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3d Printing Skills: Example Usage on Resumes, Skill Set & Top Keywords in 2024

Including 3D printing expertise on your resume signals to recruiters that you are skilled in current technological innovations and demonstrates your ability to adapt to new tools and processes. Dive into our guide for inspiration on how to effectively integrate this skill into your resume, exploring synonyms and alternative phrasings to stand out to potential employers.

Pub: 11/27/2019
Upd: 5/15/2024
8 min read
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3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is the skill of creating three-dimensional objects from a digital file. By mastering the techniques and software involved in 3D printing, an individual can fabricate objects by layering materials such as plastic, metal, or concrete. This skill demonstrates an ability to work with cutting-edge technology and can add a modern and innovative twist to a resume. It shows potential employers that you are familiar with current manufacturing methods and are capable of turning concepts into tangible items.

However, simply listing "3D printing" on your resume might not fully convey your expertise to a potential employer. It might suggest a passing familiarity rather than a deep, hands-on experience. To truly strengthen your resume, it is better to focus on specific projects or applications where you've utilized 3D printing and to highlight the results or value delivered by your work. By doing this, you transform a generic skill into a clear demonstration of your problem-solving capabilities and practical experience.

In this article, you will learn:

  • Examples of how to effectively showcase your 3D printing experience on your resume.
  • Common mistakes to avoid when listing 3D printing as a skill on your resume.
  • Alternative words and phrases to describe your 3D printing expertise more precisely.

Misusage of 3d printing on resumes

Incorporating your 3D printing skill set on your resume can showcase your technical expertise, but misuse or overstatement in different resume sections can backfire, making you appear unprofessional or out of touch with the actual demands of the job. A precise and relevant presentation of your abilities is vital to make a strong impression on potential employers, ensuring that you stand out for the right reasons. Here are three common missteps to avoid:

  • In the summary section, avoid vague declarations such as "3D printing enthusiast with a passion for creating anything imaginable."
  • Within the experience section, steer clear of irrelevant job responsibilities, for example, "Managed office print station, occasionally using 3D printing for personal projects."
  • When listing achievements, don't overstate your impact or claim ownership of team efforts; a misleading entry could be "Solely revolutionized the company's production process through 3D printing, reducing costs by 70%."

How to demonstrate 3d printing skills on your resume

  • List specific 3D printing technologies you've worked with such as FDM, SLA, or SLS.
  • Highlight projects that required design and printing of complex geometries or functional prototypes.
  • Detail any software expertise relevant to 3D modeling and slicing, like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or Cura.
  • Include successful outcomes from printed designs, such as efficiency improvements or problem-solving achievements.
  • Mention any experience with post-processing techniques like sanding, painting, or assembly of printed parts.

Example 1: Demonstrate 3d printing in the experience section

Experience
3D Printing Specialist
Innovatech 3D Solutions
Boston, MA
  • Developed complex 3D printing schematics for over 40 custom client projects, enhancing overall client satisfaction by 25%.
  • Oversaw the 3D printing of prototypes that reduced material costs by 15% through the use of efficient design and printing techniques.
  • Facilitated workshops on 3D printing technologies for new employees, leading to a 30% decrease in onboarding time.
  • Collaborated on a team that received a company excellence award for streamlining production processes, resulting in a 10% increase in project turnaround time.
Lead 3D Print Technician
Design Dynamics
Denver, CO
  • Guided a team of 5 in the creation of intricate 3D models, leading to the company's breakthrough in the medical prosthetics market.
  • Pioneered a new filament recycling system, reducing waste by 20% and promoting sustainable 3D printing practices.
  • Enhanced client prototypes’ print resolution by innovating with new software settings, elevating product quality.
3D Print Technician
ProtoCreate
Seattle, WA
  • Operated and maintained ten industrial-grade 3D printers, achieving a 98% uptime and maximizing production capacity.
  • Implemented a quality control system for 3D printed parts, leading to a 40% reduction in print errors.
  • Trained 15+ staff members on 3D printer operations, promoting knowledge sharing and team proficiency.
RIGHT
  • This experience section clearly shows a progression of skills and responsibilities in 3D printing, providing a timeline of professional growth.
  • Each bullet point delivers specific and measurable outcomes that directly relate to the positions held, illustrating the impact the applicant had at each company.
  • Project-specific details demonstrate the candidate's hands-on experience, adding credibility to their expertise in 3D printing.
  • Descriptions avoid overused jargon, focusing instead on clear, quantifiable achievements that demonstrate value to potential employers.

