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.

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 lead mechanical design efforts that shape aerospace structures, mechanisms, and systems from concept through delivery. You will drive engineering execution, guide junior engineers, support manufacturing and testing activities, and contribute to new business development by translating customer requirements into robust, producible designs that meet demanding performance and quality expectations.

Responsibilities

• Leads design activities for mechanical systems, structures, and mechanisms in support of customer and program requirements.
• Develops conceptual and detailed 2‑D layouts and 3‑D solid models to define mechanical designs.
• Performs mechanical engineering calculations and analyses to validate safe operation and compliance with specifications.
• Reviews and verifies calculations, analyses, and design work completed by peers and junior engineers.
• Documents design requirements, test plans, test procedures, test reports, and compliance evidence.
• Evaluates design concepts for cost, manufacturability, and quality considerations.
• Creates engineering drawings, bills of materials, manufacturing requirements, and inspection specifications.
• Supports manufacturing, assembly, quality assurance, testing, and deployment throughout the product lifecycle.
• Provides technical support for internal teams, external customers, and business development efforts.
• Mentors junior engineers and serves as a resource for mechanical engineering design practices.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field; or equivalent relevant experience and registration.
• Typically 4-7 years of aerospace or defense engineering experience.
• Solid understanding of multiple engineering technologies related to mechanical systems design.
• Proven experience leading the design of robust mechanical hardware.
• Knowledge of military and commercial design specifications.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks and experience with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Knowledge of computer‑aided design (CAD) and computer‑aided engineering (CAE) tools for mechanical systems.
• A current U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one.

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.