Additive Manufacturing Engineer, Fused Deposition Modeling

Job Description:

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.

We have an exciting opportunity for a dynamic and proactive Plastics/Polymer Additive Manufacturing Engineer in our Additive Manufacturing (AM) department located in Poway, CA. This onsite position will support the Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM/FFF) AM production operation team at GA-ASI in design (DfAM), process and parts qualification, first article, production, tests, technology assessment and development.

Although it is part of the Aircraft Systems Manufacturing group, this position will be a key interface role between various other internal and external stakeholders such as Design engineering, Materials & Processes engineering, Programs management, and Supply Chains as serving as subject matter expert (SME) to help integrate plastics/polymer FDM/FFF AM into GA-ASI’s products and processes, as part of the Center of Excellence mission statement of the AM group. This position will provide the candidate with a critical role opportunity into the growth of AM at GA-ASI.

DUTES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Subject Matter Expert (SME) on industrial FDM/FFF AM and key interface with key engineering stakeholders such as design, materials, process and quality.
DfAM FDM/FFF SME and main point contact for internal stakeholders, to support design engineering’s learning and teaching of DfAM specific to FDM/FFF AM, as well as supporting software tool assessment and testing to support manufacturing and engineering AM efforts.
Support with plastics/polymer AM suppliers/contract manufacturers qualification, relationships and visits
Responsible for industrial production-focused AM process development, qualification, implementation, and continuous improvement to enhance Quality / Yield, reduce Cost, and improve Productivity / Schedule.
Initiate and lead lean manufacturing process improvement projects.
Support and lead the planning and implementation of AM (incl. post-processing) equipment and associated processes and safety.
Identify and assist in addressing safety issues on the manufacturing floor.
Support manufacturing production planning and coordination, execution and operations process development.
Provide production support to AM operation team (technicians and production lead).
Document manufacturing processes and assembly work instructions in conjunction with T&O Planning.
Assist and drive AM quality and inspection process improvement related to plastics AM.
Support with internal needs for AM CAD designs to assist with AM group operations.
Disposition non-conforming parts, identify root cause analysis, and implement corrective and/or preventive action to reduce scrap and rework.
FDM/FFF AM-related project plan development and management.
Participation in internal and external AM group representation (e.g. conferences, collaboration groups, executive management reviews, etc.)
Collaborate with Design Engineering during design release, application development, prototyping and first article manufacturing of FDM/FFF components.
Support and lead technology and material exploration, assessment and incubation.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Qualifications:

Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience as follows; four or more years of experience with a bachelors degree or two or more years of experience with a masters degree. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
Extensive experience with Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM/FFF) AM technologies in a production industrial environment. Direct experience with Stratasys production printers and their associated file preparation software is highly desired.
Experience in Aviation/Aerospace/Unmanned Aerial Systems industry is desired, but not necessary.
Experience with AM applications specific to Aviation/Aerospace/Unmanned Aerial Systems is desired, but not necessary.
Experience with the entire FDM/FFF AM part production workflow from business considerations, design release and review, pre-print considerations and planning (incl. support strategy, file preparations, etc.), printing, post-processing, qualification, and inspection process.
Direct experience with FDM/FFF-associated post-processing equipment and safety best practices and PPE.
Working knowledge of other adjacent FDM/FFF and/or polymer AM technologies, and their associated characteristics and applicability/use cases.
Expertise in Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM), specifically related to FDM/FFF AM. Ability to demonstrate/provide examples of designs achieved. This assumes proficiency with at least one major CAD platform (e.g. Siemens Nx, PTC CREO, CATIA, ProE, etc.)
Experience with major FDM/FFF-related AM suppliers (service bureaus, contract manufacturers, materials and hardware providers, software providers, etc.)
Background knowledge of conventional manufacturing processes (complementary to FDM/FFF AM, such as CNC machining, bonding, coating, plating, infiltrating, painting, injection molding, etc.) is a plus.
Clearly and effectively communicate both verbally and in written form to both technical and non-technical audiences, especially regarding manufacturing processes, engineering issues and proposed changes, and quality issues and dispositions.
Ability to form and foster rich AM networking and keep engaged.
Experience with Microsoft Office PowerPoint, Project, Excel and Visio.
Experience with SAP systems is an advantage.
Must be able to work both independently and in a team environment.
Must be self-driven, like to innovate, and want to learn more and more.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance.
Ability to influence others, develop a plan and rally a team around it, lead small team.
Able to work extended hours and travel occasionally as required.

Job Ident #: 48614BR

Company Details

General Atomics

3550 General Atomics Court
San Diego, California 92121 USA
www.ga-careers.com

General Atomics, based in San Diego, CA, develops advanced technology solutions for government and commercial applications. Privately owned and vertically integrated, we have the freedom to invest in the most innovative technologies, and the resources...

Benefits:
General Atomics is among the leading technology employers. We offer a challenging and rewarding work environment, competitive salaries, and a comprehensive benefits package.

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Job Info

Location

Poway, California, United States

Type

Permanent

Salary Range

$81,080 - $141,650

Company Details

General Atomics

3550 General Atomics Court
San Diego, California 92121 USA
www.ga-careers.com