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Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

L3HHCM20

$93K - $127K/yr

Senior 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 every ...

Velo3d-

Staff Additive Manufacturing Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$165 - $188/hr

Mentor and provide technical guidance to engineers and technicians, helping build organizational capability in additive manufacturing processes and production excellence. * Partner with manufacturing ...

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Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer information

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

As of Aug 25, 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 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 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 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 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.

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Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Additive Manufacturing Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Additive Manufacturing Engineer I/II

Long Beach, CA • Hybrid

Rocket Lab Corporation
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks

Learn more about Rocket Lab Corporationexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

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 solution leveraging Rocket Lab's proven execution history with the Electron program. If you're interested 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.

Join one of the world's fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of it. In addition to competitive base pay, you'll receive company stock as part of your total compensation package, giving you a direct stake in our success. As we expand to new launch sites, groundbreaking missions, and global markets, your ownership has the opportunity to grow alongside the company.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee discounts.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)
$95,000—$130,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.

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