Senior Design Engineer

About the role

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in rapid design, development, and production of next‑generation system solutions for the U.S. Department of War and its allies. The company delivers 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 the design and development of aerospace structures, mechanisms, and systems from concept through detailed design, validation, and product qualification, while guiding engineering activities, supporting new business pursuits, and mentoring junior engineers.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design activities across concept development, detailed design, validation, and delivery.
• Conceptualize, develop, and design structures, mechanisms, and mechanical systems that meet customer requirements and industry standards.
• Perform calculations, engineering analyses, and tolerance stack‑ups to validate design intent and performance.
• Verify calculations and analysis work completed by other team members.
• Lead design efforts for systems and subsystems, often across multiple simultaneous programs.
• Support proposal development, rapid concept design, and customer presentations through CAD models and visual content.
• Generate bills of materials and complete drafting packages for assigned designs.
• Support prototyping, hardware assembly, development testing, and product qualification.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance across the engineering team.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or an equivalent field.
• Typically 6 or more years of experience designing aerospace and/or defense systems.
• Proven experience designing hardware that has successfully passed qualification testing.
• Proficiency in mechanical design, engineering principles, 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 systems.
• Strong mathematical skills and understanding of material properties, strength, and stress formulas.
• Ability to read drawings and technical diagrams and work from verbal and written instructions.
• Strong computer skills and familiarity with common office applications and engineering tools.
• Detailed knowledge of design‑based military and commercial specifications.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and maintain a quality‑ and safety‑focused approach.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, creativity in solving technical problems, and ability to balance detailed work with broader program goals.
• Excellent communication and customer‑relationship skills.
• U.S. person status under U.S. export control laws (U.S. citizens, nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees).

Preferred Qualifications

• Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or an equivalent advanced degree.
• Registration or equivalent relevant professional credential.

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

Schedule

9/80 schedule: Monday‑Friday, 8 am start, every other Friday off.