1

Additive Manufacturing Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Additive Manufacturing information

See Washington salary details

$15

$28

$39

How much do additive manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for additive manufacturing in Washington is $28.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.88 and $32.69 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 Washington? The most popular types of Additive Manufacturing jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Additive Manufacturing jobs in Washington? For Additive Manufacturing jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Additive Manufacturing jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Additive Manufacturing job openings:
Infographic showing various Additive Manufacturing job openings in Washington 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 $58,770 per year, or $28.3 per hour.
Additive Manufacturing Scientist

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 59 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you passionate about leading teams inventing new technologies to track materials synthesis to tackle unique problems?
Are you motivated to chart a course for additive manufacturing research that addresses our nation's most pressing challenges?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!
We are seeking an Additive Manufacturing Scientist to work closely with APL's team of experts to the shape and implement the vision and strategy for APL's AM research. Our team conducts groundbreaking AM research ranging from multiscale modeling and simulation, to performing the underlying science to enable qualification and certification, to development of new sensing and visualization processes to monitor and detect attributes of the AM process and visualize in 3D to enable next generation designs for space, air, land and sea-based applications.
As our government sponsors continue to present exciting and urgent national challenges, you will drive idea generation and solution development via research vision, leveraging APL's entire portfolio of innovative research. The team needs a research visionary and champion who can drive toward collaborative solutions for cross-cutting research challenges, partnering with a multidisciplinary team. At APL, we strive to foster a collaborative environment with world-class expertise that achieves groundbreaking impact. Our APL team values integrity and innovative ideas that will ensure our nation's preeminence in the 21st century.
As an Additive Manufacturing Scientist you will...
  • Perform pioneering materials and process characterization research driven by mission needs for qualified hardware leveraging state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment.
  • Integrate with the APL's team to increase the impact of an already successful additive manufacturing programs centered on materials discovery, in-situ sensing, multiscale modeling, and qualification science.
  • Contribute to the design and fabrication of operational additively manufactured prototypes which have global impact.
  • Work with APL program managers to identify critical national challenges that can be solved with additive manufacturing.
  • Push the boundaries of manufacturing science to unlock new manufacturing processes which will have a lasting impact on our nation.
  • Present technical work internally and externally. You will communicate daily with project teams and leadership to support programmatic needs.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Possess a M.S Degree in Mechanical and or Electrical Engineering, Materials characterization, data science, or a related field.
  • Have 5+ years of demonstrated experience related to manufacturing research, focusing on additive manufacturing.
  • Understand the unique capabilities of additive processing, including complex material properties, stemming from process defects, microstructure and thermodynamic solidification.
  • Experience in generating and interpreting data utilized to enable qualifying AM produced hardware.
  • Have demonstrated experience leading a team to achieve impactful results.
  • Are an excellent communicator, in written and oral formats, and for a variety of audience types including high-level government sponsors.
  • Demonstrated history of authoring proposals and high impact publications.
  • Are willing and able to perform work in a laboratory setting and travel for field testing, sponsor visits, conference attendance, and presentations.
  • Are able to obtain a Secret level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Possess a P.h.D Degree in Mechanical and or Electrical Engineering, Materials characterization, data science, or a related field
  • Demonstrate experience fielding additively manufactured components using science-based qualification.
  • Have experience developing process models by manipulating key parameters such as power, speed and hatch spacing.
  • Have the capability to reconstruct 3D data including in-situ and post manufacturing data into a 3D format for data processing and visualization.
  • Have experience with machine learning and have demonstrated the ability to make statistical correlations with complex data sets.
  • Have experience with novel in-situ monitoring of additive processes with the ability to customize sensors to improve signal to noise or registration capability.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$290,000 Annually

What Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom