Design Lead - Manufacturing Process

Job Summary

An Additive Manufacturing (AM) or 3D Printing professional oversees the layer-by-layer fabrication of physical objects using digital CAD models. Depending on the specific role (such as a technician, design engineer, or production specialist), responsibilities span design preparation, printer setup, material handling, and post-processing.     

Key Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

• Design & Optimization (DfAM): Evaluate customer parts and redesign them using Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) principles (e.g., lattice structures, topology optimization, part consolidation).  
• Process & Build Setup: Prepare 3D models in slicing software, set machine parameters (temperature, laser power, speed), and manage print build queues.  
• Operations & Maintenance: Operate industrial 3D printers, supervise machine calibrations, and handle routine maintenance or troubleshooting.  
• Post-Processing & Finishing: Coordinate and execute post-printing steps, including support removal, heat treatment, sandblasting, polishing, and CNC machining integration.  
• Quality Assurance & Testing: Work with QC/CMM inspection teams to verify dimensional accuracy, material integrity, and compliance with industrial standards.  

Skill Requirements

• • Proficiency in CAD software and 3D file formats (STL, STEP, etc.).
  • Knowledge of AM technologies (FDM, SLA, SLS, DMLS) and material properties (plastics, resins, metals).
  • Familiarity with post-processing and basic mechanical assembly.  
• Education & Experience:
  • Typically requires a Diploma, Bachelor's degree, or certification in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, or a related field.
  • Ranging from entry-level/internships to 3+ years of hands-on experience with industrial 3D printing equipment.  
• Soft Skills: Problem-solving attention to detail, documentation skills, and cross-functional communication with design and production teams

Other Requirements

1. Optional But Valuable Certifications: Certified Manufacturing Engineer (Cmfge), Design For Six Sigma (Dfss) Certification.