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Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in California

Astranis

Manufacturing Engineer, Additive

San Francisco, CA

$86K - $110K/yr

Manufacturing Engineer, Additive This role is our first Manufacturing Engineer focused on additive manufacturing and will be responsible for building Astranis's additive manufacturing capability from ...

Astranis

Manufacturing Engineer, Additive

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$86K - $110K/yr

Manufacturing Engineer, Additive This role is our first Manufacturing Engineer focused on additive manufacturing and will be responsible for building Astranis's additive manufacturing capability from ...

L3HHCM20

$93K - $127K/yr

Job Title: Sr. Associate, Additive Manufacturing Engineer Job ID: 40294 Job Location: Canoga Park, CA Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have ...

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Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer information

What is the difference between Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer vs Additive Manufacturing Technician?

AspectFreelance Additive Manufacturing EngineerAdditive Manufacturing Technician
CredentialsTypically requires engineering degree, certifications in CAD and 3D printing technologiesUsually technical diploma or certification in additive manufacturing or related fields
Work EnvironmentConsulting projects, client sites, or remote work; focus on design and process optimizationManufacturing facilities, labs; focus on machine operation and maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageFreelance basis serving multiple clients in aerospace, automotive, healthcareManufacturers, print service providers, research labs

The Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer focuses on designing, optimizing, and consulting on additive manufacturing processes, often working independently across various projects. In contrast, the Additive Manufacturing Technician primarily operates and maintains 3D printing equipment within manufacturing settings. Both roles require technical knowledge, but the engineer's role is more design and process-oriented, while the technician's role is hands-on with equipment.

What is a Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer?

A Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer is a professional who specializes in designing, developing, and improving products using 3D printing and other additive manufacturing technologies on a contract or project basis. They work independently rather than being employed full-time by a single company, often collaborating with different clients across various industries such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods. Their responsibilities typically include creating CAD models, selecting suitable materials, optimizing print processes, and ensuring the quality and functionality of the final products.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance additive manufacturing engineers, and how can they be overcome?

Freelance additive manufacturing engineers often face challenges such as acquiring diverse projects, keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies, and managing client expectations on timelines and deliverables. Staying competitive requires continuous learning and investment in new software or equipment. Building a strong professional network and maintaining clear communication with clients can help overcome these challenges, ensuring successful project delivery and repeat business.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, CAD design, and 3D printing technologies, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with additive manufacturing software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), various 3D printer systems, and industry standards like ISO/ASTM 52900 is typically required. Strong project management, problem-solving, and client communication skills help you stand out in a freelance capacity. These competencies ensure you can deliver innovative, high-quality solutions that meet client needs and adapt to rapidly changing technology in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California? For Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer job openings:
Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Additive Manufacturing Engineer I/II

Rocket Lab Corporation

Long Beach, CA • Hybrid

$76K - $98K/yr

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago

Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 71 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Additive Manufacturing Engineer I/II 

NEUTRON 

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solutionleveragingRocket Lab's proven execution history with the Electron program. Ifyou'reinterested in joining a high performing team and pushing the boundaries of humanity with a clean sheet, reusable launch vehicle, this is your opportunity! 

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING ENGINEER - DED  

Based at Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, California, the Additive Manufacturing Engineer-DED is responsible for supporting the development of various directed energy deposition (DED, EHLA, Hybrid Solutions) with various alloys. This role will support all Additive processes involved with the Archimedes engines. You will support the Manager of Additive Manufacturing Engineering and Production organization with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors. 

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: 

  • Develop printing parameters for various metallic alloys using a variety of printing methods (DED; Hybrid; monolithic & graded alloys).
  • Create new and improve existing print programs. Provide engineering support for the day-to-day Additive Manufacturing operations.
  • Work closely with downstream support functions to ensure print geometries can be effectively post processed.
  • Ability to provide critical feedback during the DfAM process.
  • Work closely with Design & Manufacturing Engineers to design specific types of Additive Manufacturing. Effectively communicate why specific aspects of DfAM are necessary. 

(Please note: this position can be hired at the Additive Manufacturing Engineer I or Additive Manufacturing Engineer II level)

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS AN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING ENGINEER I: 

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical engineering, Aerospace Engineering or relevant engineering field
  • Experience with additive manufacturing of metallic materials
  • Proficient with DfAM fundamentals
  • Experience modeling in Siemens NX or SolidWorks
  • Experience programming in CAM programming in Siemens NX or MasterCam. 

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS AN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING ENGINEER II: 

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical engineering, Aerospace Engineering or relevant engineering field
  • 2+ years of experience with additive manufacturing of metallic materials
  • Proficient with DfAM fundamentals
  • Experience modeling in Siemens NX or SolidWorks
  • Experience programming in CAM programming in Siemens NX or MasterCam. 

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: 

  • Master's Degree in Material Science, Additive Manufacturing or relevant engineering field.
  • 3+ years' experience in Additive Manufacturing process development.
  • Experience on LP-DED platforms.
  • Experience with robotic programming.
  • Ability to create and deliver accurate and concise presentations for design, manufacturing, and quality.
  • Capable of solving complex problems with little to no supervision in a timely manner.
  • A strong work ethic and capable of performing under pressure.
  • Strong ability to provide and clearly articulate technical direction. 
This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

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