The additive manufacturing (AM) industry, while rapidly advancing, still grapples with inconsistencies in job titles and responsibilities, creating confusion for those pursuing careers in this field. Understanding the potential career pathways for machine operators and AM technicians can help professionals navigate their growth, and this guide aims to provide clarity on how to advance in the additive manufacturing industry.
Entry-Level Roles: AM Technicians and Operators
For those entering the additive manufacturing industry, the typical starting positions are AM technicians or machine operators. These roles represent the new skilled trade in advanced manufacturing, requiring specific training in the technology being operated.
An AM technician’s responsibilities often include using AM software like Magics, optimizing STL files for printing, loading material into machines, and monitoring prints during production. On the other hand, machine operators may focus more on the hands-on aspects of running and maintaining the machinery.
Career Progression: From Technician to Engineer
The next step up from an AM technician is typically the role of an AM engineer. This position often requires an engineering degree and involves running machines, engaging in process development, and possessing a deeper understanding of materials. While AM technicians focus on the operation and immediate technical aspects of the printing process, AM engineers take on more complex tasks, such as improving processes and developing new applications for the technology.
Influences on Career Growth: Background and Employer Type
Career trajectories in the additive manufacturing industry are influenced by various factors, including one’s background and the type of employer. Professionals who start as AM technicians or operators come from diverse educational and work backgrounds, which can affect how they grow within their roles. Investing in yourself—through training, upskilling, and taking on additional responsibilities—is crucial for career advancement.
For instance, an AM technician working at an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) might logically progress to a Field Service Engineer role, which comes with a pay increase, more customer interaction, and travel opportunities. Conversely, a technician at a service bureau or contract manufacturer might aim to become an AM engineer within their organization. To achieve this, it’s essential to inquire about the specific requirements for promotion and understand the progression path within the company.
Promotion Challenges: Small vs. Large Companies
The size of the company also plays a role in career progression. Smaller companies may be more open to promoting from within, offering opportunities for a technician to move up to a Level 1 AM engineer with the right training and responsibilities. However, in larger organizations, roles and responsibilities are often more predefined, making it harder to advance without formal qualifications or significant experience.
If you find yourself struggling to get buy-in for an internal progression pathway, assess the type of employer you’re working for. Do they prioritize internal development? Is there a need for a lead technician, AM engineer, or field service engineer? Identifying these factors can help you better navigate your career progression.
Investing in Yourself: Key to Advancement
To get ahead in your career, it’s essential to invest in yourself. Take on new responsibilities and actively seek ways to demonstrate your willingness to do more and develop your skills. For example, if your company needs someone to handle machine maintenance or clean powders, be proactive in taking on these tasks. Additionally, pursue certifications or courses that will help you upskill and increase your value to the company.
If opportunities for advancement seem limited at your current employer, consider expanding your expertise by learning to operate a broader range of machines or mastering different processes. This diversification of skills can enhance your CV and make you more attractive to other employers.
When seeking your next opportunity, look for companies that offer multiple tiers within their teams. Larger organizations typically run more machines and processes, providing more opportunities to increase your skills, technologies, and knowledge, which can help you grow your future career prospects.
For Employers: Retaining and Developing Your Technicians and Operators
As the additive manufacturing industry faces a shortage of skilled machine operators and technicians, it’s crucial for employers to invest in their teams to retain them. Building a progression plan that identifies key success metrics for your technicians and operators can significantly enhance job satisfaction, loyalty, and productivity.
Here’s how employers can create an effective progression plan:
Define Success Metrics: Establish clear benchmarks for the first 1-3 years of employment. For example, if a technician has been punctual, enthusiastic, and met all training goals within the first six months, consider rewarding them with additional training, such as a course on reading STL files.
Upskill Your Team: Provide certifications for health and safety or other skills that your team may be lacking. The more skills your technicians have, the more valuable they are to your company.
Invest in Your Employees: Retaining your technicians by investing in their development not only increases their loyalty but also boosts their productivity. For example, sending them to industry events like AMUG or providing specialized training can significantly enhance their expertise.
Personal Connection: Regularly connect with your team on a personal level, ensuring they feel valued and understood. Monthly progress meetings can help employees understand where they stand in their progression and what steps they need to take to move forward.
Plan for the Future: Have a clear plan for what comes next after an employee has outgrown their current role. Could they be promoted to a lead technician or an AM engineer? While this plan should be flexible and may change depending on the company’s needs or the individual’s performance, it provides a roadmap that supports your team’s progression.
For Job Seekers: Evaluating Career Progression Opportunities
If you’re interviewing for a new position, it’s important to ask about the company’s progression plans for technicians. Understanding what the progression options are within the business can help you make an informed decision about your future with that employer.
Conclusion
Navigating a career in additive manufacturing requires a combination of self-investment, understanding the company culture, and leveraging opportunities for growth. Whether you’re an employee looking to advance or an employer seeking to retain talent, the key to success lies in ongoing development, clear communication, and strategic planning. By taking these steps, machine operators and technicians can carve out a rewarding career path in this dynamic and innovative industry.
