3D Printing Technician - Additive Manufacturing

3D Printing Technician – Additive Manufacturing

Company: Undisclosed
Location: Tempe, AZ
Compensation: Competitive, based on experience

Position

• Reliable transportation required
• Must be willing to undergo a background check
• Must be a U.S. Citizen
• On-site work required

About the Company

We are a rapidly growing aerospace and defense technology company specializing in the development and manufacturing of advanced unmanned systems, aerospace components, and innovative defense technologies.

Our team works across engineering, prototyping, testing, and production to bring advanced technologies from concept to deployment. We are expanding our in-house additive manufacturing capabilities and seeking technically capable individuals who thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.

Position Overview

We are seeking a 3D Printing Technician to support the operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of our additive manufacturing equipment.

This position is responsible for preparing and slicing 3D models, operating printers, diagnosing mechanical and electrical issues, performing preventative maintenance, and ensuring consistent print quality.

The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, comfortable working independently, and experienced with both 3D printing software and hardware. We value practical technical ability, resourcefulness, and problem-solving skills over formal credentials.

Key Responsibilities

3D Printing & Production

• Prepare, orient, and slice 3D models using applicable slicing software.
• Configure print parameters, supports, infill, layer heights, temperatures, and material settings.
• Set up, operate, and monitor multiple 3D printers simultaneously.
• Troubleshoot failed prints, dimensional inaccuracies, adhesion problems, and material-related defects.
• Remove supports, clean, inspect, and finish printed components as required.
• Coordinate production schedules, print queues, and material requirements.

Equipment Maintenance & Repair

• Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, and software-related printer malfunctions.
• Perform preventative maintenance, calibration, cleaning, and equipment inspections.
• Troubleshoot extruders, hotends, motion systems, sensors, heating elements, and related components.
• Replace worn or damaged components and restore equipment to operational condition.
• Maintain equipment readiness and minimize production downtime.
• Document equipment failures, repairs, and maintenance activities.

Quality & Process Improvement

• Inspect printed components for dimensional accuracy, surface quality, and manufacturing defects.
• Improve print reliability, speed, material utilization, and repeatability.
• Develop standardized machine settings, slicing profiles, and operating procedures.
• Collaborate with engineering personnel to resolve manufacturing issues and improve component designs.
• Maintain an organized, safe, and efficient production environment.

Required Qualifications

• Hands-on experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting 3D printers.
• Proficiency with slicing software such as Cura, PrusaSlicer, OrcaSlicer, Bambu Studio, Simplify3D, or equivalent.
• Working knowledge of FDM/FFF additive manufacturing processes and materials.
• Ability to diagnose and repair common mechanical and electrical equipment failures.
• Experience with printer calibration, extrusion systems, and motion-control components.
• Ability to interpret basic technical drawings and manufacturing instructions.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and independent problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple machines and production priorities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience maintaining commercial or industrial 3D printers.
• Familiarity with CAD software such as SolidWorks or Fusion 360.
• Experience with PETG, ABS, ASA, nylon, and carbon-fiber-reinforced polymers.
• Experience modifying G-code, firmware settings, or printer hardware.
• Basic electrical troubleshooting skills, including multimeter use, wiring, and component replacement.
• Experience with dimensional inspection and production quality control.
• Background in aerospace, defense, robotics, or precision manufacturing.

What We're Looking For

We are looking for a technician who enjoys working with machines, understanding how they function, and solving problems when they don't.

The right candidate takes ownership of equipment reliability, identifies problems before they interrupt production, and continually looks for ways to improve manufacturing performance.

This is a hands-on technical position with opportunities for expanded responsibilities as our manufacturing operations grow.

Work Environment

• On-site manufacturing facility in Tempe, Arizona.
• Hands-on engineering and manufacturing environment.
• Direct collaboration with engineers and technicians.
• Opportunity to support advanced aerospace and defense manufacturing programs.

The company listing this position is undisclosed and will be disclosed during the interview process.