1

Additive Manufacturing Jobs in Wichita, KS (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

$72K - $92K/yr

AAA USA is actively hiring experienced Manufacturing Engineers to support aerospace, defense, transportation, industrial, and advanced manufacturing programs nationwide. We are seeking hands-on ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

$72K - $92K/yr

AAA USA is actively hiring experienced Manufacturing Engineers to support aerospace, defense, transportation, industrial, and advanced manufacturing programs nationwide. We are seeking hands-on ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

$72K - $92K/yr

Manufacturing Engineer AAA United States, Inc. has partnered with a company in Wichita, Kansas that is one of the world's largest manufacturers of aerostructures for commercial airplanes, defense ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

$72K - $92K/yr

Manufacturing Engineer AAA United States, Inc. has partnered with a company in Wichita, Kansas that is one of the world's largest manufacturers of aerostructures for commercial airplanes, defense ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, and optimizing manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure product quality. Essential Job Functions:

Manufacturing Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

- Manufacturing Engineer Manufacturing Engineer to support aerospace production non-conformance, shop floor issues, aircraft parts manufacturing, repair implementation, and coordination with ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Manufacturing Engineer The Manufacturing Engineer develops, improves, and optimizes manufacturing processes to ensure efficient production, high quality standards, and on-time delivery. This role ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Manufacturing Engineer The Manufacturing Engineer develops, improves, and optimizes manufacturing processes to ensure efficient production, high quality standards, and on-time delivery. This role ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, and optimizing manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure product quality. Essential Job Functions:

Manufacturing Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, and optimizing manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure product quality. Essential Job Functions:

next page

Showing results 1-20

Additive Manufacturing information

See Wichita, KS salary details

$12

$22

$30

How much do additive manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for additive manufacturing in Wichita, KS is $22.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $25.82 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Additive Manufacturing jobs in Wichita, KS?

The most popular types of Additive Manufacturing jobs in Wichita, KS are:

Infographic showing various Additive Manufacturing job openings in Wichita, KS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,435 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Advanced Metals and Fabrication Research Engineer

Spirit AeroSystems

Wichita, KS • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago


Spirit AeroSystems rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Overview
This role is at Boeing Wichita, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company, supporting both Boeing Wichita's Commercial and Defense Business Units. Boeing Wichita Commercial designs and builds commercial aerostructures, including for Boeing Commercial Airplanes, one of Boeing's three business units and the premier manufacturer of commercial jetliners for decades. Boeing Wichita Commercial's core products include fuselages, pylons, nacelles and wing components, with a focus on innovative composite and aluminum manufacturing solutions. Boeing Wichita Defense supports a wide variety of defense focused projects for numerous defense customers, with an emphasis on aerostructures.
The Advanced Metals Research & Technology team is looking for a Metals and Fabrication Research Engineer with fabrication and research experience to support multiple commercial and defense research and development projects. In this role you will work with engineering teams, materials & process teams, and program teams, to collaboratively guide technical solutions from the lab to the factory floor.
Responsibilities
Position Responsibilities:
  • Apply knowledge of aerospace mechanical/structural component fabrication technologies to support metallic fabrication research and development strategies and plans
  • Industrialize and scale additive metal manufacturing processes for new aerostructure applications, with a focus on high temperature metal alloys
  • Define engineering requirements, qualification plans, and compliance approaches up front for design for metal additive manufacturing and advance welding technologies
  • Support multi-functional teams in the above efforts, coordinate the identification and capture of cost and time savings, and assist in strategic technology planning.
  • Develop, analyze, and apply material properties and design allowables, processing methods, and quality engineering specifications and standards to metallic fabrication projects.
  • Review engineering drawings and documents for part conformance and assist in resolving part failure analysis for fabrication, assembly and in service problems.
  • Implement concepts and designs, analyze prototype systems, equipment, and processes, and verify compliance with customer requirements, company policy, procedures and guidelines, and governmental regulations.
  • Assist with trade studies for design and/or process alternatives

Qualifications
Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):
  • Bachelor's degree from an ABET accredited program in Engineering
  • 2 to 4 years of related experience with automation and fabrication technology
  • Knowledge and experience with metal additive technology and welding technology (electron beam, laser bean, friction stir, etc)
  • 2 to 4 years of related experience in a manufacturing environment
  • Familiarity with fabrication and machining with high temperature metal alloys
  • Experience with CATIA or other equivalent CAD programs
  • Engineering and technical drawing interpretation knowledge
  • Strong communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Experience utilizing various Microsoft Office Suite applications, such as Office 365 and Microsoft Project, Power Point, Excel, Word, Teams and Visio

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):
  • Ability to obtain a US Security Clearance
  • Knowledge of aerospace manufacturing processes, procedures and specifications
  • Experience in cross-functional project management
  • Experience with hard metal machining, high temperature alloys
  • Experience using 3D modeling software slicing software for additive manufacturing
  • Knowledge and experience with metal additive manufacturing technologies including laser powder bed fusion and various direct energy deposition processes
  • Understanding of metallurgical terminology and concepts
  • Experience with Catia V5 highly preferred
  • Experience working with a multi-functional team on technical manufacturing projects
  • Experience working in a research and development environment
  • Ability to take initiative and seek creative metallic fabrication solutions

Union:
This is a union-represented position.
Drug Free Workplace:
We are a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.
Pay & Benefits:
We strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
We also provide eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Summary Pay Range: $75,550 - $115,850
Kansas Tax Credit: Join Spirit AeroSystems' Kansas team and you may be eligible for a $5,000 state of Kansas Aviation tax credit for up to five years. Click here for more information on the tax credit.

What Spirit AeroSystems employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom