Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Minnesota

Stratasys is a world leader in 3D printing!

Stratasys is leading the global shift to additive manufacturing with innovative 3D printing solutions for industries such as aerospace, automotive, consumer products and healthcare. Through smart and connected 3D printers, polymer materials, a software ecosystem, and parts on demand, Stratasys solutions deliver competitive advantages at every stage in the product value chain. The world's leading organizations turn to Stratasys to transform product design, bring agility to manufacturing and supply chains, and improve patient care.

Stratasys Direct Manufacturing is seeking a 3D Printing Machine Operator to join our team in Minnetonka, MN. In this role, you will be responsible for machine setup and changeovers, material preparation, and supporting efficient production operations.

You will perform routine equipment maintenance, mix and prepare materials according to established procedures, and work closely with maintenance and programming teams to resolve machine or material-related issues. This position plays a critical role in maximizing machine uptime while ensuring compliance with quality standards, documentation requirements, and good manufacturing practices.

What you will be doing:

• Staging and storage of raw materials
• Prepare materials, which may include mixing powders, to be loaded into machines
• Prepare and load machines for the next build
• Start machines for new or additional builds
• Manages the workflow for the assigned team
• Perform minor maintenance if needed
• Resolve problems that arise during build prep or the build, collaborating with programmers and maintenance as needed
• Clean manufacturing floor after changeovers/end of day
• Calibrates or adjusts equipment to ensure quality production
• Assists with machine operator training

• Remove finished builds from machines and take to breakout area
• Clean-up auxiliary equipment
• Clean and prep the machine for the next build
• As needed perform the material stripping operation
• Performs routine checks on machine parts such as laser calibration, leak rate and IR calibration
• Records and reports all failures to service engineers

• Document and update databases, and any material or build logs

• Document Incoming raw materials
• Maintain service records and reports
• Keep machine areas and machines clean at all times
• Ensures assigned team follows standard operating processes and procedures i.e., ISO, ITAR and Aerospace
• Help improve processes and procedures

• Follow all company and specifically departmental safety policies and procedures
• Attend all required company training
• Demonstrate commitments to Stratasys Behaviors by leading, acting, and modeling these values

• Other responsibilities as assigned by the department or manager

Must have for this role:

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Four years of experience as a machine operator in a manufacturing or production setting
• Solid understanding of additive manufacturing processes
• Able to work independently
• Advanced reading and writing
• Advanced Computer skills (Microsoft Office and email)                      
• Advanced Math skills
• Good mechanical aptitude skills and manual dexterity for operating machinery
• Excellent problem solving skills utilizing previous experience
• Critical thinking skills

Nice to have:

• Shows willingness to take on new tasks and embraces new challenges
• Knowledge of properties of plastics
• Ability to work overtime and weekends when needed

Travel required: None

What you will be part of:

• Company Overview - https://www.stratasys.com/en/about-us/history/
• Our Culture and Values - https://www.stratasys.com/en/about-us/culture/
• Our Sustainability "3D Printing a Better Tomorrow" - https://www.stratasys.com/en/about-us/sustainability/
• Our Locations - https://www.stratasys.com/en/contact-us/office-locations/
• Check out our Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wmDfmt2bNI

At Stratasys we have designed a comprehensive Total Rewards program that goes beyond the basics and supports our People First strategy. When you join Stratasys, you'll gain access to benefits and perks that will support you and your family both inside and outside of work. 

For this position, the starting pay rate is from $21 to $26 per hour, which does not include variable incentive pay. This range represents a good faith estimate for this position. Your individual base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, geographical location, and/or experiences.

In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive total rewards package (e.g., Medical, Dental & Vision, Health Savings Accounts, Mental Health Resources etc.), recognition programs, employee stock purchase plan, and 401(k) with company match. 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Stratasys will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Stratasys is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their protected Veteran or disabled status and will not be discriminated against for their race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, or national origin or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or applicable local law. Please view Equal Employment Opportunity Posters provided by OFCCP here.