Design Engineer III - Space & Launch

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.

In this role, you will support mechanical engineering activities from concept through development, validation, and delivery. You will design structures, mechanisms, and mechanical systems; create supporting documentation; perform engineering analyses; and contribute to manufacturing, testing, and fielding efforts. You will also support proposal activities and collaborate across engineering and production teams while developing your technical expertise and design leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Supports the mechanical engineering group across all aspects of design.
• Conceptualizes, designs, and develops structures, mechanisms, and mechanical systems in accordance with customer and industry requirements.
• Creates 2‑D layout drawings and 3‑D solid model concepts.
• Performs engineering calculations and analyses to confirm design integrity and compliance.
• Reviews and verifies calculation and analysis work completed by peers and junior engineers.
• Leads design efforts on systems and subsystems.
• Documents performance requirements, compliance data, plans, procedures, test reports, and contractual specifications.
• Reviews designs for cost, manufacturability, and quality assurance considerations.
• Creates engineering drawings, Bills of Materials, manufacturing requirements, and inspection specifications.
• Supports manufacturing, quality assurance, assembly, testing, and deployment of designs.
• Provides internal and external technical support throughout the product lifecycle.
• Supports proposal development, concept creation, and customer presentations.
• Supports bench and field testing of mechanical components and systems.
• Mentors junior engineers and contributes to team technical development.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field; or equivalent experience and registration.
• Typically four to seven years of aerospace and/or defense experience.
• Solid understanding of multiple engineering technologies.
• Proven experience leading mechanical design of robust hardware.
• Detailed knowledge of design‑based military and commercial specifications.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks and strong experience with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Knowledge of CAD/CAE tools relevant to mechanical systems design.
• Strong mathematical skills and familiarity with material properties, strength, and stress analysis.
• Ability to read drawings and technical diagrams and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Strong computer skills and proficiency with office and engineering tools.
• Self‑motivated, able to work independently with minimal oversight, and capable of managing multiple priorities.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, creativity in problem‑solving, and ability to balance detailed execution with system‑level awareness.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to support customer interactions.
• 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.