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Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$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

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$132

How much do freelance additive manufacturing engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance additive manufacturing engineer in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.
More about Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.
Principal Additive Manufacturing Engineer

Principal Additive Manufacturing Engineer

Cumberland Additive Inc

Pflugerville, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Role and Responsibilities
  • The candidate will utilize skills and experience in additive manufacturing (AM) to provide guidance to customers on part design and selection, develop robust manufacturing plans and build files, and oversee successful completion of customer orders.
  • The Senior and Principal Engineer levels within the engineering team are reserved for candidates possessing a combination of education and experience that supports their status as a subject-matter-expert in the field of powder bed fusion. Although this is an individual contributor position, the person in this role provides advisory support for the internal engineering team for learning, training, and guidance on technical matters. Due to the breadth of manufacturing scope we handle, this role requires considerable background knowledge in powder bed fusion, post-processing, heat treating, destructive and non-destructive testing, and finishing methods.
  • The ideal candidate has experience in a production environment with selection of appropriate part geometries, materials, supports, and nesting strategies for metal powder bed fusion. Interpersonal skills are critical for properly communicating with customers and internal stakeholders.
  • This position features three facets:
  • Internal production engineering activities, serving as the subject matter expert
  • Customer-facing product development and support
  • Engineering technical programs /R&D

Engineering and Manufacturing

  • Maintain an intimate working knowledge of powder bed fusion AM machines (EOS, SLM, Colibrium, etc.)
  • Assess part characteristics for manufacturability, design optimization, material and equipment selection
  • Guide customers in the selection of materials
  • Develop content and best practices for design and manufacturability by establishing design guidelines to ensure lessons learned and best practices are documented
  • Create build files, layouts, and use cost estimation models
  • Lead and provide technical direction for technicians
  • Provide "hands-on" support with printing and inspection equipment
  • Manage acquisition of necessary maintenance contracts, consumables, and software to support growth
  • Read and understand dimensional drawings, including GD&T
  • Analyze and specify post-processing steps such as heat treatment, finish machining, and coatings
  • Support and guide the root cause and corrective action (RCCA) process for technical issues.

Customer Programs

  • Assist in assembling quotations in response to customer RFQ's
  • Lead customer projects as the assigned project engineer
  • Prepare project schedules to define project scope deliverables
  • Lead and/or participate in regular customer meetings
  • Monitor and manage project costs in respect to the established budget
  • Anticipate problems and concerns relevant to project management and provide timely solutions
  • Coordinate document submittals, approvals, distribution, and revision control
  • Initiate purchase requisitions for tools, fixtures, operational equipment, and outside services
  • Maintain a strong working relationship with the customer
  • Occasional travel may be required to support project or program goals
  • Engineering Technical Programs / R&D

    • Lead advanced technical engineering programs (material/product/process development)
    • Lead statistical process control initiatives
    • Lead operational and supply chain cost reduction and optimization projects
    • Provide guidance on facility improvements, equipment selection, and in-sourcing
Qualifications and Education Requirements
  • Position title and compensation for Senior AM Engineer and Principal AM Engineer are determined based on qualifications and experience. Candidates shall meet the minimum requirements stated below.
  • Engineering degree in a related discipline (additive manufacturing, mechanical, metallurgical, etc.)
  • Minimum years of experience follow the Levels described below.
  • Experience with the following software: CAD (e.g. SolidWorks, Catia), Build Preparation/Slice software (e.g. Materialise Magics, 3DExpert), Microsoft Office Suite
  • Experience in a manufacturing environment with processing parts via powder bed fusion.
  • This position is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) which requires U.S. person status. ITAR defines U.S. person as an U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e. 'Green Card Holder'), Political Asylee, or Refugee.

    Senior: Degreed Engineer with 10+ years of AM Engineering or related experience. Possesses extensive skills and previous experience in design and optimization for 3D printing, machine setup and troubleshooting, material selection and analysis, and production engineering activities (building BOMS, routings). Brings wisdom from previous experience to the team (additive manufacturing and post processing), works autonomously, and supports business development objectives successfully by building customer relationships. Maintains awareness of technical industry trends and best practices and uses that knowledge to ideate and drive continuous improvement for the engineering team. Develops strategic plans for engineering-related projects to increase capability and technical breadth within the organization. Serves as a mentor to engineers at lower levels.

    Principal: Engineer with 13+ years of AM Engineering or related experience. Masters or PhD in AM or related discipline may count for up to 3 years of experience. In addition to Senior-level qualities, carries 3+ years of previous experience in a senior-level technical role as a subject-matter expert.

  • Preferred Additional Qualifications and Education
    • Masters or PhD in additive manufacturing or related engineering discipline
    • Previous experience working for a Contract Manufacturer in laser powder bed fusion
    • Experience with ISO 9001 and/or AS9100 Revision D
    Mechanical Test Lab Experience (Destructive and Non-Destructive Testing)