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3D Printer Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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You'll be embedded with operators throughout their 8-hour shift, keeping stations running smoothly ... Familiarity with 3D printing and CAD basics * Understanding of general wiring troubleshooting

New

CNC Programmer

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$38 - $55/hr

Program, set-up, and operate LFAM 3D Printers, as well as smaller resin and filament fed 3D ... machine setup/operator. * Have a high sense of urgency, with a strong attention to detail.

CNC Programmer

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$38 - $55/hr

Program, set-up, and operate LFAM 3D Printers, as well as smaller resin and filament fed 3D ... machine setup/operator. * Have a high sense of urgency, with a strong attention to detail.

Senior Manufacturing Process Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$117K - $152K/yr

We operate one of the world's largest production 3D printing farms for consumer lighting and are ... Write standards and train operators to follow them * Evaluate and integrate new production ...

Senior Manufacturing Process Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$117K - $152K/yr

We operate one of the world's largest production 3D printing farms for consumer lighting and are ... Write standards and train operators to follow them * Evaluate and integrate new production ...

Be Seen First

You'll be embedded with operators throughout their 8-hour shift, keeping stations running smoothly ... Familiarity with 3D printing and CAD basics * Understanding of general wiring troubleshooting

New

CNC Programmer

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$38 - $55/hr

Program, set-up, and operate LFAM 3D Printers, as well as smaller resin and filament fed 3D ... machine setup/operator. * Have a high sense of urgency, with a strong attention to detail.

Additive Technician

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Demonstrated experience operating and maintaining FDM/FFF/SLA 3D printing systems in professional or personal fabrication environments. * 4+ years working in a production/manufacturing environment ...

Additive Technician

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Demonstrated experience operating and maintaining FDM/FFF/SLA 3D printing systems in professional or personal fabrication environments. * 4+ years working in a production/manufacturing environment ...

Additive Technician

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Demonstrated experience operating and maintaining FDM/FFF/SLA 3D printing systems in professional or personal fabrication environments. * 4+ years working in a production/manufacturing environment ...

... 3D printing systems * Build robust multithreaded applications in modern C++ for motion control, automation, and machine orchestration * Develop and maintain operator-facing GUI applications for ...

... 3D printing systems * Build robust multithreaded applications in modern C++ for motion control, automation, and machine orchestration * Develop and maintain operator-facing GUI applications for ...

Showing results 41-60

3D Printer Operator information

See California salary details

$12

$18

$25

How much do 3d printer operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for 3d printer operator in California is $18.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 3d printer operator?

A 3D Printer Operator is responsible for setting up, maintaining, and overseeing 3D printing machines to produce parts or prototypes according to design specifications. They prepare printing materials, calibrate printers, troubleshoot technical issues, and ensure quality control throughout the printing process. Operators may also perform post-processing tasks, such as sanding, painting, or assembling printed components. This role requires knowledge of 3D printing technologies, software, and materials. Attention to detail and problem-solving skills are essential to ensure successful prints and minimal errors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 3d printer operator?

A successful 3D Printer Operator typically has a solid understanding of additive manufacturing processes, mechanical aptitude, and experience with CAD software or related technical education. Familiarity with industry-standard 3D printers, troubleshooting tools, and possibly certification in 3D printing technologies are highly valuable. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators manage production schedules and address print issues efficiently. These skills are essential to ensure high-quality outputs, minimize downtime, and contribute to successful collaborative manufacturing projects.

What are some typical challenges a 3d printer operator might face on the job?

As a 3D Printer Operator, you may encounter challenges such as print failures due to hardware issues, material inconsistencies, or software errors, which require quick troubleshooting and adjustments. Managing multiple print jobs simultaneously while ensuring timely delivery and maintaining quality standards is also a common responsibility. Additionally, operators often need to communicate effectively with engineers and designers to clarify specifications or resolve technical issues. Navigating these challenges develops valuable problem-solving skills and prepares you for advancement into more specialized manufacturing roles.

Are 3D Printer Operator jobs in demand?

3D Printer Operator jobs are in growing demand as additive manufacturing becomes more integrated into industries like aerospace, healthcare, and automotive. These roles often require knowledge of 3D modeling, printer maintenance, and safety protocols, with job opportunities increasing as companies adopt 3D printing technology for prototyping and production.

Can anyone operate a 3D printer?

3D Printer Operators typically need basic technical skills and training to operate and maintain 3D printers safely and effectively. While some models are user-friendly, proper understanding of software, materials, and safety protocols is important, and certifications may be required for certain workplaces.

How do you become a 3D printer operator?

