CAD Specialist

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 Maritime Defense Systems business, which delivers integrated solutions with decades of proven performance across submarine, surface, and autonomous naval platforms supporting high-priority national defense programs. Our bow-to-stern capabilities include acoustic and sonar protection systems, propulsion systems, advanced composite structures, missile subsystems, canisters and launchers, and autonomous underwater vehicle subsystems. From concept through production, we combine engineering, materials expertise, specialized manufacturing, and large-scale testing to deliver mission-ready systems that reduce technical risk and support long-term operational performance.

As a Designer - Advanced Structures, you will develop engineering drawings and three-dimensional models used to fabricate advanced metallic and composite structures. Working closely with engineering and manufacturing teams, you will help mature products from initial concepts through prototype fabrication and deliver practical, manufacturable designs that meet customer and program requirements.

Responsibilities

• Develops new products in collaboration with engineers, progressing designs from initial concepts through prototype fabrication.
• Creates detailed three-dimensional part and assembly models and manufacturing drawings using SolidWorks.
• Executes design revisions and engineering change updates based on customer feedback, manufacturing requirements, and engineering evaluations.
• Resolves drawing discrepancies, design challenges, and production issues in partnership with fabrication and manufacturing teams.
• Manages design data, engineering drawings, and product documentation using Product Data Management (PDM) systems and established document-control processes.
• Supports the development of metallic and composite material designs.

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree in design, engineering technology, mechanical design, or a related field.
• Minimum of three years of experience creating SolidWorks three-dimensional models and engineering drawings.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks part modeling, assembly design, and manufacturing drawing creation.
• Strong understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles and their application to engineering drawings and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to understand and communicate the importance of tolerance stack-ups and their effect on part fit, function, and assembly.
• Familiarity with PDM systems and engineering document management.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across engineering, design, and manufacturing teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in design, engineering technology, mechanical design, or a related field.
• Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA) or Certified SolidWorks Professional (CSWP) certification.
• Working knowledge of non-metallic materials, including polymers and fiber-reinforced composites.

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

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.