Additive Manufacturing Technician

Company Overview: Nikon AM Synergy Inc. is a cutting-edge provider of metal additive manufacturing (AM) solutions, specializing in the aerospace, defense (ultra-secure), and space industries. We focus on the manufacture and certification of production flight hardware, aiming to drive industry growth through the integration of AM technology. As a part of the Nikon Advanced Manufacturing Ecosystem, we leverage our engineering and manufacturing capabilities, alongside Nikon SLM Solutions and organic AM solutions, to push the boundaries of additive manufacturing in industry. Position Overview The Additive Manufacturing Technician will support the hands-on fabrication of additively manufactured flight hardware. Following established procedures, work instructions, and sequences of operations, the Additive Manufacturing Technician will operate, maintain, and monitor additive manufacturing machinery, and handle powder. Reports to: Senior Operations Manager Responsibilities: Ensure additive manufacturing processes meet or exceed internal, customer, and industry quality requirements. Perform a variety of duties pertaining to the machine set up, calibration, and maintenance of additive machines and supporting equipment. Build support removal. Safely handle powder within the additive production process. Participate in and/or lead problem-solving and continuous improvement opportunities. Maintain a clean and safe work environment, particularly regarding powder and chemical usage. Job Duties Operate additive machines, such as: EOS M290, EOS M4K, SLM 280, SLM NXG Perform setup, operation, and daily maintenance on additive manufacturing machines. Utilize precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, and dial indicators. Propose innovative technologies and ideas to enhance additive manufacturing solutions. Proficiently use hand, power, and pneumatic tools for various tasks. Handle powder, including sieving, sampling, loading, and cleaning. Conduct self-inspection of parts/components with keen attention to detail. Monitor builds according to a flexible schedule. Ensure traceability of all powder and parts. Document test procedures and results, suggesting improvements to manufacturing and engineering processes. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop manufacturing solutions and address issues. Uphold compliance with customer and industry quality standards and safety regulations related to powder handling. Contribute to company-wide implementation of operational policies and procedures. Skills Proficiency with various pneumatic and hand tools. Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, and cost optimization techniques in additive manufacturing. Familiarity with machines and tools used in additive manufacturing operations, including EOS and SLM equipment. Ability to assess performance and implement improvements. Strong organizational skills for meticulous planning and prioritization. Excellent written and oral communication skills, including proficiency in MS SharePoint and MS Office. Education / Experience / General Requirements PREFERRED: Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution PREFERRED: 2 years of experience with Additive Manufacturing or similar manufacturing environment REQUIRED: Able to work flexible hours, according to the schedule of the machine builds REQUIRED: Compliant with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) which requires U.S. person status (ITAR defines “U.S. Person” as a U.S. Citizen or U.S. Permanent Resident REQUIRED: Obtain and maintain security clearance. Work Environment and Safety Requirements The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounter while performing the essential functions of the job. Properly wear personal protective gear throughout the day, including gloves, hearing protection, eye protection, protective footwear, and respirators. Acquire proficiency in technical material related to additive manufacturing and machine maintenance. Maintain a stationary position for up to three hours as needed. Operate, prepare, inspect, manipulate, and position parts, tooling, and machinery effectively. Utilize digital applications on interfaces like tablets or smartphones proficiently. Occasionally ascend/descend ladders. Adjust shelving, access stacked powder canisters, and store tooling by positioning oneself (standing, kneeling, crouching, or crawling). Communicate with teammates and internal stakeholders regularly regarding daily updates, hazard concerns, questions, and issues. Detect non-conformances, conduct inspections of additively manufactured parts and machinery, assess the manufacturing process for flaws and failed builds, estimate powder quantities during filling, and adjust machines through GUI interfaces. Move, position, lift, and stack parts weighing up to 50 pounds on a daily basis. Regularly push carts, RUWAC vacuums, and other machinery throughout the facility.