To become a 3D printer operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and familiarity with 3D printing software and hardware. Relevant skills include understanding CAD design, maintenance of 3D printers, and attention to detail; some positions may require certification or training in additive manufacturing. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or technical courses can improve job prospects.

How much do 3D printer operators make?

3D printer operators typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators who manage complex printers or work in specialized fields may earn higher wages.

What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Printer Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of 3D Printer Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to 3D Printer Operator jobs in California?

For 3D Printer Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching 3D Printer Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for 3D Printer Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for 3D Printer Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most 3D Printer Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various 3D Printer Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,699 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Quality Inspector, Additive Manufacturing

Joby Aviation

Marina, CA

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Company Overview

Imagine a piloted air taxi that takes off vertically, then quietly carries you and your fellow passengers over the congested city streets below, enabling you to spend more time with the people and places that matter most. Since 2009, our team has worked steadily to make this dream a reality. We've designed and tested many generations of prototype aircraft capable of serving in a network of electric air taxis. We're looking for talented, committed individuals to join our team as we push onward toward certifying the Joby aircraft, scaling our manufacturing, and launching our initial commercial service.

Overview

Joby Aviation is seeking a highly organized, passionate individual to join our quality assurance team. As part of this team, you will perform quality inspections on a variety of Titanium 3D printed parts for eVTOL electric aircraft, as well as various testing required. The inspection process is critical to the company's success and paves the way for production.

The Joby Aviation team is made up of extremely talented, hardworking, proactive, and hands-on individuals, operating in a very fast-paced and rewarding environment. We are looking to expand this team with like-minded individuals looking to make a mark in the transportation industry.

We are hiring for our Marina location.

Responsibilities
  • Perform Quality Inspection on Titanium 3D printed parts
  • Perform in-process inspection during the production process
  • Perform final inspection on dispositioned parts
  • Perform various testing methods (Mechanical; Metallography; Leak/Burst; Powder Chemistry)
  • Perform ad hoc part, process, and assembly inspections
  • Document and relay nonconformance information
  • Review and confirm the accuracy of First Article Inspection Reports in compliance with SAE AS9102 (as required)
  • Conduct Foreign Object Damage (FOD) inspections
Required

General Requirements

  • High-school diploma or GED plus three (3) years of on-the-job experience with a minimum (1) one year Quality Inspection experience
  • Proficient use of inspection tools or machinery (i.e., surface plate, thread gauges, pin gauges, micrometers, calipers, height master and height gauge, multi-meter, and other hand tools as needed)
  • Working knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), and understanding the x, y, z coordinate system
  • Ability to read and interpret quality control specifications, blueprint drawings, and engineering specifications, including mechanical and electrical symbols and conventions, key, critical, major, and minor characteristics
  • Must know basic quality terms, definitions, and measurement concepts.
  • Must be able to select the appropriate measuring tools and techniques
  • Must be able to identify/recognize inspection errors and nonconformances and initiate corrective action
  • Understanding different testing methods
  • Understand traceability (product, material, and calibration)
  • Ability to adapt to changing priorities and support multiple inspection activities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during a work shift while performing inspection activities.
  • Ability to safely wear and use required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety-toe footwear, eye protection, gloves, chemical protective equipment, and respiratory protection as required.
  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including Manufacturing, Engineering, and Quality personnel.
  • Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned to support business and operational objectives.
Physical & Visual Requirements
  • Must successfully pass a baseline visual acuity and color blindness examination prior to hire and pass regular re-examinations (with or without corrective lenses) to maintain employment in compliance with Quality Management System (QMS) requirements and AS9100 standards.
  • Must possess and maintain the ability to clearly distinguish fine details, read precision measurement equipment, and accurately identify color-coded materials.
  • Must be capable of safely lifting, carrying, and maneuvering up to 35 lbs unassisted.
  • Must be capable of standing, walking, bending, kneeling, crouching, and reaching for extended periods to thoroughly inspect complex aerospace structures.
  • Must possess the manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination necessary to precisely manipulate small measurement instruments and gauges.

Safety & Operation Compliance:

  • Must strictly adhere to all safety protocols and continuously wear job-required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including appropriate safety footwear, protective arm coverage (laceration avoidance), eye and head protection, and breathing apparatus/respirators as required.
Desired
  • General knowledge of 3D printing processes and/or metal 3D print processes
  • Ability to complete cross-training as required
  • Understanding basic statistical terms and techniques, how to plot data, and how to recognize out-of-control conditions
  • Ability to use inspection planning tools and perform a product audit; determine sample size for lots; pull random samples
  • Strong knowledge of basic mathematical operations and the ability to perform measurement conversions
  • ASQ Certified Quality Inspector Certificate
  • Open to the possibility of an alternate shift if required

Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $25-$35 per hour. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.

Additional Information

Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME