Design Engineer III

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies’ core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.

In this role, you will lead mechanical design efforts that support new business development and engineering objectives. You will conceptualize and develop aerospace structures and mechanical systems, guide design activities across the product lifecycle, and provide technical expertise that strengthens engineering execution from initial concept through delivery.

Responsibilities

• Leads conceptual and detailed design of aerospace structures, mechanisms, and mechanical systems in alignment with customer requirements and industry standards.
• Creates 2‑D layout drawings and 3‑D solid model concepts for mechanical systems.
• Performs engineering calculations and analyses to validate safe operation and compliance with requirements.
• Verifies design calculations and analysis performed by peers and junior engineers.
• Reviews designs for cost, manufacturability, and quality assurance considerations.
• Develops engineering documentation including drawings, bills of materials, manufacturing requirements, and inspection specifications.
• Supports manufacturing, quality assurance, assembly, testing, and deployment activities throughout the product lifecycle.
• Provides technical support to internal teams, suppliers, and customers during development and production.
• Supports proposal development, presentations, and business development activities.
• Mentors junior engineers and acts as a technical resource across the team.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering, or equivalent relevant experience and registration.
• Typically 4–7 years of aerospace or defense experience.
• Solid understanding of multiple engineering technologies.
• Proven experience leading the design of robust hardware.
• Detailed knowledge of military and commercial design specifications.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks and experience with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD\&T).
• Knowledge of CAD/CAE tools relevant to mechanical systems design.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering.

Special Mentions

• Minimal travel may be required for this position.

This position requires U.S. person status under U.S. export control laws, including U.S. citizens and nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Company‑paid life and AD\&D insurance
• Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage
• Tuition reimbursement

Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.