Principal Manufacturing Engineer

Karman Space and Defense

$120K — $145K *
Aerospace & Defense
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 15+ years of experience in composite structural analysis and mechanics of materials.
  • Expertise in structural analysis, material modeling, and advanced engineering practices.
  • Held senior technical roles (e.g., Technical Fellow, Engineering Specialist).
  • Advanced degree in Engineering or a related technical field required.
  • Extensive experience with defense organizations or government entities.
  • In-depth knowledge of composite materials, design, manufacturing, and testing.
  • Proficiency with ABAQUS and familiarity with Mathematica.

Responsibilities

  • Provide technical leadership as a subject matter expert in composites and structural analysis.
  • Develop advanced engineering solutions for complex challenges ensuring innovation.
  • Guide the development of engineering methodologies and processes.
  • Support the Chief Technical Officer with input on engineering performance.
  • Mentor engineering staff, fostering a culture of continuous learning.
  • Lead technical reviews, ensuring adherence to best practices.
  • Oversee major engineering projects to align with organizational objectives.

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.
Full Job Description
In this role, you will serve as a subject matter expert in composite materials, structural mechanics, and advanced engineering analysis. You will guide technical strategy, mentor engineering staff, and drive the development of methodologies that improve performance and expand capability. You will provide oversight on major projects, ensuring high-quality engineering outcomes aligned with organizational goals.

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
  • Provides technical leadership as a subject matter expert in composites, mechanics of materials, engineering design, and structural analysis, including finite element methods.
  • Develops advanced engineering solutions to complex technical challenges while ensuring innovation, accuracy, and timely execution.
  • Guides the creation and refinement of engineering methodologies, technologies, and processes.
  • Supports the Chief Technical Officer with input on engineering performance, training needs, and project team organization.
  • Mentors and develops engineering staff, promoting continuous learning and technical excellence.
  • Leads technical reviews and provides constructive feedback to ensure adherence to best practices.
  • Oversees major engineering projects to ensure alignment with strategic objectives.
  • Reviews and approves critical drawings, specifications, analyses, and technical reports.
  • Collaborates with cross-functional teams to support successful project execution and deliverables.
  • Maintains relationships with external partners and represents the organization at technical forums and conferences.

Required Qualifications
  • Minimum of 15 years of experience specializing in composite structural analysis and mechanics of materials.
  • Experience in structural analysis, material modeling, and advanced engineering practices.
  • Background in senior technical roles such as Technical Fellow, Engineering Specialist, Senior Structures Analyst, or equivalent.
  • Advanced degree in Engineering or a related technical field.
  • Extensive industry experience with defense organizations, including contractors or government entities.
  • In-depth understanding of composite materials, design, manufacturing, and testing.
  • Competency with ABAQUS.
  • Recommended familiarity with Mathematica.
  • Recommended programming knowledge in Python, Fortran, or C++.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with experience approving critical technical deliverables.
  • Exceptional communication skills for mentoring and collaboration.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in Engineering or a related technical field.

This position requires U.S. person status under U.S. export control laws, including U.S. citizens and nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.

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

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