3D Shop Technician

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc; San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 33,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & Wellness plans

Paid time off (PTO) 120 hours

Life Insurance $25,000

HSA

401(k) with company match

9 paid holidays

Casual dress code

Job summary

ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA is seeking a 3D Shop Technician to support additive manufacturing operations. You will assist in material prep, equipment operation, and quality checks, ensuring parts are built on schedule and safely. You’ll maintain logs, help refine SOPs, and collaborate with engineers to improve processes.

The role emphasizes learning, teamwork, and adherence to safety protocols in a fast-paced aerospace manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical coursework is a plus.
• Basic understanding of manufacturing processes.
• Experience with CAD modeling software.
• Experience with 3D printing equipment.
• Eagerness to learn and strong work ethic.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Willingness to follow safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain additive manufacturing machines following safety and quality protocols.
• Prepare and handle materials for the manufacturing process.
• Utilize slicing software to prepare models for printing.
• Maintain the Additive Shop Log and build schedules.
• Ensure shop area is organized and compliant with SOPs.
• Collaborate with other departments to refine SOPs.
• Perform quality checks on manufactured parts and document results.
• Assist in maintenance and troubleshooting of AM equipment.
• Support production targets and safe operations.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Teamwork

Willingness to learn

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma

Technical coursework in AM

Tools

CAD software

3D printing equipment

Slicing software

Job description

Job Summary:

The 3D Shop Technician at ESAero will play a crucial role in our aerospace manufacturing division. You will assist in the operation of additive manufacturing (3D) equipment, ensuring materials are prepared, quality standards are met, parts are built and delivered on time, and safety protocols are followed. As part of a dynamic team, you will participate in creating cutting-edge aerospace technology, with opportunities for growth and development in this exciting field.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Work closely with experienced engineers and technicians to advance additive manufacturing processes, techniques, and equipment operation.

• Assist in the preparation and handling of additive manufacturing materials, ensuring they are ready for the manufacturing process.

• Operate and maintain additive manufacturing machines, following safety and quality protocols.

• Utilize various slicing software to prepare the models for additive manufacturing, ensuring accurate and efficient printing.

• Take responsibility for maintaining the Additive Shop Log, tracking requests, managing build schedules, and keeping proper documentation up to date and organized.

• Maintain and continuously improve the physical organization of the shop area

• Interface with other departments to develop and refine Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the various manufacturing processes.

• Perform quality checks on manufactured parts and assist in documentation and reporting of results.

• Assist in routine maintenance and troubleshooting of additive manufacturing equipment as needed.

• Collaborate with the other shop leads to ensure smooth workflow and assist in meeting production targets.

• Adhere to all safety guidelines and best practices to maintain a safe working environment.

• Perform additional duties and tasks as needed to support evolving project or operational needs.

Required Qualifications and Skills:

• High school diploma or equivalent (technical coursework a plus).

• Basic understanding of manufacturing processes.

• Experience with CAD modeling software

• Experience with 3D Printing equipment

• Eagerness to learn and a strong work ethic.

• Good communication and teamwork skills.

• Attention to detail and a commitment to quality.

• Willingness to follow safety protocols and procedures.

Desired Qualifications and Skills:

• Technical coursework or certification in additive manufacturing or related field.

• Previous internship or coursework related to manufacturing processes.

• Proficiency with 3D printing technology and software.

• Strong understanding of CAD software.

• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive attitude.

• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work in a fast-paced environment

Comprehensive Benefits & Perks:

• Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families.

• Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day off.

• Life Insurance: $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families.

• Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage.

• Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future.

• Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year.

• Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture.

• Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play!

Company Overview

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to the industry. We specialize in cutting-edge system design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community. Committed to excellence, on-time delivery, and continuous growth, we invest in infrastructure to expand our manufacturing and aftermarket capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of engineering services.

At ESAero, we don’t just build products, we engineer solutions that propel the aerospace industry forward.

**This position is fully on-site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA**

ESAero is an equal opportunity employer.

E-Verify participation required for employment.

All ESAero positions require US citizenship or US resident status.

Must be able to pass background check and drug test.

Hiring Range: $24 - $32/hr