Senior Test Engineer

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 Hypersonics and Strategic Missile Defense business, which designs, develops, and delivers highly dependable missile systems for hypersonic and strategic missile defense missions. We provide integrated, mission-ready hardware that brings together multiple technologies into unified systems engineered to perform in demanding operational environments. Our tip-to-tail capabilities include payload protection and deployment systems, propulsion systems, aerodynamic interstage systems, separation systems, missile subsystems, shroud systems, launch systems, and payload integration solutions.

In this role, you will lead program execution activities and provide technical leadership for complex aerospace and defense system development efforts. You will drive mechanical and electromechanical system design, analysis, prototyping, and testing from concept through demonstration. You will play a key role in developing advanced technologies, guiding multidisciplinary teams, and supporting proposal efforts and customer engagements to ensure programs meet performance, budget, and schedule goals.

Responsibilities

• Leads project planning, development, and execution for mechanical system development efforts.
• Supports proposal development and program management activities involving advanced mechanical and electromechanical technologies.
• Collaborates with multidisciplinary teams across analysis, development, and testing to provide integrated technical support.
• Assists program managers and project engineers in meeting customer objectives on time and within budget while ensuring product accuracy and completeness.
• Supports business development activities to align project performance with customer needs.
• Engages with clients on needs definition, proposal presentations, project reviews, and related technical discussions.
• Works closely with technical staff to support proposal preparation and project performance.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or aerospace engineering.
• 4–7 years of experience in mechanical development of aerospace systems with exposure to electromechanical systems.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks and experience with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD\&T).
• Background in heat transfer, structural analysis, dynamics/kinematics, advanced high‑strength materials, computer‑aided design (CAD), and machine design.
• Demonstrated ability to develop, plan, and execute projects.
• A current U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in mechanical engineering or aerospace engineering.
• Energetics experience.
• Experience leading qualification test activities.
• Design verification and development experience.
• Handlers or blasters license.
• Defense, aerospace, or automotive industry background.

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.