Development 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.

The Development Engineer contributes to the design, development, testing, and deployment of advanced aerospace and defense mechanical systems. This role supports all phases of product development—from concept through full-scale execution—by assisting with analysis, prototyping, design verification testing, and demonstration efforts. Working as part of a multidisciplinary engineering team, the Development Engineer helps turn emerging technologies into proven solutions for critical military and aerospace applications.

Responsibilities

• Supports engineering project planning and execution for mechanical system development.
• Assists with meeting customer goals on schedule and within budget while ensuring high standards for accuracy and completeness.
• Contributes to test planning and execution, including test design, analysis, procedure development, data collection, data reduction, and report writing.
• Supports business development and project performance activities to meet customer needs.
• Collaborates with technical staff during proposal development and program execution.
• Demonstrates enthusiasm for the aerospace industry and effectively supports work in a fast‑paced, hands‑on environment.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or aerospace engineering, or equivalent relevant experience and registration.
• Solid understanding of engineering fundamentals.
• Basic understanding of data acquisition systems and instrumentation.
• Basic understanding of SolidWorks and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in mechanical engineering or aerospace engineering.
• Typically 0–3 years of aerospace or defense experience.
• Knowledge of military and commercial specifications.

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.