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Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Virginia

BWX Technologies

Materials Engineer

Lynchburg, VA

$119K/yr

Must have additive manufacturing experience. * Must have hands-on experience and ability to work in a laboratory environment * Must be able to provide clear, concise, accurate and timely written and ...

BWX Technologies

Materials Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$76K - $119K/yr

Must have additive manufacturing experience. * Must have hands-on experience and ability to work in a laboratory environment * Must be able to provide clear, concise, accurate and timely written and ...

BWX Technologies

Materials Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

Must have additive manufacturing experience. * Must have hands-on experience and ability to work in a laboratory environment * Must be able to provide clear, concise, accurate and timely written and ...

BWXT

Materials Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

Must have additive manufacturing experience. * Must have hands-on experience and ability to work in a laboratory environment * Must be able to provide clear, concise, accurate and timely written and ...

BWXT

Materials Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$76K - $119K/yr

Must have additive manufacturing experience. * Must have hands-on experience and ability to work in a laboratory environment * Must be able to provide clear, concise, accurate and timely written and ...

BWXT

Materials Engineer

Lynchburg, VA

Must have additive manufacturing experience. * Must have hands-on experience and ability to work in a laboratory environment * Must be able to provide clear, concise, accurate and timely written 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 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs near you

Additive Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Strategic HR Client Job Openings

Falls Church, VA

$100K - $140K/yr

Other

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Opportunity: Additive Manufacturing Engineering Manager with Formative 3D in Falls Church, VAAre you a handson leader with deep expertise in largeformat additive manufacturing and extrusionbased processes? Do you enjoy building teams, optimizing production systems, and solving complex print challenges in real time? Are you excited to help scale a cuttingedge 3D printing operation and shape the future of manufacturing? If you answered yes, we want to speak with you!

As the Additive Manufacturing Engineering Manager, you will lead both the strategic direction and daytoday execution of our additive manufacturing operations. This role blends leadership, technical expertise, and operational ownership-guiding production while advancing the next generation of processes, systems, and capabilities. You'll work closely across engineering, production, and leadership teams to ensure efficient, scalable manufacturing while driving continuous improvement.

Salary range: $100k - $140k; depending on knowledge and experience.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead and develop a team of LFAM/FDM technicians, promoting safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
  • Own print processes and optimization, including parameters, material flow, toolpaths, and part quality.
  • Troubleshoot production issues (e.g., delamination, warping, equipment faults) and implement corrective actions quickly.
  • Partner with Production to streamline post-processing and assembly workflows.
  • Manage capacity planning, scheduling, and staffing in coordination with HR.
  • Collaborate with Engineering and R&D on new materials, processes, and finishing methods.
  • Drive automation and smart factory initiatives across the facility.
  • Report to leadership on KPIs, timelines, resource use, and risks.
  • Establish and maintain SOPs, ensuring quality, safety, and accurate documentation.
  • Coach and develop team members through performance management and career growth planning.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field.
  • 7-10+ years of manufacturing experience, including hands-on additive manufacturing (LFAM and/or FDM).
  • Expertise in extrusion-based printing, including toolpaths, parameter optimization, and pellet/filament material handling.
  • Experience with large-format additive systems (e.g., CEAD, Caracol, Thermwood) preferred.
  • Knowledge of automation, robotics, and smart factory systems (MES, ERP, IoT).
  • Lean, Six Sigma, or similar experience driving yield improvement, scrap reduction, and cycle time efficiency.
  • Proven ability to lead technical teams in fast-paced or startup environments.
  • Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work in an industrial environment and use PPE as required.

Why Join Formative 3D?

Built environments can be manufactured the same way the best technology products are: faster, smarter and at scale.

Formative 3D deploys full-scale manufacturing solutions built for speed, flexibility and real-world impact. By combining advanced 3D printing, robotics and technology, we rethink how physical products for the built world are created - from concept to installation. We design and manufacture products that range from high-end furniture systems and architectural lighting to jigs, fixtures, and tooling.

Formative 3D pushes additive manufacturing forward and sets a new standard for how the built environment gets made. After years of research, our first production facility launched in 2026, and we're already proving that a new model of manufacturing isn't theoretical; it's operational.

Apply online today to join a great team!

Formative 3D is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to hiring and developing the most qualified individuals based on jobrelated experience, skills, and merit. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. We value a respectful, inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. Formative 3D maintains a drugfree workplace consistent with applicable local, state, and federal laws.

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