Design Engineer I

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 Tactical Missiles and Integrated Defense Systems business, which designs and develops integrated missile and defense systems that support critical missions across air, land, and sea. We combine comprehensive analysis, engineering, and program execution capabilities to deliver mission-tailored solutions that reduce lead times, lower costs, and simplify complex multi-vendor supply chains.

Backed by decades of flight-proven and fielded performance, we design and build mission-critical technologies including launch systems, propulsion, payload integration solutions, UAV components, missile subsystems, and Safe & Arm systems. In this role, you will support mechanical design activities across multiple product lines, contributing to concept development, design definition, engineering analysis, and documentation.

You will collaborate with cross‑functional teams, evaluate off‑the‑shelf components, and support manufacturing, testing, and customer engagement to ensure designs meet performance, cost, and quality expectations. Your work directly contributes to new business development and successful program execution.

Responsibilities

Supports mechanical design activities for structures, mechanisms, and mechanical systems based on customer and program requirements. Creates 2‑D layouts and 3‑D solid models for conceptual and detailed design. Performs basic mechanical engineering calculations and analyses to validate safe system performance. Identifies off‑the‑shelf components, evaluates suppliers, and supports procurement to meet delivery schedules.

Assists in system‑level design by owning design of subsystems and components. Documents performance requirements, test plans, procedures, reports, and compliance evidence. Reviews designs for cost, manufacturability, and quality assurance considerations. Develops engineering drawings, bills of materials, manufacturing requirements, and inspection specifications.

Supports manufacturing, quality assurance, testing, and deployment throughout the lifecycle of assigned designs. Coordinates internal and external manufacturing and assembly activities. Supports proposal development, presentations, and business development initiatives. Supports bench and field testing of mechanical elements and systems.

Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field; or equivalent relevant experience and registration. Typically 0–3 years of aerospace or defense engineering experience. Solid understanding of engineering fundamentals. Proficiency in Solid. Works preferred; basic proficiency required.

Basic understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T). Knowledge of military and commercial design specifications. Knowledge of computer‑aided design (CAD) and computer‑aided engineering (CAE) tools for mechanical systems.

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field. 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.