1

Additive Manufacturing Jobs in Kent, WA (NOW HIRING)

... additive manufacturing . Experience in the domain of design for manufacturing, assembly, or reliability . Experience with industry CAD software, such as NX or related programs.

Process Engineer V

Kirkland, WA · On-site

$144.67/hr

... additive manufacturing ? Experience in the domain of design for manufacturing, assembly, or reliability ? Experience with industry CAD software, such as NX or related programs

Showing results 41-60

Additive Manufacturing information

See Kent, WA salary details

$15

$28

$39

How much do additive manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for additive manufacturing in Kent, WA is $28.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.12 and $33.03 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.

Is additive manufacturing a good career?

Additive manufacturing is a growing field that involves designing and operating 3D printing equipment, often requiring skills in CAD software and knowledge of materials. Careers in this area can offer opportunities in industries such as aerospace, healthcare, and automotive, with roles ranging from technician to engineer. Job prospects depend on industry demand, technical skills, and certifications in additive manufacturing technologies.

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.

How to get into additive manufacturing?

To pursue a career in additive manufacturing, gaining a background in engineering, materials science, or manufacturing technology is essential. Developing skills in 3D modeling, CAD software, and understanding different 3D printing processes, along with relevant certifications, can improve job prospects. Entry-level roles often require hands-on experience with additive manufacturing equipment and knowledge of quality control standards.
What cities near Kent, WA are hiring for Additive Manufacturing jobs? Cities near Kent, WA with the most Additive Manufacturing job openings:
Infographic showing various Additive Manufacturing job openings in Kent, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,385 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer: Robotics Hardware Engineering, DFMA

Meta

Redmond, WA • On-site

$173K - $245K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Meta rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 242 rated software companies


Job description

At Meta, we're building the future of human connection and the technology that enables it. This means continuously inventing and developing technologies for the next generation of experiences. To continue our efforts in the path to AGI, and as we move closer to a future with intelligent robots and advanced AI models, we're hiring talent across a broad range of disciplines from robotics hardware to system software, machine perception, and artificial intelligence. These crucial projects and initiatives taken on by this team have never been done before, so you have a rare opportunity to help us create new ways people connect around the world. The Meta Robotics Hardware team is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer with a extensive experience in Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA). In this role, you will ensure that complex electromechanical systems - actuators, structural components, integrated sensor packages, and cladding - are designed from the ground up for efficient, repeatable, and future-scalable production. You'll work at the intersection of robot design, materials science, and manufacturing engineering to bring novel platforms from prototype to low volume production. This role will be part of a ME team responsible for concept development, analytical modeling, prototype design, first article build, fabrication, vendor management, and testing. Candidates should be comfortable working in a high ambiguity, fast paced environment where full system requirements are seldom known. This team is dedicated to building hardware that enables learning through data collection and system testing.
Responsibilities
Drive DFMA principles across the full mechanical design lifecycle of robot platforms- from concept through low-volume production
• Explore and prototype alternate manufacturing methods/processes (investment casting, die casting, molding, additive) as alternative for machining for larger structural components
• Work directly with design engineers to simplify part geometry, reduce fastener count, consolidate components, and minimize assembly steps without compromising performance
• Develop and maintain design guidelines, tolerance stacks, and assembly specifications tailored to robotic systems (actuators, linkages, structural chassis, cable routing, skin/shell enclosures)
• Perform manufacturing feasibility assessments on new designs; identify risk areas and propose design changes early in the development cycle
• Lead DFM reviews with internal teams and external manufacturing partners (CNC, sheet metal, injection molding, die casting, additive manufacturing)
• Define and optimize assembly sequences, fixturing strategies, and joining methods (threaded fasteners, adhesives, press fits, snap fits, welding)
• Create and maintain Bill of Materials (BOM) cost models; weight and cost reduction initiatives through material selection, process optimization, and part consolidation
• Collaborate closely with electrical, firmware, and controls engineers to ensure integrated system-level manufacturability
• Support supplier development - qualify processes, conduct site visits, and establish inspection criteria for critical-to-function features and interfaces
• Develop and document standard work instructions and assembly aids for prototype and production builds
• Collaboration: Work closely with a cross-functional team of engineers (EE, SW, Firmware) to deliver complete technical solutions
• Sustaining engineering: Troubleshooting root-cause of mechanical failures, implementing improved designs, testing effectiveness of change
Minimum Qualifications
• 7+ years experience in Mechanical Design Engineering with focused on DFMA
• BS degree in Mechanical Engineering
• Experience designing complex electro-mechanical, tightly integrated, and consumer level solutions
• Deep working knowledge and prior experience with component manufacturing processes: CNC machining, injection molding, die casting, sheet metal fabrication, and additive manufacturing
• Experience with SOLIDWORKS, Siemens NX or similar CAD tools
• Experience with rapid prototyping manufacturing processes and materials
• Experience managing time-sensitive projects through to completion while balancing evolving priorities and a broad range of stakeholders
• Experience in tolerance analysis, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T per ASME Y14.5)
• Experience in Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
• Experience with tolerance analysis tools and methodologies (RSS, Monte Carlo, worst-case)
• Familiarity with common joining and fastening methods and their trade-offs in robotic assemblies
• Strong communication skills with the ability to influence design decisions across multidisciplinary teams
• Experience with lightweighting strategies (topology optimization, lattice structures, composite materials)
• Background in high-mix/low-volume transitioning to mid-volume production environments
Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with plastic injection molding
• Knowledge of reliability engineering concepts (FMEA, HALT/HASS, life testing) as they relate to mechanical design
• Direct experience with robotic systems - BLDC motors, actuators, gearboxes, linkage mechanisms
• Experience driving and leading projects from cradle to grave
About Meta
Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology. People who choose to build their careers by building with us at Meta help shape a future that will take us beyond what digital connection makes possible today-beyond the constraints of screens, the limits of distance, and even the rules of physics.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health decisions, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, genetic information, political views or activity, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. You may view our Equal Employment Opportunity notice here.

What Meta employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom