Overview
3D printing technicians manufacture products, including biomedical implants, car parts, aerospace components and fashion accessories.
Activities
- Take customer orders and give job quotes
- Advise customers on which materials to use
- Create digital models and prototypes based on customer requirements
- Operate 3D scanning and printing machinery
- Apply finishes to products
- Check quality
- Service and repair equipment
Organisations
You could work at a manufacturing plant, in a factory or at a research facility.
Workplace
This role is normally based indoors but can be in noisy environments.
Working Hours
Normally between the hours of 8am – 6pm.
Salary
Starting salary is around £18,000.
Qualifications
You’ll usually need at least 5 GCSEs at Grades 9 to 4 for this role. However, you may be able to start as an assistant in a 3D print workshop and take training on the job to become a technician. Skills and qualifications in model making, printing, technology or design will be useful.
You could also apply for an apprenticeship. If you have an EHCP you may be able to apply under the DfE exemption which allows the apprentice to use Entry Level 3 English and Maths qualifications. The apprentice would have to be competent enough to successfully achieve all other aspects of the apprenticeship requirements, become occupationally competent and achieve Entry Level 3 in English and Maths before the end of their apprenticeship.
College -You could take a course in creative design, model making or engineering. This could help you to find a job with a manufacturing or 3D printing company – most of these courses start at a level 2.