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3D Printing Jobs in Rutherfordton, NC (NOW HIRING)

Proficient with 2D and 3D CAD software Preferred Qualifications/Experience * Exposure to lean manufacturing, six sigma, and 5S practices. * Proficient with data analysis, statistics, and applied ...

Proficient with 2D and 3D CAD software Preferred Qualifications/Experience * Exposure to lean manufacturing, six sigma, and 5S practices. * Proficient with data analysis, statistics, and applied ...

Manufacturing Engineer Co-Op

Shelby, NC · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Basic 2D (AutoCAD) and/or 3D CAD (PTC Cero, SolidWorks) experience, preferred. * Intermediate Math skills * Communication skills (Develop written communications requiring grammar skills; interact ...

3D Printing information

See Rutherfordton, NC salary details

$43.3K

$88.6K

$131.7K

How much do 3d printing jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d printing in Rutherfordton, NC is $88,570.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is 3D printing?

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process of creating three-dimensional objects from a digital file by layering materials such as plastic, metal, or resin. The printer reads a digital model and deposits material layer by layer until the final object is formed. This technology is used in various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, automotive, and education, for rapid prototyping and production. 3D printing offers advantages like customization, reduced waste, and the ability to create complex shapes that are difficult to achieve with traditional methods.

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

To thrive as a 3D Printing Specialist, you need a strong background in CAD design, materials science, and additive manufacturing processes, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with 3D printing hardware, slicing software, and prototyping tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and Cura is typically required, and certifications such as Additive Manufacturing Technician can be beneficial. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for troubleshooting issues and collaborating with design and engineering teams. These skills ensure high-quality, innovative outputs and efficient workflows in fast-evolving manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges faced in a 3D printing technician role, and how can they be addressed?

3D Printing technicians often encounter challenges such as printer calibration issues, material inconsistencies, and unexpected print failures. Addressing these requires a solid understanding of machine maintenance, material properties, and troubleshooting skills. Collaborating closely with design engineers and quality control teams helps ensure that prototypes meet specifications and deadlines. Staying up-to-date with evolving printer technologies and regularly participating in team problem-solving sessions can also help technicians overcome these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between 3D Printing vs 3D Modeler?

Aspect3D Printing3D Modeler
Primary FocusCreating physical objects from digital modelsDesigning digital 3D models for various purposes
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of 3D printers, CAD software, material propertiesProficiency in 3D modeling software, artistic skills
Work EnvironmentManufacturing labs, workshops, fabrication facilitiesDesign studios, digital labs, creative agencies
Industry UsagePrototyping, manufacturing, custom fabricationAnimation, gaming, product design, architecture

While 3D Printing involves transforming digital models into physical objects, 3D Modelers focus on creating those digital designs. Both roles often collaborate but require different skill sets and work environments. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus within the 3D industry.

Can 3D printing be a side hustle?

3D printing can be a viable side hustle for individuals with access to a 3D printer and skills in design and modeling. Many entrepreneurs create custom products, prototypes, or art pieces to sell online or locally, often working flexible hours outside of a primary job. Success depends on market demand, quality, and marketing efforts.

Can I make a career out of 3D printing?

3D printing offers career opportunities in fields such as design, manufacturing, and prototyping, often requiring skills in CAD software, knowledge of 3D printers, and technical troubleshooting. Professionals may work in industries like aerospace, healthcare, or automotive, with roles including technician, designer, or engineer. Building a career typically involves gaining experience, certifications, and staying updated on new printing technologies.

How much money can you make doing 3D printing?

Salaries for 3D printing professionals vary based on experience, skills, and industry, but entry-level positions typically start around $30,000 to $50,000 annually. Skilled operators or designers with advanced knowledge of 3D modeling and printing technology can earn $60,000 or more per year, especially in specialized fields like aerospace or medical manufacturing.

Is there a demand for 3D printing?

The demand for 3D printing professionals is growing as industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, aerospace, and automotive increasingly adopt additive manufacturing technologies. Skills in CAD design, material knowledge, and proficiency with 3D printers are highly valued, and job opportunities are expanding with advancements in the field.

What cities near Rutherfordton, NC are hiring for 3D Printing jobs?

Cities near Rutherfordton, NC with the most 3D Printing job openings:

Infographic showing various 3D Printing job openings in Rutherfordton, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 2% Temporary, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,570 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Summer 2027 Internships: ALL FIELDS (Spartanburg, SC)

Spartanburg, SC

Michelin North America
10K+ employees

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Full-time, Temporary, Internship

Posted 11 days ago


Michelin North America rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 123 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Summer 2027 Internships: ALL FIELDS (Spartanburg, SC)

Build a Career That Matters with One of the World’s Most Respected Employers!

