What career paths can you take as a 3D printing technician?

1 3D Printing Engineer

A 3D printing engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing 3D printing systems and processes. They use different materials, software, and hardware to create innovative solutions for various industries and applications. Researching and evaluating new 3D printing technologies and methods, developing and optimizing 3D printing workflows and parameters, troubleshooting and resolving issues and defects, collaborating with other engineers, designers, and clients on projects, and documenting and presenting results are all tasks that a 3D printing engineer might perform. To become a 3D printing engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering with a focus on mechanical, electrical, or materials engineering. You should also have strong skills in 3D modeling, CAD, programming, problem-solving, along with familiarity with FDM, SLA, SLS, or DMLS technologies. Additionally, it is important to be knowledgeable about the corresponding materials, software, and hardware.

2 3D Printing Designer

A 3D printing designer is responsible for crafting and altering 3D models for 3D printing purposes. They employ various software tools and artistic skills to design and visualize 3D objects that can be printed in different materials and sizes. This might include sketching and conceptualizing 3D printing ideas, using 3D modeling software like Blender, SketchUp, or Fusion 360 to create and edit 3D models, applying textures, colors, and details to 3D models, preparing and exporting 3D models for 3D printing, and testing and refining 3D models to ensure printability and quality. To become a 3D printing designer, you’ll need a portfolio of your work, as well as some formal education or training in 3D design, graphic design, or related fields. You must also demonstrate strong skills in 3D modeling, CAD, design, and creativity. Furthermore, you should be proficient with various 3D printing software such as Cura, Slic3r or Simplify3D, along with the best practices for 3D printing design.

3 3D Printing Operator

A 3D printing operator is responsible for operating and maintaining 3D printers and related equipment, as well as working with materials such as PLA, ABS, resin, or metal to produce 3D printed parts and products. Tasks they may carry out include loading and unloading 3D printing materials and models, setting up and calibrating 3D printers and slicing software, monitoring and controlling 3D printing processes and quality, cleaning and servicing the printers and accessories, and reporting and documenting activities and outcomes. To become a 3D printing operator, you typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, some experience in 3D printing, manufacturing or related fields, basic skills in 3D printing, CAD, math and communication, plus knowledge of various 3D printing machines such as MakerBot, Ultimaker or Formlabs. Additionally, you need to be familiar with safety and environmental regulations for 3D printing.

4 3D Printing Educator

A 3D printing educator is an individual responsible for teaching and training others on 3D printing concepts and skills. They work with different audiences, such as students, teachers, hobbyists, or professionals, to provide 3D printing education and guidance. The tasks they may perform involve developing and delivering curricula and lessons, demonstrating and explaining 3D printing principles and techniques, assessing and evaluating learning outcomes and feedback, providing support and assistance to learners, and advocating for 3D printing education and awareness. To become a 3D printing educator, a bachelor's degree or higher in education, engineering, design, or a related field is typically required along with some teaching or training experience. Furthermore, advanced skills in 3D printing, CAD, pedagogy, communication are necessary. Additionally, knowledge of various 3D printing resources such as online platforms, books, or communities is essential for success in this role. Lastly, familiarity with the best practices for 3D printing education is also important.

5 3D Printing Entrepreneur

As a 3D printing entrepreneur, you must be responsible for creating and running a 3D printing business or venture, often in different markets such as consumer, industrial, or medical. Your tasks may include identifying and researching 3D printing opportunities and needs, developing and testing products or services, marketing and selling them, managing and growing the business operations and finances, and networking with other stakeholders and experts. To be successful in this role, you need to have a combination of 3D printing, business, and entrepreneurial skills and knowledge. You also need to be passionate about 3D printing, have a vision for your business, take risks, learn from failures, stay informed about trends, challenges, opportunities, and legal/ethical aspects of 3D printing.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?