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Contractual Firearm Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Design Engineer II, Suppressors SIG SAUER, Inc . is a leading provider and manufacturer of firearms, electro-optics, ammunition, airguns, suppressors, remote controlled weapons stations, and training.

TrinityRail i s looking for a motivated Design Engineer to join our team in Dallas, Texas . This ... Evaluate product designs for compliance with regulatory, contractual, and performance standards ...

TrinityRail i s looking for a motivated Design Engineer to join our team in Dallas, Texas . This ... Evaluate product designs for compliance with regulatory, contractual, and performance standards ...

TrinityRail i s looking for a motivated Design Engineer to join our team in Dallas, Texas . This ... Evaluate product designs for compliance with regulatory, contractual, and performance standards ...

Design Engineer

Grand Prairie, TX · On-site

$65 - $70/hr

Design Engineer Location: (onsite) Employment type: Contract : Designs major components, or major ... efficiency, and contractual specification requirements and cost. Coordinates with other ...

... contractual specifications. * Training - Senior Design Engineers may be asked to lead training of colleagues in their areas of expertise. Other related duties may be assigned as needed to support the ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Troy, AL

$61.20K - $82.90K/yr

Design Engineer will design, create solid models, detail components, and support the development of ... firearms is a plus. Education:Bachelor LevelEmployment Type: CONTRACTOR

... efficiency, and contractual specification requirements and cost. Coordinates with other ... and/or improvements in design layout to responsible engineers or designers. PREFERRED ...

Learn More About EAS Job Purpose Responsible for battery design and engineering analyses on molten ... efficiency, and contractual specification requirements andcost. * Coordinates with other ...

Design Engineer I Design Engineer I is a technical staff position for individuals that typically ... Logs time accurately on a daily basis per Project Manager's contractual agreements * Voluntarily ...

Product Design Engineer

Prescott, AZ

$127.30K - $152.90K/yr

Job Title: Product Design Engineer Location: Prescott, AZ (on site) Company: Sturm, Ruger & Co ... Experience in firearms or regulated manufacturing environments. * Knowledge of manufacturing ...

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Contractual Firearm Design Engineer information

See salary details

$60.5K

$97.1K

$127K

How much do contractual firearm design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for contractual firearm design engineer in the United States is $97,060.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,500.00 and $110,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contractual Firearm Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contractual Firearm Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, materials science, and firearm safety standards, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with CAD software, rapid prototyping tools, and knowledge of industry regulations such as ATF compliance is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication with clients and manufacturing teams set top professionals apart. These skills ensure the safe, innovative, and compliant design of firearms to meet client specifications and regulatory requirements.

What are some typical collaboration points for a Contractual Firearm Design Engineer within a project team?

As a Contractual Firearm Design Engineer, you'll frequently collaborate with cross-functional teams, including manufacturing engineers, quality assurance specialists, and compliance officers, to ensure your designs meet regulatory and production requirements. You may also work closely with project managers to align on timelines and deliverables, and with prototype technicians to oversee testing and refinement of firearm components. Effective communication and documentation are essential, as your work often impacts multiple aspects of product development and safety. Regular meetings and design reviews help ensure your contributions are integrated smoothly into the overall project.

What is a Contractual Firearm Design Engineer?

A Contractual Firearm Design Engineer is a professional who is hired on a contract basis to design, develop, and test firearms and related components. They work with manufacturers or defense companies to create new firearm models, improve existing designs, and ensure compliance with safety and legal standards. Their work often involves using advanced computer-aided design (CAD) software, conducting prototype testing, and collaborating with other engineers and stakeholders. Since they are contractors, their employment is typically project-based and may vary in duration and scope.

What is the difference between Contractual Firearm Design Engineer vs Mechanical Firearm Design Engineer?

AspectContractual Firearm Design EngineerMechanical Firearm Design Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, firearm safety certificationsEngineering degree, firearm safety certifications
Work EnvironmentContract-based projects, firearm manufacturing facilitiesFull-time roles, firearm manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageUsed by companies hiring contractors for firearm designEmployed directly by firearm manufacturers
Search & Comparison IntentCommonly compared for project-based rolesCompared for permanent engineering positions

The Contractual Firearm Design Engineer typically works on a project basis, providing specialized firearm design services for a limited period, often through contracts. In contrast, the Mechanical Firearm Design Engineer is usually a full-time employee involved in ongoing firearm development and manufacturing. Both roles require similar credentials and safety certifications, but their employment structure and work environment differ significantly.

