Additive Manufacturing / 3D Printing Lab Technician

KBR - Houston, TX

Full-time - Entry Level

Houston, TX

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

KBR is seeking a 3D Printing Lab Technician to support our Space Suit for KBR's Science and Space division. The technician will work on a collaborative team supporting our 3D printing operations, collaborating with our production and engineering teams, and ensuring the efficient functioning of our 3D printing lab. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of 3D printing technologies, proficiency in CAD software, and a keen eye for detail. In this role, you will collaborate closely with designers and engineers to understand project requirements and objectives. You will utilize CAD software to create and modify 3D models, ensuring accuracy and feasibility for printing. Operating and maintaining 3D printers will be a key responsibility, including setup, calibration, and troubleshooting. You will conduct quality control checks on printed objects to verify adherence to specifications and standards, manage inventory of 3D printing materials and supplies, and maintain cleanliness and organization within the 3D printing lab. Staying informed about advancements in 3D printing technologies and techniques is essential, as you will be expected to propose innovative solutions to improve processes. Additionally, you will provide training and guidance to team members on 3D printing best practices and safety protocols, and troubleshoot technical issues with 3D printers, such as software errors, filament jams, and print failures.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with designers and engineers to understand project requirements and objectives.
• Utilize CAD software to create and modify 3D models, ensuring accuracy and feasibility for printing.
• Operate and maintain 3D printers, including setup, calibration, and troubleshooting.
• Conduct quality control checks on printed objects to verify adherence to specifications and standards.
• Manage inventory of 3D printing materials and supplies, ensuring adequate stock levels.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization within the 3D printing lab, including equipment upkeep and workspace tidiness.
• Stay informed about advancements in 3D printing technologies and techniques, and propose innovative solutions to improve processes.
• Provide training and guidance to team members on 3D printing best practices and safety protocols.
• Troubleshoot technical issues with 3D printers, such as software errors, filament jams, and print failures.

Requirements

• Must have a bachelor's degree in the field of design, engineering, or a related field.
• Must have 2 years of recent and related work experience, or 5 years of relevant work experience in lieu of a degree.
• Proven experience working with 3D printing technologies and CAD software.
• Strong proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for 3D modeling and design.
• Demonstrated ability to operate and maintain various types of 3D printers (e.g., FDM, SLA, SLS).
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Effective communication and collaboration abilities, with a track record of working in multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to safety protocols and guidelines for working in a laboratory setting.

Nice-to-haves

• Familiarity with post-processing techniques for 3D printed objects (e.g., sanding, painting, assembly) is a plus.
• Experience using PDM is preferred.
• Aerospace experience preferred.

Benefits

• 401(k)
• AD&D insurance
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Military leave
• Paid time off