Example 2: Demonstrate 3d printing in the summary section

Summary
With over four years of experience in 3D printing and a passion for creative solution development, I have a proven track record of producing high-fidelity prototypes that streamline product development processes. My expertise extends to operating a range of 3D printers, mastering CAD/CAM software, and applying critical problem-solving skills to overcome design challenges. A notable accomplishment includes leading a project that achieved a 20% reduction in material costs through innovative design optimization.
RIGHT
  • The summary clearly states the applicant's years of experience and passion for their work, immediately showing dedication and expertise in 3D printing.
  • Technical skills such as proficiency with CAD/CAM software and the operation of various 3D printers are mentioned, directly indicating capability.
  • The summary highlights a significant career achievement, showcasing the ability to make impactful contributions through design optimizations and cost savings.
  • By focusing on specific outcomes and personal involvement in a project, the summary avoids vague language and demonstrates the value the applicant can bring.
  • Writing in a straightforward manner clarifies the applicant's qualifications without resorting to cliches or overused buzzwords.

Example 3: Demonstrate 3d printing in the achievements section

Achievements
Spearheaded 3D Printing Workflow
Developed a streamlined 3D printing process, reducing project completion times by 20%.
Introduced Scalable 3D Prototypes
Enabled the production of 50+ full-scale prototypes leading to a 30% increase in product iterations.
Enhanced 3D Print Material Use
Optimized material usage, saving the company upwards of $10,000 annually on supply costs.
RIGHT
  • The achievements provide clear examples of 3D printing skills in action with quantifiable results.
  • They avoid overused phrases and stick to factual, straightforward language.
  • The word count in titles is limited to eight or fewer, making them easy to read and engage with.
  • Descriptions are detailed, offering a snapshot of the individual’s work experiences and successes without being long-winded.
  • Using concrete numbers gives a real sense of the applicant's impact on previous projects.
  • The resume section doesn't lean on buzzwords but still communicates the applicant's proficiency and achievements.

What are the relevant certifications for 3d printing skills on resume

Enhance your resume by obtaining these certifications in 3D printing to demonstrate your expertise and improve your skills:

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The top 5 certifications for gaining 3d printing skills expertise:

  • Certified Additive Manufacturing Professional (CAMP) from the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME): This certificate showcases your knowledge in additive manufacturing processes, applications, and materials, aiding career advancement.
  • Additive Manufacturing Certification (AMC) from UL (Underwriters Laboratories): With this certificate, you'll show proficiency in understanding the safety and quality requirements of 3D printing, which is valuable for professionals working in regulated industries.
  • 3D Printing Certificate from MakerBot's MakerBot University (MBU): By completing this program, you demonstrate hands-on competence with MakerBot hardware and software, supporting roles that involve the direct operation of 3D printers.
  • 3D Printer Operator Technician Certificate from the Additive Manufacturing Professional Certification Institute (AMPCI): This certification covers the operation and maintenance of 3D printers, ensuring you can manage these machines effectively in a work environment.
  • Fundamentals of 3D Printing Certificate from AstroPrint: This introduces the basics of 3D printing technology, materials, and applications, providing a foundation for beginners or an additional credential for current operators looking to validate their basic skills.
  • Top skills people add together with 3d printing skill on resume:
    HARD SKILLS

    CAD

    3D Modeling

    Slicing Software

    Material Science

    Prototyping

    Mechanical Design

    CAD/CAM Software

    Manufacturing Processes

    Engineering Principles

    Design for Additive Manufacturing

    SOFT SKILLS

    Problem Solving

    Attention to Detail

    Creativity

    Time Management

    Adaptability

    Project Management

    Teamwork

    Communication Skills

    Continuous Learning

    Technical Writing

    Critical Thinking

    Most relevant jobs for 3d printing skills

    • Industrial Designer - Creating product prototypes and functional designs with 3D printers.
    • Mechanical Engineer - Applying knowledge of mechanics and materials in combination with 3D printing for component production.
    • Manufacturing Engineer - Integrating 3D printing into production processes for improved efficiency and product development.
    • Architect - Employing 3D printing to create scale models and explore complex structural designs.
    • Jewelry Designer - Using 3D printing to craft intricate, personalized pieces and molds.
    • Dental Technician - Producing dental appliances, crowns, and bridges with precise 3D printing techniques.
    • Biomedical Engineer - Developing medical devices and prosthetics through 3D bioprinting technologies.
    • Aerospace Engineer - Designing and testing aircraft components with lightweight and durable 3D printed materials.
    • Research and Development Scientist - Innovating new materials and applications for 3D printing technologies.
    • 3D Modeler - Crafting detailed digital models for 3D printing in various industries, such as gaming, film, and product design.

    Key takeaways

    • 3D printing skills can enhance your resume by demonstrating technical proficiency and adaptability to innovative manufacturing processes.
    • Avoid misusing 3D printing skills by staying informed about ethical considerations and proper use of the technology.
    • Show off your 3D printing expertise on your resume by including specific projects, results, and familiarity with relevant software and hardware.
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    Volen Vulkov
    Volen Vulkov is a resume expert and the co-founder of Enhancv. He applies his deep knowledge and experience to write about a career change, development, and how to stand out in the job application process.
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