Technical Designer Payload Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 Hypersonics and Strategic Missile Defense business, which designs, develops, and delivers highly dependable missile systems for hypersonic and strategic missile defense missions. We provide integrated, mission-ready hardware that brings together multiple technologies into unified systems engineered to perform in demanding operational environments. Our tip-to-tail capabilities include payload protection and deployment systems, propulsion systems, aerodynamic interstage systems, separation systems, missile subsystems, shroud systems, launch systems, and payload integration solutions.

As a Technical Designer, you support engineering, test, and program teams by creating accurate solid models and mechanical drawings, assisting with hardware procurement, and contributing to assembly and testing operations. Your work enables efficient development, qualification, and delivery of mission-critical hardware. If this blend of hands-on support, design work, and project coordination aligns with your experience and interests, we encourage you to apply.

Schedule

This role follows a 9/80 schedule, with 9-hour shifts Monday through Thursday, an 8-hour shift every other Friday, and the alternating Friday off.

Responsibilities

• Creates solid models and mechanical drawings to support proposals, presentations, and engineering development.
• Supports hardware procurement, including coordinating with machine shops and suppliers.
• Generates Bills of Materials (BOMs), solicits supplier quotes, tracks delivery schedules, and provides updates to Program Managers.
• Assists Development and Test Engineers during lab and field tests, including setup and teardown of sensors, cameras, fixtures, and test articles.
• Supports prototyping, hardware assembly, product development, testing, and qualification activities.
• Applies drawing conventions and geometric tolerances accurately in mechanical documentation.
• Creates Computer-Aided Design (CAD) drawings and models based on engineering requirements.
• Reads and interprets technical drawings and diagrams to support design and test activities.
• Works independently with minimal oversight while maintaining strong communication and customer support skills.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks with prior experience creating CAD drawings and models.
• Ability to read engineering drawings and technical diagrams.
• Familiarity with drawing conventions, including geometric tolerances.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem‑solving skills.
• Self‑motivated with the ability to multi‑task and work independently with minimal oversight.
• Good communication and customer relationship skills.
• A current U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree.
• Two or more years of experience working with SolidWorks.
• Prior experience supporting prototyping, assembly, development, or testing operations.

Special Mentions

• This role requires moderate travel (10–20%).

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.