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Additive Manufacturing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Engineer III - AAT

Danville, VA · On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

S. Navy's Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence (AM COE) located in Danville, VA. The mission of the AM COE is to operationalize additive manufacturing in the submarine industrial base and ...

Welding Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$34.75 - $48/hr

Develop, qualify, document, and support new additive manufacturing processes for the nuclear industry. * Develop, qualify, document, and support nondestructive and destructive weld testing and ...

Welding Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$34.75 - $48/hr

Develop, qualify, document, and support new additive manufacturing processes for the nuclear industry. * Develop, qualify, document, and support nondestructive and destructive weld testing and ...

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Additive Manufacturing information

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How much do additive manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for additive manufacturing in Virginia is $24.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.00 and $28.61 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Additive Manufacturing jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Additive Manufacturing jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Additive Manufacturing jobs in Virginia? For Additive Manufacturing jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Additive Manufacturing jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Additive Manufacturing jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Additive Manufacturing jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Additive Manufacturing job openings:
Infographic showing various Additive Manufacturing job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,445 per year, or $24.7 per hour.
Weld Process Engineer II Additive Manufacturing - AAT

Weld Process Engineer II Additive Manufacturing - AAT

Austal USA LLC

Danville, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Austal USA rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

247th of 430 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

REPORTS TO: Sr Weld Process Engineer Additive Manufacturing - AAT

SUPERVISES: N/A

Austal USA Advanced Technologies (AT) is a division of Austal USA, a global defense prime contractor and a designer and manufacturer of defense and commercial ships.

Austal USA AT works at the forefront to invent, mature, and implement advanced maritime technologies which enhance operational capacities and improve readiness of our defense systems. Austal USA AT operates a technology hub in Charlottesville VA which works to bring cutting-edge manufacturing technologies to scale and also oversees operation of the U.S. Navy's Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence (AM COE) located in Danville, VA. The mission of the AM COE is to operationalize additive manufacturing in the submarine industrial base and provide emergent request support to sustain our Nation's fleet.

AUTHORITIES / RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Welding Engineer II shall be capable of directing those operations associated with weldments and other types of applied joints that are completed in accordance with the appropriate contract documents, codes, and other standards to produce a satisfactory product. The welding engineer's activities begin before production welding, continue through the production process and end with the review of a satisfactory weld. Other responsibilities are as follows:

  • Selection of welding methods, development of welding parameters and qualifications.

  • Preparation, review, approval and release of written welding procedures in accordance with specifications and weld procedure qualifications.

  • Preparation of customer submittals to transmit information and plans, gain approvals, and authorize repairs when required.

  • Support for shop floor fabrication operations, including preparations for upcoming work, troubleshooting of welding issues and resolution, and generation of process improvement ideas.

  • Process efficiency studies to reduce schedule and cost.

  • Qualification, documentation, and maintenance of welding procedures.

  • Identification, design/procurement, and implementation of welding equipment and/or tool needs.

  • Review of quote packages in support of estimates for qualification manufacturing feasibility, and technical input as needed.

  • Evaluate and make recommendations regarding current and new weld assembly processing, tooling, and equipment for possible application to Austal USA processes.

  • Develop and implement work instructions for part fit-up, tack, weld, and repair requirements.

  • Recommend design changes to improve quality, reliability, and productivity of welding processes.

  • Develop and implement documents and procedures for validation of welding equipment and processes to meet or exceed customer specifications.

  • Evaluates new equipment, techniques and materials in welding field for possible application to Austal USA process.

  • Responsible for weld sequencing to control distortion.

  • Work with Accuracy Control to collect data to predict shrinkage in both ferrous and nonferrous metals.

  • Understanding of heat treatment applications.

  • Additive manufacturinggroup focused on parameter development.

  • Troubleshoot production welding issues related to welding defects.

  • Subject matter expert for all welding processes performed.

  • Perform visual weld inspections.

  • Other duties as assigned by Supervisor or Operations Manager.

QUALIFICATIONS / KNOWLEDGE / EXPERIENCE:

  • Bachelor's degree in Welding Engineering or Welding Engineering Technology is required. ABET Accredited Bachelor's degree in Welding Engineering or Welding Engineering Technology is preferred.

  • 7 years relevant welding engineer experience.

  • AWS Certified Welding Inspector certification is preferred.

  • Experience in a LEAN.

  • Strong leadership and communication skills.

  • Strong computer skills (Microsoft and AutoCAD).

  • Ability to work well with people at all levels.

  • Ability to read key plans and specifications.

  • Strong analysis and problem-solving capabilities.

  • Enjoys a "hands on" management environment.

  • Theoretical understanding of the gas tungsten arc, gas metal arc, shielded metal arc, submerged arc, and stud welding processes. Additional knowledge of other processes is also preferred.

  • Theoretical understanding of the welding of ferrous and non-ferrous base metals. This understanding includes but is not limited to what can occur during welding and the proper selection of filler metals.

  • Theoretical understanding of nondestructive testing methods for welds.

TOOLS:

  • Personal computing and other electronic communication devices and software programs. Basic hand tools, sanders, grinders, overhead cranes, forklift, applicable machinery components, etc.

DIRECTION EXERCISED:

  • Full discretionary authority in auditing/correcting welding.

DIRECTION TAKEN BY:

  • Operations Manager

  • Sr. Welding Process Engineer

  • Other delegates as assigned

DISCRETION EXERCISED:

  • Primary decision maker with respect to day-to-day weld audits.

  • Provides input into manufacturing strategic plan.

LIAISES WITH:

  • Departments including but not limited to Operations, Production, Engineering, Program Management, Supply Chain, Quality and government personnel.

ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES:

  • Candidates must meet the following employment eligibility guidelines to be considered for employment with Austal USA:

    • 18 years of age or older at time of application

    • Able to provide proof of US Person Status.

    • The ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.

    • No felony convictions of Theft/Deception or Violent crimes within seven years from disposition date.

    • No felony convictions of Drug crimes within three years from disposition date.

    • Willing to submit to a drug screen.

    • Willing to submit to a background check.

Equal Employment Commitment

Any qualified individual with a disability who is having difficulty in completing an application because of incompatible technology or other disability-related application issues may contact us at the following phone number for assistance: 251-445-1932.

Austal's commitment to equal employment opportunity applies at all levels of employment, in all job titles, including the executive level, and to all employment actions, including but not limited to decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, training, and promotion.


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