More about Contractual Firearm Design Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Contractual Firearm Design Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Contractual Firearm Design Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Firearm Design Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Firearm Design Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Contractual Firearm Design Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Contractual Firearm Design Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contractual Firearm Design Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contractual Firearm Design Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Contractual Firearm Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $97,060 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Design Engineer II, Suppressors

SigSauer

Exeter, NH

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Design Engineer II, Suppressors

SIG SAUER, Inc. is a leading provider and manufacturer of firearms, electro-optics, ammunition, airguns, suppressors, remote controlled weapons stations, and training. For over 250 years SIG SAUER, Inc. has evolved, and thrived, by blending American ingenuity, German engineering, and Swiss precision. Today, SIG SAUER is synonymous with industry-leading quality and innovation which has made it the brand of choice amongst the U.S. Military, the global defense community, law enforcement, competitive shooters, hunters, and responsible citizens. Additionally, SIG SAUER is the premier provider of elite firearms instruction and tactical training at the SIG SAUER Academy. Headquartered in Newington, New Hampshire, SIG SAUER employs people across various U.S. locations, and global facilities across multiple regions. SIG SAUER is certified a Great Place to Workâ„¢. For more information about the company and product line visit: www.sigsauer.com.

Position Summary: The Design Engineer II applies sound engineering judgment to product development activities including CAD modeling, prototype evaluation, testing, and hands-on firearm system work. This position requires strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and collaboration with Manufacturing, Quality, Product Development, and Production teams. The ideal candidate is self-motivated, technically proficient in SolidWorks, and passionate about precision mechanical systems and firearms technology.

FLSA: Exempt

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Develop innovative mechanical designs and product improvements for firearm suppressors, mounts, muzzle devices, and related accessories.
  • Create detailed 3D CAD models, assemblies, engineering drawings, and documentation using SolidWorks.
  • Support new product development projects from concept through prototype, testing, validation, and production release.
  • Generate and maintain ASME-compliant drawings with appropriate GD&T and functional dimensioning practices.
  • Participate in continuous improvement efforts related to product performance, manufacturability, quality, and cost reduction.
  • Conduct hands-on testing, assembly, and evaluation of suppressors and firearm systems.
  • Assist with root cause analysis, troubleshooting, and implementation of corrective actions for design and manufacturing issues.
  • Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, and Production teams to support DFM initiatives and efficient production methods.
  • Evaluate prototypes and production components through testing and data analysis; document findings and engineering recommendations.
  • Process engineering changes, revisions, and technical documentation updates through established systems.
  • Assist with material selection, tolerance analysis, and manufacturing process considerations including machining and finishing operations.
  • Support development and maintenance of engineering standards, test procedures, and technical documentation.
  • Participate in shop activities, prototype builds, and product evaluations while maintaining strict adherence to safety procedures.
  • Sustain 5S standards and contribute to ongoing operational and engineering improvement projects.
  • Perform additional engineering and development duties as assigned. Participate in and sustain 5S Standards.
  • Must follow all required Safety and ISO procedures.
  • Miscellaneous duties as assigned.

Education/Experience & Skills:

  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and 3–6 years of engineering experience in an R&D environment, preferably involving firearm suppressors, small arms systems, precision mechanical products, or related accessories.
  • Experience supporting the design, development, testing, and continuous improvement of firearm suppressors, muzzle devices, mounting systems, and associated weapon accessories.
  • Capable of performing moderately complex analyses such as FEA, kinematic and dynamic motion studies, CFD, thermal/heat transfer analysis, and sound/pressure flow evaluation related to suppressor performance, durability, and thermal management.
  • Proficient using Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Proficient using CAD software to create parametric solid models, assemblies, and associated drawings; SolidWorks experience required. Experience using a PLM system such as Agile preferred.
  • Able to generate clear, fully dimensioned, ASME Y14.5 compliant drawings of complex parts using logical datum structures and functional dimensioning schemes. Familiar with GD&T symbology and standard inspection methods. Capable of completing complex tolerance stack analyses. Proficiency with tolerance stack software preferred.
  • Intermediate understanding of manufacturing methods including precision machining, CNC turning, welding, additive manufacturing, metal injection molding, plastic injection molding, stamping/fine blanking, extrusion, forging, and casting. Knowledge of material selection, heat treatment, coatings, and high-temperature/high-pressure applications required.
  • Experience with suppressor materials such as stainless steels, Inconel, titanium, and other high-performance alloys preferred. Familiarity with baffle geometry, gas flow management, erosion mitigation, and thermal considerations is highly desirable.
  • Experience conducting hands-on firearm testing, suppressor fitment evaluation, live-fire testing, and performance validation preferred. Ability to safely handle, disassemble, maintain, and troubleshoot firearms and related systems required.
  • Must be able to clearly, concisely, and accurately convey ideas and information to others, both verbally and in written form.
  • Able to work effectively as part of a team, as well as independently, with limited guidance.
  • Possess practical experience with mechanical assembly techniques. Able to define problems, collect data using tools such as HSV, establish facts, and propose viable solutions to technical issues.
  • Familiarity with applicable ATF/NFA regulations and suppressor industry standards is a plus.

Working Conditions:

  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working at a computer using a keyboard and mouse performing repetitive tasks.
  • Ability to open file cabinets, reach with hands and arms, bend, and twist, lift and move files.
  • Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
  • Must wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) where required.
  • Must comply with all work exposure EH&S training requirements and adhere to SIG SAUER Inc. Security Mandates.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.