Senior Development Engineer

Karman Space & Defense

Karman Space & Defense

Other Engineering

Decatur, AL, USA

Posted on May 15, 2026

SUMMARY

The Senior Development Engineer performs a lead role in project management and program execution, and provides technical leadership for projects requiring the application and demonstration of aerospace and defense systems. The primary focus of this position is the design, development, and demonstration of advanced technologies in support of military and aerospace development programs, with minimal direct oversight required. The Senior Development Engineer oversees all phases of program development, including conceptual level design and analysis, full scale system development, prototype hardware design, fabrication, and system testing.

ABOUT US

Karman Space & Defense provides concept-to-production solutions for mission-critical systems on spacecraft, launch vehicles, missiles, hypersonics, and integrated defense systems. We believe that solving the industry’s most complex and mission-critical challenges requires relentless determination and a willingness to push the boundaries of possibility. Karman Space & Defense brings to bear unparalleled production capabilities, unmatched engineering expertise, and unflinching analysis to render the impossible, possible.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Tuition Reimbursement*

WHAT YOU WILL DO

  • Performs lead role in organizing and managing a team, in the development, planning and execution of projects requiring mechanical system development
  • Plays key role in proposal efforts and program management of projects requiring application of advanced mechanical and electromechanical system technologies
  • Interfaces with and contributes to multi-discipline team analysis, development, and testing activities in providing total integrated support to multiple clients
  • Assists the program manager and/or project engineer in planning, assuring completion of client goals on time, within budget and ensuring products conform to the highest standards of excellence in terms of accuracy, completeness, and presentation
  • Supports business development and project performance efforts to meet customer needs
  • Effectively interacts with clients for business development including needs definition, proposal presentations, project definition and reviews
  • Effectively interacts with technical staff for proposal development and project performance

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

  • B.S. or M.S. Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
  • 4 to 7 years of experience in mechanical development of aerospace systems with exposure to electromechanical systems
  • Proficient in SolidWorks, and experience with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing
  • Background and experience with heat transfer, structural analysis, dynamics/ kinematics, advanced high-strength materials, CAD and machine design
  • Demonstrated ability to develop, plan and execute projects
  • Must be a U.S. citizen and hold or be able to obtain a DoD SECRET clearance

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities. The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information.

Karman is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis (“protected class”) including, but not limited to race; color; religion; genetic information; national origin; sex; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; age; disability; citizenship status; uniform servicemember status; or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law. Our management is dedicated to ensuring the fulfillment of this policy with respect to hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, recruitment advertising, pay, and other forms of compensation, training, and general treatment during employment.