Production Operations Engineer (Manufacturing)

About the Role

Freeform builds AI-native manufacturing systems that unify software, hardware, and physics to produce industrial-scale parts at the speed of human ideation. As a Production Engineer at Freeform, you will sit at the intersection of manufacturing and operations, keeping complex metal 3D printed parts moving through high-volume post-processing operations. You will track parts through each stage of production, evaluate deviations against drawings and GD&T requirements, and communicate directly with customers and internal teams on part status and disposition. Complex geometries, tight tolerances, and an exacting eye for detail define the work. You will operate in a fast-paced, dynamic environment where schedules evolve quickly and rigor and reliability are non-negotiable.

Key Responsibilities

• Own the day-to-day flow of parts through post-processing, monitoring throughput and flagging issues before they become bottlenecks.
• Evaluate part rework, deformation, and nonconformance against drawings and GD&T requirements, and determine appropriate disposition.
• Communicate part status, rework decisions, and deviations directly with customers and internal stakeholders.
• Support test procedures and inspection steps to ensure parts meet requirements before shipment.
• Work with manufacturing development engineers to flag recurring process issues and provide floor-level feedback on tooling and fixturing performance.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date production tracking and documentation to support traceability and reporting.
• Help identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies in how parts, materials, and data move through the factory, and work with cross-functional teams to resolve them.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Ability to read engineering drawings and communicate clearly with customers on technical topics.
• Experience working with hand tools, machinery, or complex hardware assembly.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, manufacturing, or related engineering field.
• Internship or professional experience in manufacturing, production, or quality engineering.

Nice to Have

• 2+ years of experience in a hands-on production, manufacturing, or quality engineering role.
• Strong understanding of GD&T and drawing interpretation.
• Experience with metal additive manufacturing, machining, or precision post-processing.
• Experience evaluating nonconformances, rework, or part deformation.
• Familiarity with MRP/ERP tools and production tracking systems.
• Direct customer-facing experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to prioritize and make sound judgment calls under production pressure.

Location

• Based in Hawthorne, our vertically integrated facility brings technology development, R&D, and production together under one roof.

Compensation

• Estimated salary range for this role is $90,000-$130,000.