Freeform · 2 hours ago
Lead Applications Engineer (Aerospace & Defense)
Los Angeles, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level
$120K/yr - $185K/yr
5+ years expFreeform is deploying software-defined, autonomous metal 3D printing factories around the world, bringing the scalability of software to physical production. They are hiring a Lead Applications Engineer to serve as the primary technical interface with advanced aerospace and defense customers, responsible for translating engineering problems into manufacturable solutions and guiding customers through application discovery and feasibility.
3D TechnologyElectronicsIndustrial AutomationMachinery ManufacturingRobotics
Responsibilities
Serve as the primary technical point of contact for a portfolio of strategic aerospace and defense customers
Lead deep technical discussions with customer engineering teams across applications such as:
Propulsion systems
Heat exchangers and thermal management hardware
Valves and fluid systems
Turbomachinery components
Combustion devices
Lightweight structural components and assemblies
Develop a deep understanding of customer system requirements, constraints, and performance drivers
Translate customer needs into manufacturable solutions using Freeform’s technology, including geometry, materials, tolerances, and production considerations
Clearly articulate what Freeform’s manufacturing platform can and cannot deliver, including tradeoffs and constraints
Independently answer advanced technical questions related to materials, processes, qualification pathways, and production scalability
Identify where Freeform’s technology enables new designs, architectures, or performance regimes that were previously impractical or impossible
Work closely with internal engineering and operations teams to align on feasibility, execution, and roadmap—but without depending on them for basic technical credibility
Guide customers through early application exploration, development phases, and transition into production
Build long-term, trust-based technical relationships with customer engineers, program managers, and technical leadership
Provide feedback from the field to influence Freeform’s product, process, and roadmap decisions
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in engineering or similar technical discipline
5+ years of experience in an engineering, program management, or leadership role within aerospace, defense, or closely related high-performance industry
Strong systems-level understanding of complex mechanical hardware and how components function within larger assemblies
Preferred
Prior experience in a customer-facing technical role such as applications engineering, systems engineering, or field engineering
Ability to clearly communicate complex technical concepts to both engineering and non-engineering stakeholders
Experience with propulsion systems, thermal systems, fluid systems, turbomachinery, or high-performance structural components
Familiarity with metal manufacturing processes, including additive manufacturing, casting, forging, or advanced machining
Experience supporting hardware through development, qualification, and production ramp
Strong intuition for design-for-manufacturing and production scalability
Strategic thinker with a strong business acumen
Team player, positive attitude, growth mindset, integrity, accountability, adaptability, entrepreneurial, driven, results-oriented and ethical
Benefits
Significant stock option packages
100% employer-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance (premium PPO and HMO options)
Life insurance
Traditional and Roth 401(k)
Relocation assistance provided
Paid vacation, sick leave, and company holidays
Generous Paid Parental Leave and extended transition back to work for the birthing parent
Free daily catered lunch and dinner, and fully stocked kitchenette
Casual dress, flexible work hours, and regular catered team building events
Company
Freeform
Freeform is a 3D printing company offering metal 3D printing solutions for manufacturing companies.
11-50 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageTotal Funding
$117.88MKey Investors
AE Industrial Partners,NVenturesTwo Sigma Ventures
2026-01-07Series Unknown· $58.88M
2024-10-22Series Unknown· $14M
2023-02-01Series Unknown· $45M
Leadership Team
Erik Palitsch
CEO / Co-Founder
Recent News
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