Operator - Additive Manufacturing

CoAspire; United States; On-site; USD 48,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision benefits

401(k) with company match

Paid time off & holidays

Job summary

CoAspire, a defense manufacturing leader in Northern Virginia, is hiring an operator for metal additive manufacturing. You will set up machines, manage metal powder, perform builds, and help with post-processing in a regulated environment.

Ideal candidates have 1–3 years of manufacturing experience, strong mechanical aptitude, and a commitment to safety and quality. Some flexibility with shifts and ability to lift up to 50 lbs is required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; technical training or associate degree preferred.
• 1–3 years hands-on experience in manufacturing/production.
• Ability to follow detailed work instructions and SOPs.
• Comfortable using computer interfaces for machine operation and data entry.

Responsibilities

• Set up, calibrate, and operate additive manufacturing machines per SOPs.
• Load build plates and metal powder with contamination control and traceability.
• Monitor builds, respond to alarms, troubleshoot, and adjust parameters as needed.
• Perform post-build tasks: depowdering, support removal, cleaning, finishing.
• Maintain production records including material usage and process data.
• Follow safety protocols for metal powder handling and PPE; ensure workspace cleanliness.

Skills

Additive manufacturing

Machine operation

Quality inspection

Safety compliance

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or GED

Technical training or associate degree in manufacturing

Tools

MES Software

ERP Software

Job description

CoAspire (https://www.coaspire.com) is a cutting-edge defense manufacturing leader in Northern Virginia, specializing in the precision assembly of advanced weapons systems. With over twelve years of a legacy of innovation, we're at the forefront of building reliable, affordable mass weapons that protect and empower our nation’s warfighters. Our tight-knit team thrives in a collaborative environment where safety, quality, and work-life balance come first. Join us to make a tangible impact on mission-critical technology!

Position: You will operate and support metal-based additive manufacturing equipment to produce high-quality components for our weapons platforms. Working as part of the production team, you will handle machine setup, build execution, powder management, post-processing, and basic quality checks while following strict safety and process standards in a regulated defense manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities:

• Set up, calibrate, and operate additive manufacturing machines according to work instructions and standard operating procedures.
• Prepare builds by loading build plates, handling and loading metal feedstock/powder (with full attention to contamination control, traceability, approval, and safe storage), uploading build files, and verifying parameters.
• Monitor the full build process, respond to machine alarms or anomalies, perform basic troubleshooting, and make approved adjustments to maintain quality and minimize downtime.
• Perform post-build activities including part removal, depowdering, support removal, cleaning, and basic finishing operations.
• Conduct routine machine maintenance, cleaning, and daily checks to ensure equipment readiness and a safe, organized workspace.
• Inspect parts for visual and dimensional quality using basic measurement tools; document results and elevate any deviations.
• Maintain accurate production records, including process parameters, material usage, build logs, and quality data.
• Follow all safety protocols, especially those related to metal powder handling, PPE, ventilation, and hazardous material procedures.
• Support continuous improvement by identifying opportunities to enhance process efficiency, reduce scrap, or improve workflow.
• Collaborate with technicians, supervisors, and engineering to meet production schedules and quality requirements.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent; technical training or associate degree in manufacturing, machining, or related field preferred.
• 1–3 years of hands‑on experience in a manufacturing, machining, or production environment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and ability to follow detailed work instructions and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Comfortable working with computer interfaces for machine operation and data entry.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 lbs regularly; work in a production environment that may require shift flexibility.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, cleanliness, and quality standards.
• U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain/maintain a Secret security clearance.
• Excellent teamwork, communication, and problem‑solving skills in a fast‑paced setting.

Desired Skills:

• Prior experience with metal additive manufacturing processes (e.g., powder‑bed fusion or similar metal AM technologies).
• Familiarity with powder handling, depowdering equipment, or post‑processing techniques.
• Experience using precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, etc.) and basic inspection methods.
• Knowledge of manufacturing execution systems (MES), ERP software, or production documentation practices.
• Previous work in a defense, aerospace, or regulated manufacturing environment.

What We Offer:

Beyond competitive pay, we offer:

• Full benefits from day one: medical, dental and vision
• 401(k) with generous company match and immediate vesting
• PTO and Federal holidays

This position pays $35.00-$41.00 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.