Summer 2027 Internships: ALL FIELDS (Spartanburg, SC)

THE OPPORTUNITY

Michelin has openings for Summer 2027 Internships in Chemical, Mechanical, Industrial, Computer Science, and Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics. This opportunity is located at our Spartanburg, South Carolina location, within driving distance to the greater Greenville, SC area. Michelin’s purpose is to support everyone’s right to move freely to find their better way forward. If respect for people, teamwork and trust are some values you live by you should consider joining us, the Worldwide leader in Tires!

Michelin, the leading mobility company, is working with tires, around tires and beyond tires to enable Motion for Life . Dedicated to enhancing its clients’ mobility and sustainability, Michelin designs and distributes the most suitable tires, services and solutions for its customers’ needs. Michelin provides digital services, maps and guides to help enrich trips and travels and make them unique experiences. Bringing its expertise to new markets, the company is investing in high-technology materials, 3D printing and hydrogen, to serve a wide variety of industries - from aerospace to biotech.

Get in the driver’s seat and be on your way to a meaningful professional journey!

WHAT WILL YOU DO

  • Reduce defect rates in tire production. In order to improve overall quality the selected intern will complete the following:
  • Familiarize oneself with the tire manufacturing process
  • Analyze the the correlation between tire defects and upstream variables
  • Develop, evaluate and propose solutions based cost, effectiveness, and reliability
  • Facilitate the implementation of the solutions and validate the achieved gain

WHAT WILL YOU BRING

  • A willingness to work in an industrial plant environment (Monday-Friday on day shift).
  • Major in Chemical, Mechanical, Industrial, Computer, Electrical, Environmental Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Hard Sciences and/or Materials.
  • The ability to interact in a professional manner with external partners, suppliers, customers, and colleagues.
  • Success in working with other people or team to meet a common objective.
  • Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office® Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and ability to learn other software systems.
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
  • Currently enrolled full time at an accredited four-year college or university.
  • US citizen, permanent resident or otherwise authorized to work for Michelin on an ongoing, indefinite basis. This position is not available for immigration sponsorship.

Ready to Shape the Future of Innovation?

Michelin is building a world-leading manufacturer of life-changing composites and experiences. Pioneering engineered materials for more than 130 years, Michelin is uniquely positioned to make decisive contributions to human progress and a more sustainable world. Drawing on its deep know-how in polymer composite materials, Michelin is constantly innovating to manufacture high-quality tires and components for critical applications in demanding fields as varied as mobility, construction, aeronautics, low-carbon energies and healthcare.

The care placed in its products and deep customer knowledge inspire Michelin to offer the finest experiences. This spans from providing data- and AI-based connected solutions for professional fleets to recommending outstanding restaurants and hotels curated by the MICHELIN Guide.

Why Michelin?

  • Career Growth : Personalized development plans, mentorship, and cross-functional opportunities. Unique career paths and opportunities for advancement.
  • Inclusive Culture : Thrive in a diverse, supportive environment where your competencies, contributions and behaviors are recognized. Option to join one of our Connected Communities.
  • Innovation-Driven : Work on projects that matter-from sustainable materials to digital transformation.
  • Community Impact : Be part of a company that does what's right. We use sustainable business practices while balancing the needs of our customers and communities.

Michelin provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors. Consistent with these obligations, Michelin also provides reasonable accommodations to employees and applicants with disabilities and for sincerely held religious beliefs. If you need accommodation for any part of the employment process because of a disability, please contact us at accommodations@michelin.com .

This position is not available for immigration sponsorship.

We build the future with people like you. Begin your career with Michelin today!


What Michelin North America employees say

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About Michelin North America

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Michelin North America, based in Greenville, South Carolina, US, is a significant player in the automotive industry with a celebrated history dating back to 1907. The subsidiary of the France-based Michelin Group, its official website can be found at michelinman.com. The company's core product offerings span from car tires, truck tires, motorcycle tires, bicycle tires, to aviation and even agricultural tires. Beyond this, they also produce travel assistance services and solutions to enhance mobility. Upholding the Michelin Group's mission, Michelin North America is dedicated to enhancing its clients' mobility, sustainably; designing and distributing tires and services that support all kinds of transportation needs.

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Greenville, SC, US

Year founded

1950