Here is the salary breakdown for Additive Manufacturing (AM) in 2024–2025, formatted without tables.
Executive Summary
The AM industry pays competitively due to the specialized nature of the work.
• Entry-Level / Technicians: Typically earn between $45,000 – $65,000.
• Engineers: Generally range from $85,000 – $120,000.
• Specialized R&D / Management: Can command $130,000 – $170,000+.
1. Salary Breakdown by Role
Operations & Technical Support
These roles involve running machines, post-processing parts, and maintaining hardware.
• 3D Printing Technician: Average $52,000 (Range: $40k – $65k).
• AM Machine Operator: Average $48,000 (Range: $38k – $58k).
• Post-Processing Specialist: Average $45,000 (Range: $35k – $55k).
• Field Service Engineer: Average $78,000 (Range: $65k – $95k).
• Note: Technicians in metal AM or aerospace often earn 20–30% above these averages.
Engineering & Design
These roles focus on "Design for Additive Manufacturing" (DfAM) and application development.
• Design Engineer (DfAM): Average $95,000 (Range: $80k – $125k).
• AM Engineer: Average $91,000 (Range: $75k – $115k).
• Mechanical Engineer (AM Focus): Average $89,000 (Range: $75k – $110k).
• Application Engineer: Average $88,000 (Range: $70k – $110k).
R&D and Specialized Roles
These positions usually require advanced degrees (Master’s/PhD) or niche software skills.
• AM Software Engineer: Average $145,000 (Range: $120k – $180k+).
• Materials Scientist (AM): Average $124,000 (Range: $95k – $165k).
• Process Engineer (R&D): Average $105,000 (Range: $85k – $135k).
Business & Management
• Director of Additive Mfg: Average $165,000+ (Range: $140k – $220k+).
• Regional Sales Manager: Average $125,000 (Range: $90k – $160k + Commission).
• AM Program Manager: Average $115,000 (Range: $95k – $145k).
2. Key Factors Influencing Salary
• Industry Sector:
• Aerospace & Defense: The highest payer (e.g., SpaceX, Lockheed Martin). Software engineers in this sector can earn upwards of $170k.
• Medical Devices: Also pays a premium due to FDA regulatory complexity.
• Automotive: Generally aligns with standard manufacturing engineering rates.
• Location:
• High Cost of Living (CA, MA): Expect salaries 20–30% higher in hubs like the Bay Area or Boston.
• Mid-Tier (TX, OH, IL): Standard ranges apply in manufacturing hubs like Austin, Chicago, and Ohio.
• Skills & Education:
• Software: Proficiency in tools like nTopology, Magics, or generative design is a major salary lever.
• Degrees: A Master’s degree typically adds $10k–$20k to starting engineering offers.
