3D Printing & Studio Manager

Job Description: 3D Printing & Studio Manager

Company: Badhuche

Job Title: 3D Printing & Studio Manager

Department: Design & Production

Location: [Insert Location]

Employment Type: Full-time

About Badhuche

Badhuche is a design-driven studio focused on translating creative ideas into tangible objects through design, technology, experimentation, and making. We are looking for a hands-on, organised, and technically capable professional to manage our 3D printing operations and ensure the smooth functioning of the studio.

Role Overview

The 3D Printing & Studio Manager will be responsible for operating and maintaining 3D printers, managing digital fabrication workflows, coordinating prototype and model production, and maintaining an efficient, safe, and well-organised studio environment.

The ideal candidate combines technical knowledge of 3D printing with practical problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work closely with designers and other team members.

Key Responsibilities1. 3D Printer Operations

• Operate and manage 3D printers for prototypes, design models, components, and final products.
• Prepare digital files for printing, including slicing, orientation, supports, and print settings.
• Monitor print jobs and troubleshoot common printing issues such as warping, layer shifting, adhesion failure, and nozzle blockage.
• Manage filament, resin, and other consumables, as applicable to the studio's equipment.
• Ensure consistent print quality, dimensional accuracy, and efficient material usage.
• Maintain a print schedule and prioritise jobs based on project requirements and deadlines.

2. Machine Maintenance & Troubleshooting

• Perform routine cleaning, calibration, preventive maintenance, and basic repairs.
• Maintain records of machine usage, maintenance, failures, and consumable replacement.
• Identify recurring technical issues and recommend improvements.
• Coordinate with equipment suppliers or service technicians for advanced repairs.

3. Digital Fabrication & Post-Processing

• Prepare, clean, finish, and assemble 3D-printed parts.
• Carry out post-processing activities such as support removal, sanding, surface finishing, and basic assembly.
• Assist the design team in evaluating prototypes and improving designs for manufacturability.
• Maintain organised digital files, print profiles, and project-wise production records.

4. Studio Management

• Maintain a clean, organised, and functional studio and fabrication workspace.
• Manage inventory of printing materials, tools, hardware, adhesives, and other supplies.
• Track material consumption, wastage, stock levels, and procurement requirements.
• Ensure that tools and equipment are stored properly and remain ready for use.
• Establish standard operating procedures for printing, maintenance, safety, and material handling.
• Coordinate daily studio activities and ensure that project deadlines are met.

5. Team Collaboration

• Work closely with designers, architects, product developers, and other studio team members.
• Assist in translating 3D models and design concepts into physical prototypes.
• Provide practical feedback on printability, tolerances, material selection, and fabrication methods.
• Support design reviews, model development, experimentation, and project execution.

6. Safety & Quality Control

• Follow safe operating procedures for 3D printers, tools, chemicals, and finishing equipment.
• Maintain appropriate ventilation and handling practices, especially for resin printing.
• Inspect finished prints for defects, dimensional accuracy, and overall quality.
• Ensure safe disposal and handling of waste materials according to applicable procedures.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Diploma, degree, or relevant practical experience in Product Design, Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, Architecture, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience operating FDM/FFF 3D printers; experience with resin/SLA printers is an advantage.
• Working knowledge of slicing software such as Ultimaker Cura, PrusaSlicer, Bambu Studio, or equivalent.
• Ability to work with 3D files and common formats such as STL, OBJ, and 3MF.
• Familiarity with CAD or 3D modelling software such as Fusion 360, SolidWorks, Rhino, Blender, or similar is desirable.
• Practical troubleshooting, maintenance, and post-processing skills.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple print jobs simultaneously.
• Attention to detail, ownership, reliability, and a problem-solving mindset.
• Comfortable working in a hands-on, collaborative, and evolving design studio.

Preferred Experience

• Experience managing multiple 3D printers or a prototyping/fabrication studio.
• Understanding of print orientation, tolerances, material properties, and design for additive manufacturing.
• Experience with model-making, product development, architecture models, or design prototyping.
• Familiarity with inventory management, production planning, and basic cost tracking.

Key Performance Indicators

Performance will be assessed on:

• Print quality and first-pass success rate.
• On-time completion of printing and fabrication jobs.
• Machine uptime and preventive maintenance.
• Efficient material usage and control of wastage.
• Accuracy of inventory and production records.
• Studio organisation, safety, and operational readiness.
• Responsiveness and collaboration with the design team.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for someone who enjoys making things, understands the relationship between digital design and physical production, and takes pride in keeping a studio running smoothly. The right candidate will be comfortable moving between technical troubleshooting, hands-on fabrication, planning, and day-to-day studio coordination.

How to Apply

Interested candidates may share their CV, a brief description of their relevant experience, and photographs or examples of 3D prints, prototypes, or fabrication projects they have worked on.

• Subject line: Application – 3D Printing & Studio Manager – Badhuche