Defense Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WORK LOCATION: San Luis Obispo, CA

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

SALARY RANGE: The anticipated salary range for this role is $106,000 to $142,000 annually. This range reflects a good faith estimate based on the targeted level for the role and typical compensation benchmarks across U.S. locations. Actual compensation may vary depending on the selected candidate’s qualifications, experience, geographical location, and internal alignment. 

SUMMARY

Redwire Defense Tech is seeking a Packaging Engineer responsible for developing, testing, and optimizing packaging solutions for UAV components, payloads, and mission-critical subsystems. This role ensures that sensitive aerospace hardware arrives mission-ready under diverse transport and operational conditions. We are seeking someone who brings an industrial-design mindset to protective packaging, with an ability to balance aesthetics with unboxing and presentation. If you have a passion for creating packaging that’s as thoughtful and polished as the hardware it protects, this could be the role for you!

RESPONSIBILITIES

The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties.

• Design and develop packaging concepts that elevate presentation and useability (unboxing flow, labeling heirarchy and visual layout)
• Own packaging graphics and create professional presentation materials including: renderings, exploded views, packaging mockups and design reviews.
• Engineer durable and cost‑effective packaging solutions for UAV components, avionics, optics, propulsion systems and ground support equipment.
• Convert engineering requirements and CAD models into complete packaging designs, drawings and specifications.
• Conduct and document validation testing (drop, vibration, shock, environmental, transit) in accordance with ISTA, ASTM and MIL‑STD guidelines.
• Ensure packaging meets durability and environmental protection needs for global and expeditionary deployment conditions.
• Collaborate closely with mechanical engineering, manufacturing, and logistics teams to integrate packaging seamlessly into production workflows.
• Create BOMs, packaging instructions, and assembly documentation for internal and supplier use.
• Support material selection and supplier qualification for foam, corrugate, composite and protective case suppliers.
• Diagnose and resolve packaging-related issues from production or field feedback, driving continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with defense packaging standards and export regulations.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering or related
• 3 – 6 years of packaging design experience (aerospace, defense or similar industries preferred)
• Experience with packaging presentation and producing high-quality visuals
• Proficiency with CAD design tools such as SolidWorks or NX.
• Knowledge of ISTA, ASTM or MIL‑STD environmental and transport testing standards.
• Strong understanding of cushioning design, shock/vibration mitigation and protective case engineering.
• Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong documentation, organization and project‑management skills.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience packaging sensitive electronics, optics, avionics or UAV subsystems.
• Familiarity with MIL‑STD‑2073, MIL‑STD‑129 and other DoD packaging/marking requirements.
• Experience with DFMA/DFX, cost modeling or supplier sourcing strategies.
• Prior experience in defense, aerospace or regulated manufacturing environment.
• Design portfolio with examples of design work

REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH BENEFITS 

• Matching 401(k)
• Paid PTO
• Paid holidays
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Group Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• HSA and FSA Options
• Critical Care Plan
• Accident Care Plan

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS

This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). To comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person’s status under the ITAR and the EAR. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 

The work environment may involve a standard office setting while also incorporating elements of a production area. Employees will use standard office equipment, including computers, and must demonstrate stamina to sit or stand while maintaining attention to detail despite potential interruptions. The role may require occasional activities such as walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, and bending. Vision is necessary for reading printed materials and a computer screen, while hearing and speech are essential for effective communication both in person and over the telephone. Additionally, the position may necessitate travel by air or automobile. Employees may be required to use personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coats, to ensure safety in the production environment. Employees may be able to lift up to 30 pounds as needed. 

REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Redwire Defense Tech is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact Human Resources. Continued employment remains on an “At-Will” basis.