Development Engineer II

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 support the development, testing, and deployment of advanced aerospace and defense mechanical systems. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams from early conceptual design through prototype fabrication, system testing, and full‑scale development, contributing to technology maturation and verifying performance through hands‑on test activities and engineering documentation.

Responsibilities

• Supports planning and execution of projects requiring mechanical system development.
• Assists in completing client objectives on time and within budget while ensuring accuracy, completeness, and high-quality deliverables.
• Assists in test planning and execution, including test design and analysis, procedure development, data collection, and test reporting.
• Supports business development and project performance efforts to meet customer needs.
• Interacts effectively with clients during needs definition, proposal presentations, and project reviews.
• Collaborates with technical staff on proposal development and project execution.
• Demonstrates strong interest in aerospace and contributes to a fast-paced, hands‑on engineering environment.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering, or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and registration.
• Typically possesses 2–5 years of aerospace and/or defense experience.
• Solid understanding of multiple engineering technologies.
• Solid understanding of data acquisition systems and instrumentation.
• Demonstrated ability to perform product development tests, including leading prototype testing and supporting development test series.
• Knowledge of military and commercial specifications preferred.
• Basic understanding of SolidWorks and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• 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 or aerospace engineering, or an equivalent field.

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.