, recognize when a process or result appears abnormal, and investigate or escalate issues appropriately.

Can document work clearly and communicate effectively with internal requestors and technical colleagues.

Relevant technical education, training, or equivalent hands-on experience is valued. Practical ability, attention to detail, and readiness to learn are important.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $30.00 - $45.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

• Westbrook, CT 06498 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Benefits:

Salary : $30 - $45