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Additive Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ADDITIVE TECHNICIAN (RAPTOR) This role will support printer setup and post print-processing of metal powder bed fusion products for the Raptor Engine. Technicians on this team are versatile and ...

ADDITIVE TECHNICIAN (RAPTOR) This role will support printer setup and post print-processing of metal powder bed fusion products for the Raptor Engine. Technicians on this team are versatile and ...

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Additive information

See California salary details

$21.1K

$86.5K

$144.9K

How much do additive jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 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 are additive manufacturing engineers?

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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Additive Manufacturing Engineer, and why are they important?

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 popular job titles related to Additive jobs in California? For Additive jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Additive jobs? Cities in California with the most Additive job openings:
Sr. Software Engineer, Additive Manufacturing (Raptor)

Sr. Software Engineer, Additive Manufacturing (Raptor)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$124K - $163K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 61 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Job Summary:
SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. In this role, you will be developing the core software operating our additive manufacturing machines, impacting the most advanced rocket engines in the world.
Responsibilities:
• Architect and develop software for an advanced, production-scale metal 3D printing system and the infrastructure required to verify them
• Collaborate with automation and controls engineers to connect software to motion and control systems
• Work with our additive manufacturing, production, and engine design engineers to develop and maintain additive software, crossing all required domains necessary to improve printed hardware outcomes via software and hardware changes
• Develop production-ready control software and algorithms for the lasing and control systems in the printers
• Follow and maintain high software standards and software engineering best practices, including design, code, and test reviews.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or STEM discipline and 5+ years of software development experience; OR 8+ years of professional experience building software in lieu of a degree
• 5+ years of experience with proficient writing production code in C++
• Experience with modern continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) tools
• Experience working in a Linux environment
• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Preferred:
• Experience with libraries such as QT, VTK, Boost, CUDA, and tools such as CMake
• Experience with mechatronics, microcontrollers or FPGA computing hardware in a professional capacity
• Real-time embedded software development experience
• Computer geometry experience
• Experience with laser powder bed fusion or similar additive manufacturing processes
• Able to work effectively in a dynamic environment while assuming high levels of responsibility and demonstrating accountability for software outcomes
Company:
SpaceX develops and operates rockets, satellite networks, and AI infrastructure including launch, connectivity, and cloud services. Founded in 2002, the company is headquartered in Hawthorne, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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