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Additive Manufacturing Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Engineer - A&D

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$74.70K - $96.20K/yr

Knowledge of CNC machining, additive manufacturing, assembly, testing, and production processes. * Familiarity with AS9100, ITAR, NADCAP, and other industry compliance standards. * Proficiency with ...

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Additive Manufacturing information

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$15

$28

$39

How much do additive manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 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 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 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 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 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 job categories do people searching Additive Manufacturing jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Additive Manufacturing jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Additive Manufacturing jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Additive Manufacturing job openings:
Metal Additive Manufacturing Engineer

$72.60K - $93.50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 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 56 rated research


Job description

Description
Do you have a passion for additive manufacturing (AM)?
Do you have a Maker's attitude for modifying 3D printers to do outstanding things and the persistence and attention to detail to get AM parts through aerospace qualifications?
Do you love to push the bounds of science and technology while working to take on some of the most challenging problems facing our Nation?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.
We are seeking a Metal Additive Manufacturing Engineer to help us develop new materials and methods and mature these innovative capabilities to produce qualified hardware. You will be a vital member of APL's Additive Manufacturing Center (AMC), within the Research and Exploratory Development Department. The AMC is tasked with leading the implementation of innovative AM materials and processes to meet the future needs of APL staff and our Government sponsors. The AMC also supports APL with specialized prototyping and low-volume production services. As a member of our team, you'll build hardware that explores other planets and interstellar space through various NASA missions as well as building critical prototype hardware for our nation's national security and national health interests. In addition, we provide manufacturing expertise as part of our trusted agent role for the US government.
As a Metal Additive Manufacturing Engineer you will:
  • Provide engineering support for the operation of the metal AM printers at APL.

  • Utilize your fundamental understanding of how the 3D printers work to develop new materials, optimize material properties for unique applications, and develop innovative processes that enable entirely new capabilities in AM.

  • Complete build preparation tasks with proficiency in parametric CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CREO, etc.), and .stl file editing and build preparation software (e.g., Materialise Magics, EOS Print, QuantAM, etc.).

  • Develop unique additive-enabled designs using sophisticated software for lattice generation and topology optimization.

  • Utilize AM process simulation tools to identify part geometry at risk for distortion and/or build failure and implement improvements in build orientation and support structure design to minimize build risk.

  • Implement Quality Control measures in research and functional prototyping environment.

  • Detail AM procedures and implement traceability measures for projects requiring qualification.

  • Serve as a domain expert within APL to raise awareness of additive manufacturing activities and vision at APL.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a BS degree or higher in a related engineering or science field.

  • 2+ years experience with Metal Additive Manufacturing engineering.

  • Have experience running metal AM machines (selective laser melting or directed energy deposition) in an industrial setting.

  • Have a high level of proficiency with at least two of the following software tools: parametric CAD (e.g., SolidWorks, CREO, NX), .stl editing software (e.g., Magics, Netfabb, Meshmixer), or build preparation software (e.g., EOSPrint, QuantAM).

  • Experience carrying out design of experiments using statistical software such as JMP, DesignExpert, or minitab.

  • Technical writing experience authoring and/or being a primary contributor to technical proposal and reports.

  • Are able to obtain 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...
  • Have experience producing qualified hardware using metal AM, such as following the NASA standard for additive manufacturing spaceflight hardware.

  • Have experience designing additive enabled parts using sophisticated lattice generation and topology optimization software tools such as nTopology, Ansys, and Dessault Systems.

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 http://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 Accommodations@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
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually