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Additive Manufacturing information

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$14

$26

$36

How much do additive manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for additive manufacturing in Colorado is $26.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.25 and $30.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Additive Manufacturing vs CNC Machinist?

AspectAdditive ManufacturingCNC Machinist
CredentialsTypically requires technical training or certification in 3D printing technologiesRequires machining certifications or technical training in CNC operations
Work EnvironmentWorks in labs or manufacturing facilities with 3D printers and related equipmentWorks in machine shops or manufacturing plants operating CNC machines
Industry UsageUsed in prototyping, custom parts, and complex geometriesUsed for precision manufacturing of metal and plastic parts
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for manufacturing processes involving digital fabricationCompared for traditional subtractive manufacturing skills

While both roles are involved in manufacturing, Additive Manufacturing focuses on building parts layer-by-layer using 3D printing technologies, whereas CNC Machinists operate subtractive machines to carve parts from raw materials. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the manufacturing industry.

What skills do you need for additive manufacturing?

Additive manufacturing professionals need strong technical skills in CAD software, 3D modeling, and familiarity with various 3D printing technologies such as FDM, SLA, or SLS. Knowledge of materials science, precision measurement, and post-processing techniques is also important, along with problem-solving abilities and attention to detail. Certifications in additive manufacturing or related fields can enhance job prospects.

Is additive manufacturing a good career?

Additive manufacturing is a growing field that involves designing and operating 3D printing equipment, often requiring skills in engineering, materials science, and computer-aided design. Careers in this area can offer opportunities in industries such as aerospace, healthcare, and automotive, with roles typically requiring technical training or certifications. The industry is expected to expand as technology advances, making it a viable career choice for those interested in innovative manufacturing processes.

How much do additive manufacturing technicians make?

Additive manufacturing technicians typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled technicians familiar with 3D printing technologies and CAD software may earn higher wages, especially in advanced manufacturing environments.

What Is Additive Manufacturing?

Additive manufacturing (AM) is the process of creating products by adding material using one or more techniques. This is the opposite of subtractive manufacturing, which produces products by removing material. Many products are produced using a combination of these two techniques. To manufacture a plastic shape, you may use additive manufacturing to layer plastic materials then use subtractive manufacturing to cut and shape the plastic. In recent years, AM has started to focus on advanced techniques like 3D printing, where complex products are created layer by layer, using one or more materials. The main job in AM is that of an additive manufacturing engineer, although rapid prototyping may utilize this process to create a small model of a potential product.

What is additive manufacturing?

Additive manufacturing, often referred to as 3D printing, is a process of creating objects by adding material layer by layer, based on a digital model. Unlike traditional manufacturing methods that remove material from a solid block, additive manufacturing builds products directly from raw materials such as plastics, metals, or composites. This technology enables complex designs, rapid prototyping, and customization that would be difficult or impossible with conventional manufacturing processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Additive Manufacturing, and why are they important?

To excel in Additive Manufacturing, a solid understanding of engineering principles, 3D modeling, and materials science is typically required, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, 3D printers, and quality assurance systems, as well as certifications like SME Additive Manufacturing Certification, is highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help professionals innovate and collaborate in dynamic production environments. These competencies are essential for ensuring precision, efficiency, and the successful implementation of advanced manufacturing technologies.

What are some typical challenges faced in an Additive Manufacturing role, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Additive Manufacturing often encounter challenges such as ensuring part quality, optimizing print parameters, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions. Working closely with engineering teams and using advanced simulation software can help address issues related to design for additive processes. Regular calibration of machinery and staying updated on the latest material advancements are also key strategies for overcoming common hurdles. Collaboration and ongoing training play a significant role in maintaining production efficiency and quality standards.

What are the highest paying jobs in manufacturing?

In additive manufacturing, high-paying roles include additive manufacturing engineers, senior process engineers, and manufacturing managers, often requiring specialized skills in 3D printing technologies, CAD software, and quality control. These positions typically offer higher salaries due to technical expertise, experience, and leadership responsibilities within advanced manufacturing environments.
More about Additive Manufacturing jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Additive Manufacturing jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Additive Manufacturing jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Additive Manufacturing jobs in Colorado? For Additive Manufacturing jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Additive Manufacturing jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Additive Manufacturing jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Additive Manufacturing jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Additive Manufacturing job openings:
Additive Manufacturing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Additive Manufacturing job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, 1% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,563 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Additive Manufacturing Engineer Associate

Additive Manufacturing Engineer Associate

Big Metal Additive

Denver, CO

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

About * Big Metal Additive *:

Big Metal Additive (BMA) is an advanced manufacturing company serving aerospace, defense, energy, and other industries. BMA has the largest and most sophisticated hybrid metal additive manufacturing capability in the industry. We model, analyze and program using the finest CAD/CAM software package available. Our machines combine MIG welding and CNC machining to produce finished products for customers ranging from testable prototypes to production components. Every day our people work at the cutting edge of manufacturing, implementing the highest standards of quality manufacturing.

We make amazing parts. We produce submarine components, torpedo shells, munitions, space structural parts and more. We at the front of our industry in achieving customer quality acceptance for wire arc DED products. Our end-use customers are Navy, NASA, Army, Air Force, and Space Force. We are scaling production, adding machines and bringing new parts into our digital inventory. With AS9100 quality certification, NIST 800-171 CMMC compliant System Security Plan, export control compliance and an enterprise management system created for production of additive manufactured parts from a digital inventory and model-based enterprise practices; BMA is growing to a factory of 100 machines to support production demand.

About an * Additive Engineer *:

An Additive Engineer works at the foundational digital level of additive manufacturing; examining CAD models, identifying opportunities for design adjustments, determining CAM toolpaths and build parameters. Toolpaths are created for additive deposition and also machining operations. New parts can require development efforts. An Additive Engineer works closely with Manufacturing Engineers/Technicians (who operate machines) so that toolpaths result in production to meet customer requirements. Additive Engineers assemble a Technical Data Package to meet requirements, drawing call-outs and customer expectations. Attention to BMA Quality procedures is essential.

Key information:

  • Toolpaths and NC programs must be created for every product and every machine
  • Machines are used to produce metal products using hybrid additive manufacturing
    • Machines perform metal deposition using MIG welding
    • Machines perform multi-axis CNC cutting using a machining spindle
  • Products include prototypes, test articles, build-to-print customer parts and production

Job Responsibilities:

The Additive Engineer Associate (AE Associate) shall perform CAD model analyses, design adjustments, determination of toolpaths/build parameters and work with the manufacturing team to produce parts. The AE Associate shall use engineering knowledge, project management tools, and business acumen to achieve daily project performance and weekly status reporting. This position is full-time, first-shift with working days Sun/Mon/Tue/Fri/Sat -- (days off Wed/Thur) and will report to the Production Manager.

  • Engineering focused role
    • 50% CAD/CAM
    • 30% Engineering engagement with manufacturing team and machines
    • 20% MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook)
  • Performing CAD model analysis/adjustment in NX CAD environment
    • Incorporate drawing, blueprint specifications
  • Performing CAM toolpath strategy and development in NX CAM
    • Understand GD&T and apply knowledge to toolpaths
  • Selection of build parameters using BMA libraries and consulting with other engineers
  • Executing engineering/production projects
    • Following directions to achieve project performance
  • Accurate documentation of projects, operations, process, and records
  • Inspection/Test planning, development and compliance to requirements
  • Vendor engagement/management for post processing operations
  • Regular briefings to management on project status, production issues and technical topics
  • Strong commitment to BMA Quality Management System
  • Create high quality, technical presentations, reports and customer updates

Requirements:

  • Must be a US citizen and pass background check
  • BS degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
  • 2 years’ experience:
    • CNC machining, fixturing, tooling selection and cutting parameters
    • CAD solid and surface modelling
  • Experience with:
    • Working in quality manufacturing environment (ISO 9001/AS9100)
    • Siemens NX CAM (+ multi-axis environment)
    • CAE (finite element analysis)
    • Working with manufacturing suppliers, vendors and service providers
  • Additional candidate advantages
    • Proficiency with hand tools
    • Good mechanical aptitude

Benefits:

  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Paid time off
  • Health, dental and vision insurance premiums covered 100%
  • You will see, work with, and produce more 'high-speed' products at BMA than anywhere else

Apply