The Additive Manufacturing Manager is responsible for leading the development, implementation, and optimization of 3D printing technologies to support firearms design, prototyping, and production. This role drives innovation, improves product performance, and enhances manufacturing efficiency while ensuring compliance with all regulatory and safety requirements.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities- Lead and supervise a team of additive manufacturing technicians.
- Establish performance goals, provide coaching, and manage team development.
- Promote a culture of safety, innovation, and continuous improvement.
- Develop and execute the company's additive manufacturing roadmap aligned with business and engineering goals.
- Identify opportunities to replace or augment traditional manufacturing processes with additive solutions.
- Develop, validate, and standardize additive manufacturing processes for firearms components, tooling, and fixtures.
- Optimize build parameters, material usage, and post-processing workflows.
- Lead efforts to improve throughput, reduce costs, and ensure repeatability.
- Collaborate with design engineering teams to implement Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) principles.
- Support rapid prototyping, product testing, and design iteration cycles.
- Assist in transitioning AM parts from prototype to production where applicable.
- Ensure all AM processes meet strict quality, durability, and safety requirements for firearms components.
- Work with Quality Assurance to establish inspection criteria, validation protocols, and documentation standards.
- Ensure compliance with relevant regulations (e.g., ATF requirements, ITAR/EAR, and internal safety policies).
- Maintain traceability of materials and components.
- Manage selection, qualification, and testing of additive materials (metals, polymers, composites).
- Oversee equipment maintenance, calibration, and vendor relationships.
- Stay current on emerging AM technologies and industry trends.
- Provide technical expertise to leadership on AM capabilities and limitations.
- Ensure safe handling of powders, resins, and other AM materials.
- Maintain compliance with occupational safety standards and environmental regulations.
- Implement proper training and PPE requirements for all AM personnel.
Required Education/Experience- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Science, or related field preferred.
- 5-7+ years of experience in additive manufacturing, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
- Experience in firearms, defense, aerospace, or precision manufacturing industries preferred.
- Proven experience implementing AM in both prototyping and production environments.
- Strong knowledge of additive manufacturing technologies (e.g., DMLS, SLS, SLA, binder jetting).
- Experience with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, NX) and build preparation tools (e.g., Materialise, EOSPRINT).
- Familiarity with Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) principles.
- Knowledge of post-processing techniques (heat treatment, machining, finishing).
- Understanding of materials properties and testing methods.
- Familiarity with ATF, ITAR/EAR, and other applicable firearms or defense industry regulations preferred.
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration
- Results-oriented with attention to quality and detail
- Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
Work Environment:- Work performed in a fast-paced manufacturing machine shop environment.
- Exposed to machine shop manufacturing elements such as noise, dust, odors, fumes, powders, resins, and industrial equipment (with appropriate safety measures).
Physical Requirements Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 30 lbs.
- Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
- Frequently required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms; and stoop or crouch.
Benefits:- Company contributes 100% for employee HMO medical option.
- Dental
- Vision
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan including 4% matching contributions
- Disability Plans
- Company paid Life Insurance
- Paid vacation and sick leave
- Paid Holidays
Job TypeFT - Salary
On-Site Monday to Friday. May be required to work after-hours when needed to meet production demands.
