Trainee 3D Printing & Digital Manufacturing Technician

UPE Engineering Ltd; Bedford; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

UPE Engineering Ltd seeks a bright, practical individual to become a Trainee 3D Printing & Digital Manufacturing Technician. No prior experience required; you will be trained to operate and maintain our fleet of 3D printers and to produce high-quality components in a hands-on production environment.

As you develop, you will progress into 3D printing software, machine optimisation, laser engraving and CAD modelling, with the goal of becoming a skilled digital manufacturing technician and

Qualifications

• No previous experience required; full training provided.
• Degree or equivalent in engineering or related subject is advantageous.
• Experience with CAD software and 3D printing is beneficial.
• Curious, quick learner with practical mindset.
• Proactive, detail-oriented and problem-solving mindset.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain our fleet of 3D printers.
• Load filament and monitor print quality.
• Progress to software, laser engraving, and CAD modelling tasks.
• Assist with laser engraving and CAD development.
• Ensure production area is clean and organised.

Skills

3D printing

CAD modelling

Digital manufacturing

Problem solving

Curious & quick learner

Education

Engineering qualification (degree/HNC/HND/A‑level)

Tools

Fusion 360

SolidWorks

Job description

UPE Engineering Ltd is an AS9100-certified CNC machining specialist, established in 2001, delivering high-precision, complex components for demanding industries including aerospace, medical, motorsport and leisure. From one-off prototypes through to full production runs, we combine advanced manufacturing technology, technical expertise and a strong focus on quality to deliver consistently high standards.

At UPE, we are constantly looking to diversify, develop and embrace new technologies. As part of our continued growth, we have recently expanded into a new area of digital manufacturing with the introduction of a brand-new fleet of 3D printers, alongside two laser engraving machines.

This has created an exciting new full-time opportunity for someone to take ownership of this area of the business. The role is designed for someone who is keen to learn, technically minded and wants to develop their skills, with the opportunity to progress from hands-on 3D printing and production into machine optimisation, software, laser engraving and CAD modelling.

This is a chance to join UPE at the beginning of an exciting new area of development and grow with it as it evolves.

Role Description

We are looking for a bright, practical and technically minded individual to join our growing team as a Trainee 3D Printing & Digital Manufacturing Technician.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone at the beginning of their career who has a genuine interest in 3D printing, technology, engineering, CAD and digital manufacturing and wants to develop their skills in a hands-on production environment.

You do not need previous experience. We are looking for someone who is keen to learn, picks things up quickly and enjoys understanding how things work.

You will initially be trained to operate and maintain our fleet of 3D printers, taking responsibility for the day-to-day running of the machines and the production of our 3D printed products.

As your knowledge develops, the role will progress into 3D printing software, machine optimisation, laser engraving and CAD modelling, giving you the opportunity to develop into a highly skilled digital manufacturing technician.

Your Development

The role is designed around progression. You will initially learn the practical side of 3D printing before gradually taking on more technical responsibility.

You will be trained to:

Stage 1 – 3D Printing & Production

• Learn our fleet of 3D printers inside and out.
• Load and change filament and prepare machines for production.
• Load and unload print beds.
• Monitor machines and print quality throughout production.
• Identify and troubleshoot failed prints and machine errors.Carry out routine cleaning and maintenance.
• Learn how to replace printer components and consumable parts.
• Assemble, inspect and pack finished products.
• Understand the different materials, print settings and applications used across our products.

Stage 2 – Software & Machine Optimisation

• Develop a strong understanding of the printing software and workflow.
• Learn how to prepare, modify and optimise print files.
• Understand different print settings and how they affect quality, strength and production time.
• Improve print efficiency and machine utilisation.
• Troubleshoot more complex printing and software issues.
• Take increasing responsibility for planning and managing production across the printer fleet.

Stage 3 – Laser Engraving

• Learn to operate our two laser engraving machines to their full capability.
• Learn machine setup, job preparation and operating procedures.
• Understand different materials, settings and engraving techniques.
• Troubleshoot and resolve machine and engraving issues.
• Carry out routine maintenance and upkeep.
• Develop the ability to independently manage laser engraving production.

Stage 4 – CAD & Digital Manufacturing

• Learn to create and modify 3D models for manufacture.
• Understand design considerations for 3D printing and other digital manufacturing processes.
• Take designs from concept through to finished physical product.
• Develop an understanding of how CAD, slicing software and 3D printing work together.
• Eventually take responsibility for developing and improving products and manufacturing processes.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities:

Your initial day-to-day role will be very hands-on and production focused. This will include:

• Running and monitoring the 3D printer fleet.
• Loading and unloading printers throughout the day.
• Managing filament and changing materials as required.
• Checking print quality and resolving issues.
• Carrying out routine machine maintenance.
• Changing printer components when required.
• Removing and finishing printed parts.
• Assembling products and components.
• Quality checking finished products.
• Packing completed products ready for dispatch.
• Keeping the production area clean, organised and efficient.
• Assisting with stock control of filament, components and packaging.
• Operating the laser engraving machines as your training progresses.
• Learning and taking ownership of the equipment and processes within your area.

Who We're Looking For

No previous experience is required.

This role would suit someone who is:

• At the beginning of their career and looking for a practical, technical role.
• A recent graduate, college leaver, apprentice or someone looking for their first role in engineering/manufacturing.
• Naturally curious and enjoys understanding how things work.
• A quick learner who can take information on board and apply it independently.
• Practical and hands-on.
• Technically minded and comfortable using computers and software.
• Interested in 3D printing, CAD, engineering, technology or product development.
• Good at problem solving and able to think logically when something goes wrong.
• Detail-oriented and takes pride in producing good-quality work.
• Proactive and willing to learn.
• Looking for a role where they can develop and progress.

Experience & Qualifications

Previous experience is not essential and full training will be provided.

The following would be advantageous but are not required:

• Degree, HNC/HND, A-Level, T-Level, BTEC or equivalent in engineering, design, manufacturing, product design, technology or a related subject.
• Experience using CAD software.
• Experience with 3D printing.
• Experience with laser engraving or similar digital manufacturing equipment.
• Basic understanding of engineering or manufacturing.
• Experience using software such as Fusion 360, SolidWorks or similar CAD packages.

Progression

This is not intended to be a role where you simply operate machines every day.

The aim is to develop the successful candidate into a highly capable digital manufacturing specialist who understands the equipment, software and processes from start to finish.

As your skills develop, there will be opportunities to take on increasing responsibility across:

We are looking for someone who wants to learn the machines inside out, become the go‑to person for the equipment and continue developing their technical skills and responsibilities within the business.