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Additive Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apple is seeking a motivated and experienced metal additive 3D printing specialist to join this team, where extensive innovation and collaboration among team members drive towards exceptional ...

The Senior Additive Manufacturing Engineer will own the technical execution, optimization, and continuous improvement of Velo3D's Rapid Production Solutions (RPS) metal additive manufacturing ...

The Senior Additive Manufacturing Engineer will own the technical execution, optimization, and continuous improvement of Velo3D's Rapid Production Solutions (RPS) metal additive manufacturing ...

The Senior Additive Manufacturing Engineer will own the technical execution, optimization, and continuous improvement of Velo3D's Rapid Production Solutions (RPS) metal additive manufacturing ...

Showing results 41-60

Additive information

See California salary details

$21.1K

$86.5K

$144.9K

How much do additive jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for additive in California is $86,458.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,753.00 and $106,246.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an additive manufacturing engineer?

Additive manufacturing engineers are professionals who specialize in the design, development, and optimization of products using additive manufacturing processes, commonly known as 3D printing. They work with advanced technologies to build objects layer by layer from digital models, using materials like plastics, metals, and composites. Their responsibilities include selecting suitable materials, choosing appropriate printing methods, ensuring quality control, and improving production efficiency. Additive manufacturing engineers are employed in industries such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods, where they help innovate and streamline manufacturing processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an additive manufacturing engineer?

To thrive as an Additive Manufacturing Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, materials science, and 3D modeling, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, 3D printing systems (such as FDM, SLS, or SLA), and certification in additive manufacturing technologies is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help individuals excel in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring the efficient design, prototyping, and production of high-quality components using advanced manufacturing techniques.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in additive manufacturing roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in additive manufacturing often face challenges related to material consistency, equipment maintenance, and ensuring quality control of printed parts. Staying up to date with rapidly evolving technologies and adapting to new software or hardware can also be demanding. These challenges can be addressed through ongoing training, collaborating closely with engineering and quality assurance teams, and participating in industry forums to share best practices and solutions.

What is the difference between Additive vs CNC Machinist?

AspectAdditiveCNC Machinist
Required CredentialsTypically requires certifications in additive manufacturing or 3D printingRequires certifications in CNC programming and machining
Work EnvironmentOften in labs or manufacturing facilities focused on 3D printingIn machine shops or manufacturing plants operating CNC machines
Industry UsageUsed in aerospace, healthcare, and prototyping sectorsCommon in automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing industries
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for manufacturing methods and skillsCompared for precision machining and programming skills

While both Additive and CNC Machinist roles are involved in manufacturing, Additive focuses on 3D printing techniques, whereas CNC Machinists operate computer-controlled machines for subtractive manufacturing. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus within manufacturing industries.

What cities in California are hiring for Additive jobs?

Cities in California with the most Additive job openings:

Infographic showing various Additive job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Internship, and 75% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,458 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

Metal Additive Prototyping Specialist

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

Apple
Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

$51.19 - $89.84/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate and monitor metal additive 3D printers, including Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) technology.

  • Work with CAD software to modify designs and develop optimized printing processes, workflows, and layouts.

  • Perform post-processing operations such as support removal, hand polishing, and sand blasting to finish parts.


Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 684 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Do you possess a keen eye for detail, a passion for excellence, and a strong desire to contribute to extraordinary outcomes? If so, you will thrive as a member of the diverse team that exemplifies these values. Apple’s ADL (Advanced Development Lab) combines technical know-how and creativity to deliver exceptional products and customer experiences. We take pride in building high-quality models, prototypes, and manufacturing solutions that support the development of future Apple products. We invite you to bring your curiosity, craftsmanship, and dedication to our team!
Apple is seeking a motivated and experienced metal additive 3D printing specialist to join this team, where extensive innovation and collaboration among team members drive towards exceptional outcomes. In this role, you will provide guidance on design for metal additive manufacturing (DfAM), work with and modify CAD prototypes, operate various metal 3D printers, and perform post-processing.
Description
This role focuses on developing, optimizing, and scaling metal additive manufacturing processes using advanced metal 3D printing technologies such as Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF). The ideal candidate will collaborate with design engineers and manufacturing teams to create prototypes that meet functional and aesthetic requirements. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of advanced manufacturing processes, enabling the creation of next-generation products.","responsibilities":"Review incoming orders for DfAM principles
Provide metal additive expertise to engineers during prototyping stages of product design
Work with CAD software to modify designs as needed for metal additive processes
Balance needs of various customers to deliver prototypes in a timely manner
Develop optimized printing processes, workflows, and layouts
Set-up and operate Metal Additive 3D Printers
Load and unload raw materials and finished parts
Closely monitor machine operations and make adjustments as necessary to maintain dimensional spec and quality
Perform finishing operations, e.g. support removal, hand polishing, sand blasting,etc.
Follow all safety protocols
Maintain a clean and organized work area
Inspect finished parts for quality and accuracy
Communicate with team members to ensure smooth operation
Preferred Qualifications
2+ years of experience with metal additive 3D printing, particularly LPBF
1+ years of experience with MJF, SLS, or SLA 3D printing
Ability to optimize and prepare 3D models in Siemens NX CAD to support LPBF processes
Proficiency with nTopology or Siemens NX CAD for topology optimization
Experience with simulation software for metal additive processes
Ability to analyze and resolve challenges related to part orientation, support structures, thermal distortions, and post-processing
Experience in a high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environment
Experience with Good Manufacturing Practices
Minimum Qualifications
Strong collaboration skills in a team environment
Able to work independently on assignments
Attention to detail with a focus on producing high-quality results
Understanding of additive manufacturing principles, including DfAM and post-processing techniques
Experience with metal additive 3D printing
Proficiency in at least one CAD modeling software
Full-time, on-site presence required to work with manufacturing equipment, prototypes, and internal customers
Pay & Benefits
At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $51.19 and $89.84/hr, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple's discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You'll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses - including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976