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Additive Manufacturing Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Akima

KY · On-site

$158K/yr

UAS, build and program FPV Group 1 UAS, additive manufacturing, range extension via relay and mothership operations, weaponeering (arming UxS), and direct-action integration. * Assist in the planning ...

Talis Group, Inc.

Manufacturing Engineer

Louisville, KY · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Talis Group's manufacturing client is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to lead process improvements, capital projects, and Lean initiatives in a collaborative, people-first environment. If you enjoy ...

Brady Corporation

Manufacturing Engineer

Louisville, KY · On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for manufacturing processes and their improvement, resolution of complex manufacturing process issues, and providing leadership and guidance to technicians ...

BRADY CORPORATION

Manufacturing Engineer

Louisville, KY

$70K - $90K/yr

The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for manufacturing processes and their improvement, resolution of complex manufacturing process issues, and providing leadership and guidance to technicians ...

Brady Worldwide, Inc.

Manufacturing Engineer

Louisville, KY

$67K - $87K/yr

The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for manufacturing processes and their improvement, resolution of complex manufacturing process issues, and providing leadership and guidance to technicians ...

Brady

Manufacturing Engineer

Louisville, KY · On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for manufacturing processes and their improvement, resolution of complex manufacturing process issues, and providing leadership and guidance to technicians ...

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How much do additive manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for additive manufacturing in Kentucky is $21.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $25.05 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 Kentucky? The most popular types of Additive Manufacturing jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Additive Manufacturing jobs in Kentucky? For Additive Manufacturing jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Additive Manufacturing jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Additive Manufacturing jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Additive Manufacturing jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Additive Manufacturing job openings:
Additive Manufacturing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Additive Manufacturing job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, 1% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,068 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Postdoctoral Scholar (ISM)

University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

University Of Kentucky rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

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Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Job Title
Postdoctoral Scholar (ISM)
Requisition Number
DU10317
Department Name
8H600:Institute for Sustainable Manufacturing
Work Location
Lexington, KY
Salary Range
commensurate with abilities and experience
Type of Position
Other
Position Time Status
Full-Time
Required Education
PhD in Engineering
Required Related Experience
see Skills / Knowledge / Abilities
Required License/Registration/Certification
n/a
Physical Requirements
Some standing or walking. Sitting at computer workstation for extended periods. Repetitive motion. Lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects up to 50 lbs.
Shift
Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm (40 hours/week)
Job Summary
The postdoctoral researcher will assist the faculty PI and Co-PIs in advancing materials and manufacturing processes in collaboration with research partners at DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory (ARL) and industry. The position focuses on additive manufacturing processes, including solid-state and fusion-based methods such as Additive Friction Stir Deposition (AFSD), cold spray, and laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), with an emphasis on establishing process-structure-property relationships through integrated experimental and modeling approaches.
The successful candidate will design and conduct experiments, develop and implement analytical and numerical modeling approaches, and perform microstructural characterization to evaluate process-structure relationships in additively manufactured materials. Work will also include analysis of thermal and thermo-mechanical behavior, plastic deformation, and defect formation, as well as evaluation of process outcomes such as residual stress and distortion, particularly in large-format applications.
Additional responsibilities include mentoring graduate students, collaborating with research partners, and disseminating results through peer-reviewed journal publications and presentations at national and international conferences. Candidates will also contribute to research proposal development and laboratory research activities.
Funding will be renewed yearly, contingent upon performance and funding availability.
Employment may be subject to U.S. export control regulations.
Skills / Knowledge / Abilities
Strong publication record which reflects some combination of the following:
  • Hands on experience with AM technologies, particularly AFSD, cold spray, and LPBF
  • Strong background in materials science, including characterization techniques such as SEM, TEM, FIB, XRD, nano-indentation, etc.
  • Experience with analytical/numerical thermal, thermo-mechanical, plastic deformation, and/or multi-physics modeling of manufacturing processes
  • Experience modeling AM microstructure evolution, phase transformations, or defect generation
  • Experience with multi-scale modeling across spatial and temporal domains, including residual stress and distortion in large-format structures
  • Experience with CAD/CAM, MATLAB, G-Code
  • Knowledge and/or experience with solid-state manufacturing processes, including friction stir processing and welding
  • Knowledge and/or experience with subtractive manufacturing or heat treatment processes
  • Familiarity with physics-informed or data-driven (AI/ML) manufacturing approaches
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively in collaborative research environments

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?
No
Preferred Education/Experience
Deadline to Apply
09/30/2026
Our University Community
We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

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About University of Kentucky

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The University of Kentucky (UK), the state's flagship university, was founded in 1865 and its beautiful, sprawling campus, nestled in downtown Lexington, now covers over 900 acres and is home to more than 30,000 students and approximately 13,500 employees. The trees and beautifully manicured greenspaces are a source of pride for the university and combine to create an impressive oasis amidst the busy cityscape that surrounds it.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Lexington, KY, US

Year founded

1865

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