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 Space and Launch business, which has contributed to the nation’s space programs for decades by delivering complete solutions from concept to flight. We enable successful space operations with mission-critical technology supporting every step from first launch to final landing, including launch vehicle subsystems, propulsion systems, aerodynamic and interstage systems, and payload protection and deployment. Our high-performance solutions are engineered to operate in the most extreme environments and meet precise mission requirements.

As a Design Engineer I, you support the development of aerospace structures, mechanisms, and mechanical systems from concept through delivery. You contribute to designing, analyzing, documenting, and testing mechanical components that meet customer and mission requirements. In this role, you assist with new business development efforts, collaborate across engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams, and help ensure designs are producible, compliant with specifications, and ready for field deployment.

Responsibilities

• Supports the mechanical engineering team in conceptualizing, designing, and developing structures, mechanisms, and mechanical systems that meet customer and industry standards.
• Creates two‑dimensional mechanical layouts and three‑dimensional solid models to support design development.
• Performs basic engineering calculations and analyzes designs to ensure safe operation and compliance with defined requirements.
• Identifies off‑the‑shelf mechanical components, coordinates with vendors, and supports timely procurement.
• Develops engineering drawings, bills of materials, manufacturing system requirements, and inspection specifications consistent with applicable standards.
• Reviews designs for cost, manufacturability, and quality considerations.
• Documents performance requirements, compliance data, test plans, test procedures, and test reports.
• Supports manufacturing, quality assurance, testing, and deployment activities from concept through delivery.
• Coordinates internal and external manufacturing, assembly, and liaison efforts.
• Contributes to proposal preparation, presentations, and business development activities.
• Supports bench and field testing of mechanical components and systems.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent relevant experience and registration.
• Typically 0–3 years of aerospace and/or defense experience.
• Solid understanding of engineering fundamentals.
• Basic understanding of SolidWorks; proficiency preferred.
• Basic understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Knowledge of computer‑aided design and computer‑aided engineering (CAD/CAE) tools used in mechanical systems design.
• Knowledge of military and commercial design specifications preferred.
• 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.