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Firearms Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SIG Sauer

Design Engineer II, Suppressors

Exeter, NH · On-site

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.

SigSauer

Design Engineer II, Suppressors

Exeter, NH

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.

MLS Technologies

Mechanical Design Engineer

Troy, AL

$61K - $82K/yr

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

Sturm, Ruger & Company

Product Design Engineer

Prescott, AZ · On-site

$127K - $152K/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 ...

CHRISTENSEN ARMS

SENIOR DESIGN ENGINEER

Gunnison, UT · On-site

Senior Design Engineer Location: Gunnison Utah Full-Time Position Summary Applies scientific ... Experience designing firearms is desired. * Experience in design for metal casting, composite and ...

GWYNEDD

Project Design Engineer

North Wales, PA

Gwynedd Manufacturing is seeking a talented and driven Mechanical Design Engineer to play a key ... firearms and knife production for government and law enforcement agencies. Backed by a stable and ...

GWYNEDD

Process Design Engineer

North Wales, PA

Department of Defense and federal law enforcement agencies with high-quality firearms and ... Position Summary We are seeking a Process Design Engineer with strong 3D modeling expertise and ...

Axon

Mechanical Design Engineer II

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$76K - $103K/yr

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 ...

Law Weapons Inc

Be Seen First

CAD-CAM / Manufacturing Engineer - Firearms Manufacturer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Law Weapons, a small firearms manufacturer in Aurora, IL. We build custom firearms for law ... That means CAD work in Fusion 360 , CAM programming, building fixtures, setting up jobs, running ...

Axon

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$90K - $124K/yr

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

Axon

Sr Mechanical Design Engineer II

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$90K - $124K/yr

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 ...

360 Precision

Be Seen First

CNC Programmer / Manufacturing Engineer

Warminster, PA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

We design, engineer, and manufacture premium precision rifles and firearm accessories using advanced CNC machining and innovative engineering. As we continue to expand, we are looking for a highly ...

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Firearms Design Engineer information

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$40.5K

$111.5K

$164.5K

How much do firearms design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for firearms design engineer in the United States is $111,500.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $139,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Firearms Design Engineer do?

A Firearms Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing firearms and their components. They use engineering principles and computer-aided design (CAD) software to create blueprints and prototypes of guns, ensuring that they meet safety, reliability, and regulatory standards. Their work often involves collaborating with manufacturing teams and conducting tests to verify the performance and durability of their designs. Additionally, they stay updated on industry advancements and legal regulations to ensure compliance and innovation in their projects.

What are some common challenges faced by Firearms Design Engineers when developing new products?

Firearms Design Engineers often encounter challenges balancing innovation with stringent safety regulations and manufacturability. Meeting performance standards while ensuring reliability and compliance with legal requirements can be complex and requires close collaboration with testing, manufacturing, and legal teams. Additionally, engineers must stay up-to-date with evolving materials and technology while keeping designs cost-effective for production. Attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills are essential in overcoming these industry-specific hurdles.

What is the difference between Firearms Design Engineer vs Gunsmith?

AspectFirearms Design EngineerGunsmith
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in firearm designTechnical training, gunsmithing certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, manufacturing facilitiesWorkshops, shooting ranges, repair shops
Industry UsageProduct development, R&D, manufacturingRepair, customization, maintenance

Firearms Design Engineers focus on creating and developing new firearm products using engineering principles, often working in labs and manufacturing settings. Gunsmiths specialize in repairing, customizing, and maintaining firearms, working directly with clients in workshops. While both roles require firearm knowledge, their daily tasks, skills, and work environments differ significantly.

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

To excel as a Firearms Design Engineer, a solid background in mechanical engineering, materials science, and manufacturing processes is essential, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, rapid prototyping tools, and knowledge of regulatory standards such as ATF guidelines are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork and communication skills set outstanding candidates apart. These competencies ensure the creation of safe, reliable, and innovative firearms that meet legal and performance standards.
Infographic showing various Firearms Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,500 per year, or $53.6 per hour.
Design Engineer II, Suppressors

Design Engineer II, Suppressors

SIG Sauer

Exeter, NH • On-site

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Sig Sauer rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 518 rated manufacturers

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 Work™. 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.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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