Computer Aided Design Apprentice Jobs in Elkmont, AL

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.

As a Senior Design Engineer, you will lead the design and development of aerospace structures, mechanisms, and mechanical systems from concept through qualification. You will support multiple programs, guide design activities, perform engineering analyses, and mentor junior engineers. Your work plays a central role in developing flight-worthy hardware and supporting new business development with high-quality concept designs and technical leadership.

Responsibilities

• Leads mechanical design efforts across structures, mechanisms, and mechanical systems from concept through detailed design.
• Conceptualizes, develops, and designs hardware in accordance with customer requirements and customary standards.
• Performs engineering calculations, analysis, and tolerance stack-up analyses to validate designs.
• Verifies calculations and analysis completed by other engineers.
• Leads design work on systems and subsystems across multiple programs simultaneously.
• Supports proposal efforts and rapid concept development using computer-aided design (CAD) models and illustrations.
• Generates bills of materials and complete drafting packages for assemblies and designs.
• Supports prototyping, hardware assembly, development testing, and product qualification activities.
• Mentors' junior engineers and serves as a technical resource within the team.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent relevant experience and registration.
• Typically, 6 or more years of experience designing aerospace or defense systems.
• Proven experience designing hardware that has passed qualification testing.
• Demonstrated proficiency in mechanical design, engineering, and drawing conventions.
• Proficient in SolidWorks and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Knowledge of computer-aided design and computer-aided engineering (CAD/CAE) tools used in mechanical systems design.
• Strong mathematical skills with understanding of material properties, strength, and stress formulas.
• Ability to read drawings and technical diagrams and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Strong computer skills with familiarity in common office applications and engineering tools.
• Detailed knowledge of design-based military and commercial specifications.
• Self-motivated, able to multi-task, work independently with minimal oversight, and maintain strong quality and safety focus.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering.

This position requires U.S. person status under U.S. export control laws, including U.S. citizens and nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.

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.