3D printing technician
3D printing technicians make different products, such as medical implants, car parts, aircraft parts or fashion accessories.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As a 3D printing technician you might:
- make digital models and prototypes based on a customer's needs
- operate 3D scanning and printing machines
- clean, sand, polish or apply finishes to products
- work out how much it will cost to create parts or products
- inspect products to check quality and pack them for delivery
- service and repair equipment
Working environment
You could work at a manufacturing plant, in a factory or at a research facility.
Your working environment may be noisy.
You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.
Career path and progression
With experience you could:
- move into researching new 3D materials
- train to develop new 3D printing software and hardware
- specialise in a certain area of 3D printing, such as prosthetics or models
- train others in 3D printing techniques and methods
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- the ability to operate and control equipment
- analytical thinking skills
- the ability to work well with others
- the ability to analyse quality or performance
- knowledge of maths
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or a degree in a subject like:
- 3D design
- product design
- engineering
- materials science
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
More Information
You could take a course in creative design, model making or engineering to help you to find a job.
Specific courses you could take to become a 3D printing technician include:
- Level 2 Certificate in Computer Aided Design
- Level 3 Award in 3D Computer Aided Design
- Level 3 Diploma in Engineering Technology
- T Level in Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing
Entry requirements
You may need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and computing
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
More Information
Apprenticeships you could take to become a 3D printing technician include:
- Lean Manufacturing Operative Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
- Digital Engineering Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Engineering Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
More Information
You may be able to start as an assistant in a 3D printing workshop and train on the job to become a technician.
You'll find it helpful if you have some experience in manufacturing, model making, printing, technology or design.
Career tips
You could learn more about the basics of 3D printing. This might help you decide if you'd enjoy a career as a 3D printing technician.
Further information
You can find out more about 3D printing and design engineering from The Welding Institute.
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External links
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