Additive Manufacturing Lead

Microsoft • Redmond, WA

3d

About The Position

The Finishing team partners closely with Industrial Design and Engineering teams across Windows & Devices (Surface), Xbox, and emerging quantum computing programs to bring product visions to life through world-class prototyping.
As an Additive Manufacturing Lead, you will partner with Industrial Design and Engineering teams to develop high-quality additive prototypes that accurately reflect both design and engineering intent. You will operate in a fast-paced, collaborative prototyping environment where precision, craftsmanship, and technical expertise are critical. Apply your knowledge of additive technologies, materials, and processes to innovate, improve workflows, and help shape the future of prototyping capabilities.
Microsoft’s mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. As employees, we come together with a growth mindset, innovate to empower others, and collaborate to realize our shared goals. Each day we build on our values of respect, integrity, and accountability to create a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive at work and beyond.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, Industrial Technology, or related field AND 3+ years model making or prototyping work experience OR High School Diploma AND 7+ years model making or shop experience, including building and machining appearance models or prototypes OR equivalent experience.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, Industrial Technology, or related field AND 7+ years model-making or prototyping experience in the consumer electronics industry, including building and machining Class A appearance models or engineering prototypes OR equivalent experience.
• Hands-on experience with additive manufacturing systems (PolyJet, SLA, SLS, FDM, etc.) and post-processing workflows.
• CAD proficiency (Rhino, SolidWorks, Creo, Fusion 360, or equivalent).
• Experience collaborating with Industrial Design and Engineering teams in an iterative prototyping environment.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and project management skills
• Experience defining and implementing additive manufacturing workflows, technology roadmaps, and KPIs.
• Understanding of emerging additive manufacturing technologies and materials.
• Experience managing additive manufacturing equipment, lab organization, and supplier relationships.
• Demonstrated ability to lead innovation and process improvements in a fast-paced prototyping or production environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and advance the additive manufacturing vision within the Advanced Prototyping Center, supporting current and future prototyping needs.
• Align additive manufacturing capabilities with product development goals and partner team requirements.
• Drive the evaluation and adoption of new additive manufacturing processes, materials, and technologies that improve quality, speed, and scalability.
• Improve additive manufacturing efficiency, capacity, and reliability through process refinement and technical expertise.
• Champion digital transformation efforts by leveraging modern AI tools, automation, and data-driven insights to improve additive workflows.
• Partner with external suppliers and technology providers to advance additive manufacturing capabilities and stay current with industry trends.
• Collaborate closely with design, engineering, and APC partners to integrate additive manufacturing solutions across projects.
• Promote a culture of innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence within APC.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees