Senior Design Engineer

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.

This role is part of our Hypersonics and Strategic Missile Defense business, which designs, develops, and delivers highly dependable missile systems for hypersonic and strategic missile defense missions. We provide integrated, mission-ready hardware that brings together multiple technologies into unified systems engineered to perform in demanding operational environments. Our tip-to-tail capabilities include payload protection and deployment systems, propulsion systems, aerodynamic interstage systems, separation systems, missile subsystems, shroud systems, launch systems, and payload integration solutions.

In this role, you will lead the design and development of aerospace structures, mechanisms, and mechanical systems from concept through detailed design and validation. You will provide technical leadership across multiple programs, guide proposal and concept design efforts, support prototype builds and testing, and mentor junior engineers while ensuring designs meet customer requirements and engineering standards.

Responsibilities

• Leads mechanical design activities across programs while supporting the broader engineering group.
• Conceptualizes, develops, and designs structures, mechanisms, and mechanical systems that meet customer requirements and customary engineering standards.
• Performs engineering calculations, analyses, and comprehensive tolerance stack‑up assessments.
• Verifies calculations and analytical work performed by others.
• Leads design efforts on systems and subsystems, often supporting multiple programs simultaneously.
• Supports proposals and quick‑turn concept development through computer‑aided design (CAD) models and illustrations.
• Generates bills of materials and complete drafting packages.
• Supports prototyping, hardware assembly, development testing, and product qualification.
• Mentors and serves as a technical resource for junior engineers.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or an equivalent field.
• Typically possesses 6 or more years of experience designing aerospace and/or defense systems.
• Proven experience designing robust hardware that has passed qualification testing.
• Demonstrated proficiency in mechanical design, engineering, and drawing conventions.
• Proficient in SolidWorks and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Knowledge of computer‑aided design and engineering (CAD/CAE) tools relevant to mechanical system design.
• Strong mathematical skills and understanding of material properties, strength, and stress formulas.
• Ability to read drawings and technical diagrams and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Strong computer skills and familiarity with common office and engineering tools.
• Detailed knowledge of design‑based military and commercial specifications.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and maintain a focus on quality and safety.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, creativity in solving problems, and the ability to balance detailed execution with broader program goals.
• Excellent communication and customer‑relationship skills.
• A current U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or an equivalent field.

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, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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