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3D Lab Tech Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Global 3D Print Leader

Redford, MI · On-site

$162K - $209K/yr

Within the Advanced Industrial Technology and Platforms (ATP) organization, we are the architects ... Proven track record scaling complex hardware and software from the lab to a global, multi-site ...

Quality Lab Technician

Fraser, MI · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

... technologies, engraving, and scientific refrigeration. We work with our customers to advance ... Operate and utilize quality lab equipment such as calipers, gauges, peel testers, and 3D scanning ...

Senior Connector Engineer

Southfield, MI

$96K - $132K/yr

Our teams have invented groundbreaking technologies, manufactured millions of products and earned a ... Create 3D CAD proposals * Preparing DFMEAs * Select materials, managing the FEA and making design ...

Senior Connector Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$96K - $132K/yr

Our teams have invented groundbreaking technologies, manufactured millions of products and earned a ... Create 3D CAD proposals * Preparing DFMEAs * Select materials, managing the FEA and making design ...

Senior Process Engineer - Casting

Warren, MI · On-site

$97K - $126K/yr

... technology. This group is unique in that by working with and across multiple levels of the GM ... lab specimen prep, chemistry, density, mechanical, etc) • On site work, working on shop floor ...

Specifically, the lab has a particular interest in developing and testing low-cost technologies for ... The candidate should have substantial experience in human subjects experiments and expertise in 3D ...

You will work with battery design and release engineers on cutting-edge battery technologies to ... Build 3D battery internal structural analysis CAE models from CAD designs. Debug complex finite ...

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3D Lab Tech information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do 3d lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for 3d lab tech in Detroit, MI is $22.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is being a lab tech a good career?

A 3D lab technician role involves operating and maintaining 3D printing and imaging equipment, often requiring technical skills and attention to detail. It can offer stable employment opportunities in research, manufacturing, or healthcare settings, with potential for skill development and career advancement. Job satisfaction depends on individual interests in technology and laboratory work.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

For a 3D Lab Tech, earning $300,000 annually is uncommon; such high salaries are typically associated with executive roles, specialized consultants, or senior management positions in related fields. Most 3D Lab Techs earn lower wages, but those with advanced skills, certifications, or leadership responsibilities may reach higher compensation levels over time.

How to become a 3D technologist?

To become a 3D technologist, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in 3D modeling, computer graphics, or a related field. Gaining proficiency in 3D software such as Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max, along with building a strong portfolio, is essential; certifications in specific tools can also enhance job prospects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 3D Lab Tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 3D Lab Tech, you need a solid understanding of 3D modeling, fabrication processes, and familiarity with CAD software, usually supported by a technical degree or relevant experience. Proficiency with 3D printers, scanners, and software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD, as well as basic troubleshooting skills, is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure precise production, efficient workflow, and collaboration within multidisciplinary teams in design and manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by 3D Lab Techs when managing multiple print jobs simultaneously?

3D Lab Techs often juggle several print jobs at once, which can be challenging due to varying print times, machine maintenance, and the need for precise calibration. Prioritizing tasks, quickly troubleshooting printer errors, and managing the queue efficiently are essential skills. Effective communication with designers and engineers is also important to clarify print specifications and deadlines, ensuring high-quality results while minimizing downtime.

What are 3D Lab Techs?

3D Lab Techs, or 3D Laboratory Technicians, are professionals who operate and maintain 3D printing equipment and related technology in laboratory settings. They are responsible for preparing digital files, setting up print jobs, monitoring the printing process, and performing post-processing on printed objects. Their work supports research, product development, prototyping, and manufacturing by creating accurate physical models from digital designs. 3D Lab Techs often collaborate with engineers, designers, and scientists to ensure high-quality results and efficient workflow.

What is the highest paying lab job?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Directors or Principal Investigators tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities, with specialized skills in research, management, and regulatory compliance contributing to higher compensation.
What are popular job titles related to 3D Lab Tech jobs in Detroit, MI? For 3D Lab Tech jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching 3D Lab Tech jobs in Detroit, MI look for? The top searched job categories for 3D Lab Tech jobs in Detroit, MI are:
What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for 3D Lab Tech jobs? Cities near Detroit, MI with the most 3D Lab Tech job openings:
Infographic showing various 3D Lab Tech job openings in Detroit, MI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $46,393 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Global 3D Print Leader

Ford Motor Company

Redford, MI • On-site

$162K - $209K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description


We made history and now we work to transform the future - for our customers, our communities and our families. You'll see your work on the road every day, helping people move freely and pursue their dreams. At Ford, you can build more than vehicles. Come build what matters.
Shape the Future of Manufacturing with ATP
At Ford, we aren't just building vehicles - we are redefining how the world moves. Within the Advanced Industrial Technology and Platforms (ATP) organization, we are the architects of Ford's next industrial revolution.
Our mission is clear: we build and scale industrial platforms, technologies, and capabilities that unlock Ford Firsts to drive sustained competitive advantage in manufacturing. Driven by our vision to "build once, scale everywhere," we bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and global physical deployment.
Our guiding mantra is simple yet relentless: Scale what matters, win what's next.
If you are a high-tech builder, thinker, or innovator who thrives at the intersection of software, hardware, and massive scale, ATP is where you belong. Join us, and write the next chapter of industrial history.
In this position...
  • A connected fleet of FMC3D printers operating at high utilization across our global plants and innovation hub.
  • Measurable gains in part cost, cycle time, and material strength that outpace traditional methods.
  • Additive manufacturing established as a profit center with clear revenue targets met.
  • A world-class global team and the foundational roadmap for Ford-built 3D printers.

As the Global Print Leader, you will define and execute Ford's worldwide additive manufacturing strategy. You will oversee and benchmark technology across industries and bring the right solutions to Ford to achieve our cost, cycle-time, and material-strength requirements. Your scope spans the FMC3D printer fleet at every plant, the central 3D printing innovation hub, and the complete digital value chain-from generative design through print to robotic assembly.
You will partner with Ford Performance (Racing), FCSD, and Product Development to develop new technology and high-value applications, while collaborating with other functions inside the Advanced Industrial Technology (AIT) platform to bring complementary skills together. You will be accountable for achieving the team's KPIs, including a defined target for revenue generation, and for building the talent, printer operations, and connected software systems that power a globally distributed operation. Looking ahead, you will lead the team's aspiration to design and assemble Ford's own 3D printers for Advanced Industrial Technology Platform (ATP) group.
This is a highly visible, demanding leadership role for a candidate who can bridge software, hardware, and deep materials science to deliver a step-change in manufacturing performance.
Responsibilities
What you'll do...
  • Benchmark additive technologies across aerospace, defense, and medical sectors, and bring the right ones to Ford to meet our cost, cycle-time, and material-strength requirements.
  • Architect the complete digital thread-connecting generative design, slicing software, print execution, and robotic assembly into one seamless value chain.

Run a Global Operation
  • Oversee the deployment, utilization, and performance of FMC3D printers across all Ford manufacturing plants, ensuring each plant can rapidly print the tools, fixtures, and parts it needs.
  • Deploy a unified cloud and IoT software ecosystem to monitor, connect, and optimize the global printer network in real time.

Deliver Commercial Results
  • Own the operational and financial KPIs for additive manufacturing, including a defined target for revenue generation.
  • Partner with Ford Performance (Racing), FCSD, and Product Development to engineer high-value, low-volume, and complex additive solutions.
  • Collaborate across the Advanced Industrial Technology (AIT) platform to integrate 3D printing with robotics, automation, and AI.

Build for the Future
  • Lead the strategic initiative to design, engineer, and assemble Ford's own custom 3D printers in partnership with the Advanced Technology Platform (ATP) group.
  • Recruit, mentor, and develop a world-class global team while establishing Ford's technical standards for additive manufacturing.

Qualifications
You'll have...
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • 10+ years of senior technical leadership experience, including building and leading multi-disciplinary engineering teams.
  • Deep, hands-on expertise across the additive value chain-polymers, metals, and composites-from generative design through post-processing.
  • Proven track record scaling complex hardware and software from the lab to a global, multi-site manufacturing footprint.
  • Strong commercial acumen, with experience managing P&L, capital investment, and/or revenue-generating technical services.

Even better, you may have...
  • Master's degree or Ph.D. in a relevant engineering field, or an MBA with a strong technical foundation.
  • Direct experience in aerospace, defense, or elite motorsport manufacturing environments.
  • Working knowledge of connected-factory architectures, IoT fleet management, and robotic assembly integration.
  • Proven experience establishing strategic technology partnerships or co-development agreements with equipment manufacturers.

You may not check every box, or your experience may look a little different from what we've outlined, but if you think you can bring value to Ford Motor Company, we encourage you to apply!
As an established global company, we offer the benefit of choice. You can choose what your Ford future will look like: will your story span the globe, or keep you close to home? Will your career be a deep dive into what you love, or a series of new teams and new skills? Will you be a leader, a changemaker, a technical expert, a culture builder...or all of the above? No matter what you choose, we offer a work life that works for you, including:
• Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
• Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more
• Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more
• Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases
• Tuition assistance
• Established and active employee resource groups
• Paid time off for individual and team community service
• A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year's Day
• Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time.
This position is leadership level 5 and ranges from $141,700-$268,300.
Final determination of salary grade will be based on candidate's skills and experience, and base salary will be set within the applicable range according to job scope, responsibility and competitive market value.
For more information on salary and benefits, click here: https://fordcareers.co/LL5
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Candidates for positions with Ford Motor Company must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or protected veteran status. In the United States, if you need a reasonable accommodation for the online application process due to a disability, please call 1-888-336-0660.
This position is hybrid. Candidates who are in commuting distance to a Ford hub location may be required to be onsite four or more days per week.
#LI-Hybrid
#GME
#LI-MH5
About Us
At Ford Motor Company, we believe freedom of movement drives human progress. With our incredible plans for the future of mobility, we have a wide variety of opportunities for you to accelerate your career and help us define tomorrow's transportation.
About the Team
We build world-class vehicles in our plants around the world, constantly developing new technologies and processes to further increase our efficiency. It's our people who really make the difference. We encourage all of our employees to think outside the box to help us find better and more efficient ways to manufacture our vehicles.

Ford logo

About Ford

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Ford Motor Company, we believe freedom of movement drives human progress. With our incredible plans for the future of mobility, we have a wide variety of opportunities for you to accelerate your career and help us define tomorrow's transportation.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Doral, FL, US

Year founded

1982