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Firearm Design Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Senior Mechanical Engineer II

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$105K - $139K/yr

Knowledge in the design of plastic injection molded, stamped metal, die-cast, and machined parts ... Some roles may also require legal eligibility to work in a firearms environment. We collect ...

Sr Industrial Engineer III

Tucson, AZ

$40.50 - $55.25/hr

... Design, or Process Optimization * The ability to obtain and maintain a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) clearance Qualifications We Prefer · * Bachelor's or Master's degree ...

Participation in Design for Manufacturing activities * Manufacturing process development to ensure ... Ability to obtain and maintain a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Access (ATF ...

Sr Industrial Engineer III

Tucson, AZ

$40.50 - $55.25/hr

... Design, or Process Optimization * The ability to obtain and maintain a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) clearance Qualifications We Prefer · * Bachelor's or Master's degree ...

Participation in Design for Manufacturing activities * Manufacturing process development to ensure ... Ability to obtain and maintain a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Access (ATF ...

Sr Industrial Engineer III

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$40.50 - $55.25/hr

... Design, or Process Optimization * The ability to obtain and maintain a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) clearance Qualifications We Prefer • * Bachelor's or Master's degree ...

Industrial Engineer II

Phoenix, AZ

$69K - $93K/yr

... Firearms and Explosives (ATF) clearance Qualifications We Prefer · * Excellent written and oral communication skills * Experience/Education with factory layout and work cell design/optimization

Industrial Engineer II

Tucson, AZ

$66K - $89K/yr

... Firearms and Explosives (ATF) clearance Qualifications We Prefer · * Excellent written and oral communication skills * Experience/Education with factory layout and work cell design/optimization

Industrial Engineer II

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$66K - $89K/yr

... Firearms and Explosives (ATF) clearance Qualifications We Prefer • * Excellent written and oral communication skills * Experience/Education with factory layout and work cell design/optimization

Participation in Design for Manufacturing activities * Manufacturing process development to ensure ... Ability to obtain and maintain a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Access (ATF ...

Industrial Engineer II

Tucson, AZ

$66K - $89K/yr

... Firearms and Explosives (ATF) clearance Qualifications We Prefer · * Excellent written and oral communication skills * Experience/Education with factory layout and work cell design/optimization

Sr Industrial Engineer III

Phoenix, AZ

$42.50 - $58/hr

... Design, or Process Optimization * The ability to obtain and maintain a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) clearance Qualifications We Prefer · * Bachelor's or Master's degree ...

Senior Electrical Engineer I

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$108K - $141K/yr

Design and build custom test systems for measuring the performance of our electronics systems ... Some roles may also require legal eligibility to work in a firearms environment. We collect ...

Mechanical Design Engineers at Axon have full design ownership over next generation life-saving ... Some roles may also require legal eligibility to work in a firearms environment. We collect ...

Collaborate with the design team to ensure compliance with standards. * Interface with vendors and ... Basic knowledge of firearm mechanics. Work Environment Work in a small, entrepreneurial company ...

Collaborate with the design team to ensure compliance with standards. * Interface with vendors and ... Basic knowledge of firearm mechanics. Work Environment Work in a small, entrepreneurial company ...

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Showing results 1-20

Firearm Design information

See Arizona salary details

$11

$18

$26

How much do firearm design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for firearm design in Arizona is $18.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Firearm Design?

Professionals in Firearm Design often navigate challenges such as staying updated with evolving safety and compliance regulations, integrating new materials or manufacturing technologies, and balancing performance with cost-effectiveness. They frequently work as part of multidisciplinary teams, collaborating with engineers, prototyping specialists, and quality control experts to ensure product safety and reliability. Adapting quickly to feedback from testing and prototyping can also be a regular part of the process. Overcoming these challenges leads to innovative and compliant firearm designs that meet both company and consumer expectations.

What job designs firearms?

A firearm designer is a professional who develops and improves firearm models, focusing on aspects such as safety, reliability, and ergonomics. They often work with CAD software, prototype testing, and adhere to strict safety and regulatory standards during the design process.

How do you become a gun designer?

To become a firearm designer, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, industrial design, or a related field, along with experience in CAD software and firearm mechanics. Gaining knowledge of firearm safety regulations and working in related manufacturing or design roles can also be beneficial for entering the field.

What is a Firearm Design job?

