Associate Design Engineer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems (OTS) is a global leader in the design, engineering and production of munitions, energetics, weapons, armaments, and missile subsystems around the world. OTS empowers the U.S. military and its allies with an extensive range of overarching product segments applied across all levels of strategic and tactical operations, providing a cutting‑edge advantage to our warfighters. Our Ethos of Honesty, Trust, Transparency, and Alignment, are the guiding principles that form the foundation of everything we do. Integrity is paramount, innovation fuels our passion, customer satisfaction is at the core of our mission, and collaboration is key to our success – fostering a culture of teamwork and mutual respect among employees, partners, and stakeholders. Whether you're just starting out on your career journey or are an experienced professional, we offer a robust total rewards package that goes above and beyond with compensation; healthcare, wellness, retirement, and work/life benefits that include career development and recognition programs. If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we invite you to join our high‑performance team!

We are currently seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to join our growing Solid Rocket Motor Engineering Team. The ideal candidate will have experience as Mechanical Design Engineer for solid rocket motors. That would include Mechanical Design Integration of Solid Propulsion Systems, mechanical system design, mass properties and integrating all sub‑assemblies. They will be responsible for the design, development, and integration of mechanical components used in solid rocket motor systems. This role focuses on creating CAD models, engineering drawings, and specifications for critical hardware such as motor cases, nozzles, insulation systems, joints, and structural interfaces. This position can be remote or at our Huntsville, AL or Hampton, AR facility.

• Requires in-depth conceptual and practical knowledge in own job discipline and basic knowledge of related job disciplines
• Solves complex problems
• Works independently, receives minimal guidance
• May lead projects or project steps within a broader project or may have accountability for on‑going activities or objectives
• Acts as a resource for colleagues with less experience
• Consistent exercise of discretion & judgment

• Applies engineering techniques to design, install, modify, analyze, repair and test tools, engines, machines, and other mechanically functioning equipment.
• Reads and interprets blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, and computer-generated reports.
• Confers with engineers and other personnel to implement operating procedures, resolve system malfunctions, and provide technical information.
• Researches and analyzes customer design proposals, specifications, manuals, and other data to evaluate the feasibility, cost, and maintenance requirements of designs or applications.
• Specifies system components or directs modification of products to ensure conformance with engineering design and performance specifications.
• Investigates equipment failures and difficulties to diagnose faulty operation, and to make recommendations to maintenance crew.

• Collaborates closely with structural, thermal, and propulsion analysts to ensure designs meet performance, safety, and manufacturing requirements.
• Responsibilities include supporting the full product lifecycle—from concept design and configuration development to manufacturing, assembly, and static fire test activities.
• Maintains configuration control, resolves design issues, and provides technical support to manufacturing and test operations.

• Required education and experience: Associate's Degree and 5-7 years' experience
• Discipline/Major: Engineering degree required
• Critical professional related technical skills; computer skills: Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

• Preferred education and experience: Bachelor’s Degree
• Knowledge, skills & abilities: Oral and written communication skills. Ability to meet deadlines. Interpersonal skills. Problem‑solving skills. Analytical thinking skills. Applied mechanics. Design engineering. Design optimization. Design review. Mechanical engineering. Prototyping. Requirements engineering/analysis. CAD software. Computer‑aided engineering (CAE) software.

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position at a desk and/or computer for extended periods of time.
• Requires regular movement throughout GD‑OTS facilities.
• May need to stand for long periods of time.
• Work primarily in a climate‑controlled environment with minimal safety/health hazard potential.
• Work may require employee to work inside and outside with exposure to changing climate and/or operate machinery.

Travel Requirements: Up to 25% travel likely.

Pay Range (USD): $100,300 - $135,700

Additional Compensation: Hired applicant may be eligible to participate in the Company’s Gain Sharing Program.

Employees are eligible for medical, dental, vision, short and long‑term disability, and basic life insurance as well as pre‑tax spending accounts. Employees are also able to enroll in the company’s 401k plan and are eligible for the Non‑Contributory Retirement Contribution. In addition to the benefits discussed above, the company offers the following voluntary benefits:

• Critical Illness Insurance
• Accident Insurance
• Identity Theft Protection
• Enhanced Legal Services
• Auto and Home Insurance
• Pet Insurance
• Commuter Benefits
• Hospital Indemnity Insurance
• Educational Assistance

Employees will receive 11 paid holidays and 120 hours of PTO annually and up to 3 weeks paid family leave.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work only. The statements do not represent an exhaustive list of required responsibilities and skills. Other duties may be added or this job description may be amended at any time. This job description does not alter an employee’s at‑will employment status or create an employment agreement or contract, implied or otherwise.