Additive Manufacturing Development Engineer - job 1 of 2

As an Additive Manufacturing Development Engineer at Freeform, you’ll primarily be responsible for driving the entire development cycle of print production. This includes providing vital Design for Additive Manufacturing (DFAM) feedback, preparing print files, overseeing the printing process, and ensuring post-processing and quality control. You'll also need to analyze data to drive continuous improvements and interface with external customers to elevate their design processes.

To be a strong candidate for the Additive Manufacturing Development Engineer role at Freeform, you need a Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering from an accredited program. Hands-on design experience from previous internships or engineering clubs is essential. Familiarity with metal 3D printing and strong mechanical engineering fundamentals can be a plus, as well as a team-oriented mindset and excellent communication skills.

Freeform deeply values continuous learning and personal growth. As an Additive Manufacturing Development Engineer, you will have the chance to work closely with pioneers in the field, gaining insights and feedback on your work. Additionally, the inclusive and diverse culture encourages collaboration, learning opportunities, and regular team-building events that can further enhance your skills and career trajectory.

While prior experience in metal 3D printing is advantageous, it is not strictly necessary. At Freeform, we prioritize a thorough understanding of mechanical engineering principles and a first-principles approach to problem-solving. If you are passionate about additive manufacturing and have relevant experience in related fields, you’re still encouraged to apply.

The work environment at Freeform is collaborative, vibrant, and designed to foster innovation. You will be part of a state-of-the-art facility in Los Angeles, complete with large open spaces that promote teamwork and creativity. Enjoy flexible working hours, casual dress, and a variety of catered meals to keep you energized and engaged throughout the day.

When answering this question, focus on specific projects where you applied hands-on design skills. Mention any relevant internships or engineering club experiences where you've worked with CAD software or developed prototypes. Highlight your problem-solving approach and any successes achieved, emphasizing your ability to take ideas from concept to reality.

Here, it’s crucial to demonstrate your methodical approach to problem-solving. Discuss how you employ first-principles thinking to dissect complex issues into manageable components, allowing for analysis and precise solutions. Provide an example that showcases your systematic process, from identifying a problem to testing and implementing solutions.

In your response, convey your understanding of DFAM as a critical aspect of the additive manufacturing process. Illustrate how it influences the design stage to optimize the efficiency, performance, and manufacturability of components. Share specific examples of how you've applied DFAM principles in past projects.

Use this opportunity to showcase your teamwork skills. Discuss a particular project where collaboration was key, detailing how you worked with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to achieve common goals. Highlight your communication strategies and any ways in which you overcame challenges together.

When addressing this question, discuss current trends such as automation in additive manufacturing, the expansion of materials used, or advancements in hybrid manufacturing approaches. Show your awareness of industry changes and how they might affect company operations, especially in relation to Freeform's innovative approach.

Discuss the importance of quality control in additive manufacturing, detailing your strategies for monitoring and ensuring the quality of printed parts. Mention any tools or techniques you’re familiar with for quality analysis and improvement, as well as your experience in driving continuous improvements based on data analysis.

To answer this, emphasize your comfort with collecting and analyzing in-situ data during the manufacturing process. Provide specific examples where your analysis led to actionable insights or significant improvements in either design or production efficiency.

In your response, outline the resources you use to stay informed. This could include industry publications, online forums, webinars, and attending trade shows or workshops. Demonstrating your commitment to continued professional development and staying at the forefront of the field is crucial.

This is your chance to express genuine enthusiasm. Mention specific aspects of Freeform's mission and innovative technology that resonate with you, and how you believe your skills and interests align perfectly with the company's goals. Highlight your desire to play a role in transforming the manufacturing sector through additive technologies.

Explain your proficiency with CAD software and how it has been an essential tool in your engineering toolkit. Discuss specific projects where you’ve used CAD for designs intended for 3D printing, emphasizing any technical challenges you faced and how you overcame them to achieve accurate output.