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Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Tennessee

Our unique model of centralized go-to-market and decentralized engineering allows us to move with ... Working knowledge of common manufacturing processes (machining, sheet metal, additive manufacturing ...

Job Overview The Manufacturing Engineer II is responsible for leading the development, optimization ... additives, and colorants based on performance, cost, and regulatory requirements. • Lead ...

Through the integration of additive manufacturing, the company aims to meet the growing and urgent ... Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, Facilities, Quality, Finance, and ...

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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 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 skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a freelance additive manufacturing engineer?

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 Tennessee? The most popular types of Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Tennessee? For Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Applications Engineer for Advanced Manufacturing

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Knoxville, TN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

Requisition Id 16890 

Overview:

We are seeking a Sensor Application Engineer who will focus on design and installation and assist with the development (hardware and software), of sensor systems for advanced manufacturing systems. They will maintain sensor calibration and quality across a variety of machines and support the development of state-of-the-art sensor technologies and their usage in advanced machine learning algorithms. This position resides in the Manufacturing Systems Analytics (MSA) Group in the Manufacturing Science Division (MSD), Energy Science and Technology Directorate (ESTD), at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

  • Design and install image-based and other sensing systems
  • Develop data acquisition software for sensing systems
  • Maintain and upgrade existing imaging and sensing systems
  • Develop new sensing techniques and technologies
  • Calibrate sensors and ensure data integrity for use in machine learning algorithms
  • Support R&D projects for the MSA Group and across the MDF
  • Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:

  • BS in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, mechatronics, robotics, computer engineering, computer science, or closely related field.
  • Programming experience, preferably in Python.
  • Strong desire to learn new skills and the ability to learn independently.
  • Excellent verbal communication skills.
  • Desire and ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic team environment.
  • At least three of the following:
    • Mechanical design experience using 3D CAD software
    • Experience with sensor instrumentation, particularly cameras and optics
    • Experience with microcontrollers and/or robotics
    • Experience with computer vision techniques
    • Experience with software development for real-time data acquisition
    • Knowledge and/or experience of metal additive manufacturing processes

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Working knowledge of machine learning and deep learning models, including their application within manufacturing environments
  • Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
  • Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

Special Requirements:

  • Visa sponsorship: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position
  • Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements: Export control, no clearance: This position requires access to technology that is subject to export control requirements. Successful candidates must be qualified for such access without an export control license. For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.

To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.


If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.


ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.  UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.


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