3-D Printing Specialists

Three-dimensional (3-D) printing is the manufacturing of a three-dimensional solid object from a computer-generated file. The object is manufactured by adding layer after layer of building material (e.g., rubber, plastic, metal, ceramic, glass, thermoplastic composites infused with carbon fibers and nanotubes, concrete, and even biomaterials) in precise geometric shapes until the product is finished. These raw materials are usually in the form of powders or wires that can be melted by a laser to form each layer of the product.

The field of 3-D printing has experienced rapid growth in the past decade. This technology is now used in many industries, including aerospace, consumer electronics, automotive, fashion, construction, dental restorations, medical prosthetics, and hearing aids. Three-dimensional printing is also known as additive manufacturing, although many industry experts typically view 3-D printing as a subcategory of additive manufacturing.

3-D printing specialists are the software developers, engineers, scientists, and technicians who design and develop 3-D printers, materials, processes, and products, as well as perform other tasks. They are sometimes known as additive manufacturing specialists. 

Salary Range

$25,000 to $100,000+

Minimum Education Level

Some Postsecondary Training

Certification/License

Recommended

Outlook

Faster than the Average

Personality Traits

Problem-Solving

Scientific

Technical

Career Ladder

3-D Printing Business Owner or Consultant

3-D Printing Manager

3-D Printing Engineer, or Software Designer, or Scientist

3-D Printing Technician