A Firearm Design job involves creating, developing, and testing firearms and related components for functionality, safety, and performance. Engineers and designers in this field work with materials, ballistics, and mechanical systems to improve firearm efficiency and reliability. They often use CAD software, conduct prototype testing, and ensure compliance with government regulations. This role requires knowledge of manufacturing processes, metallurgy, and firearm mechanics to produce innovative and safe designs.

What is the highest paid design job?

In firearm design, senior roles such as Lead Firearm Designer or R&D Manager tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures, especially in defense or aerospace industries. These positions typically require advanced engineering skills, experience, and sometimes security clearances, with compensation reflecting expertise and responsibility.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Firearm Design position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Firearm Design, you need expertise in mechanical engineering, materials science, and ballistics principles, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related technical field. Proficiency with CAD software, 3D modeling tools, and knowledge of industry safety standards and certifications such as ITAR compliance are essential. Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and attention to detail, combined with effective teamwork and communication abilities, set top designers apart. These skills are crucial for developing innovative, safe, and reliable firearms that meet regulatory and user requirements.

How much do firearm designers make?

Firearm designers typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Advanced skills in CAD software and knowledge of firearm mechanics can lead to higher salaries in this specialized field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Firearm Design jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Firearm Design jobs in Arizona are:
Sr Principal Manufacturing Engineer

Sr Principal Manufacturing Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Mesa, AZ • On-site

$90K - $123K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 353 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 528 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: NoCLEARANCE TYPE: NoneTRAVEL: Yes, 25% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

At Northrop Grumman Defense Systems we are seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineer to support our Armament Business site located in Mesa, AZ.

Armament Systems is a leading supplier of integrated medium-caliber weapon systems for land, air and sea platforms through its world-renowned Bushmaster line of automatic cannons produced at its Mesa, Arizona facility.

Role Description:

This Manufacturing Engineering position is for an engineering role on medium caliber gun system programs within the Armament Systems Division. As part of the Systems Engineering group, the Manufacturing Engineer supports design, production, and supplier development activities.

Responsibilities

The Manufacturing Liaison Engineering position carries the following set of primary responsibilities:

  • Works with design, project, manufacturing and quality engineers through the product development process to ensure Design to Cost (DTC) and Design for Assembly/Manufacturing (DFA/DFM) targets are achieved
  • Provide guidance to design engineering regarding design concepts and product specification requirements to best utilize equipment and manufacturing techniques
  • Understands and interprets engineering drawings and recommend design changes to increase product manufacturability and functionality
  • Prepares cost estimates and written technical proposals for product improvement initiatives
  • Reviews drawings , Engineering Change Orders, and work instructions for accuracy and completeness
  • Participates and/or leads disposition of non-conforming production parts
  • Acts as a technical interface to internal production personnel and to external suppliers
  • Develops technical relationships with internal production personnel and with external suppliers
  • Supports manufacturing trade studies and early supplier involvement
  • Shares knowledge with other engineers
  • Understands and interprets engineering drawings and recommend design changes to increase product manufacturability and functionality

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Science in Industrial, Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, or related STEM field of study
  • 8+ years or Master's plus 6+ yrs of relevant industry experience
  • Understanding of GD&T
  • Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software, preferably NX
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Project, and Power Point.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills with ability to focus on multiple projects and deliver status on risk areas and required actions
  • Hands-on assembly/fabrication and familiarity with mechanical/electrical processes, internal workflows, and supplier/customer management.
  • Demonstrated effectiveness in achieving results through understanding and management of internal processes and customer/supplier relationships
  • U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance
  • Position may require domestic and international travel, <25%
  • Must be able to obtain clearance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and Explosives as an Employee Possessor.
  • Candidates hired into this role need to complete a Gun Control Act Self Certification form.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Materials, heat treatment, and plating processes.
  • Military and commercial specifications
  • Demonstrated experience with manufacturing processes, such as machining, turning, and grinding.
  • Knowledge of IPC-620 and IPC J-STD-001 requirements
  • Mechanical design experience with complex gear trains, cams, springs, clutches, machined components, welded structures, electric motors and solenoids
  • Experience in product development projects and sustainment of legacy programs for complex aerospace or defense systems
  • General understanding of continuous improvement, Six Sigma and Lean methodologies in a low volume, high mix, engineer to order, manufacturing environment
  • Experience with shop routing paperwork in a low-level kitting and assembly/processing environment
  • Familiar with Material Review Boards (MRB) for product/quality deviation
  • Experience in Machine shop, Material process, and MIL-SPEC interpretation is highly desired
Primary Level Salary Range: $111,700.00 - $167,500.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939