Machine Operator

Job Title: Additive Technician – 3D Printing / Machine Operator

Job Description

This role is based in Gaithersburg and focuses on the daily operation of additive manufacturing and 3D printing equipment. The Additive Technician is responsible for running a variety of industrial and desktop 3D printers, handling powders, performing detailed post-processing on printed parts, and maintaining a clean and organized shop environment. Success in this position requires strong manual dexterity, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to excel in a fast-paced, detail-oriented setting while working independently.

Responsibilities

• Operate a range of additive manufacturing and 3D printing machines, including EOS SLS systems, Stratasys Fortus 450, Stratasys 900, PostPro3D Vapor Smoother, Prusa i3Mk3s+ desktop FDM printers, and Stratasys Connex machines.
• Handle and process powders for additive manufacturing, including powder blending to meet shop specifications and performing SLS build breakouts.
• Remove support structures from FDM printed models using manual methods and soluble baths to achieve clean, production-ready parts.
• Perform detailed post-processing on 3D printed components, including drilling and tapping holes, installing inserts and helicoils, dyeing, sanding, and properly bagging and tagging finished parts.
• Carry out routine shop maintenance and cleaning to ensure a safe, organized, and efficient work area.
• Use ERP and Magics software systems regularly to track jobs, manage workflows, and support production planning.
• Work independently while multitasking across multiple machines and tasks, ensuring all work meets quality and safety standards.
• Follow all quality and safety systems, policies, and procedures to maintain compliance with facility requirements.
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors as needed to support production goals and continuous improvement efforts.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• High level of manual dexterity for handling small parts and detailed post-processing work.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort working with machines, tools, and production equipment.
• Extreme attention to detail and patience when performing repetitive or precision tasks.
• Ability to work unattended while effectively multitasking across different machines and responsibilities.
• Algebra skills sufficient for basic calculations related to production and measurements.
• Basic computer skills for operating ERP systems, Magics software, and other digital tools used in production.
• Ability to perform all work in compliance with established quality and safety systems, policies, and procedures.
• Eligibility to work in an ITAR-regulated facility (such as holding U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status).

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• 1+ year of manufacturing or assembly experience is preferred.
• Machine shop or CNC experience is a plus.
• Experience in demanding, high-output environments such as commercial kitchens or high-volume manufacturing is beneficial.
• Basic understanding of blueprints and drawings is preferred.
• Familiarity with 3D CAD concepts is a plus.
• Experience with 3D printing, CNC machines, mechanical assembly, and production environments is advantageous.
• Ability to use hand tools safely and effectively for assembly and post-processing tasks.
• Understanding of powder handling, coating, or related processes is helpful.

Why Work Here?

You will join a growing organization with a clear long-term vision and strong opportunities for career development. The company expects to double in size over the next five years, creating potential pathways for promotion and advancement. Team members who convert to permanent employment can earn performance-based raises, and you will have the opportunity to receive hands-on training in 3D printing and additive manufacturing technologies. This environment supports skill growth, stability, and long-term career progression.

Work Environment

This role is based in an ITAR-regulated production facility in Gaithersburg, working primarily with industrial and desktop 3D printing technologies, including EOS SLS systems, Stratasys Fortus 450 and 900 printers, PostPro3D Vapor Smoother, Prusa i3Mk3s+ desktop FDM printers, and Stratasys Connex machines. You will work with powders, mechanical assembly tools, and standard hand tools in a shop setting that emphasizes cleanliness, organization, and adherence to safety and quality procedures. The position follows a first-shift schedule, Monday through Friday, with training on day shift; the first day starts at 10:00 a.m., and regular hours are approximately 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Dress is casual but practical, typically jeans or shorts, a plain shirt, and closed-toe shoes appropriate for a production environment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Gaithersburg, MD.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $23.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job

classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be

subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits

available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Gaithersburg,MD.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 7, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.