Design Engineer – Firearm Components & Precision Systems

Overview

Job Title:

Design Engineer – Firearm Components & Precision Systems

Location:

Troy, AL

Classification:
Exempt

Grade:
Salary

Department:
Engineering – Firearms Design

Reports To:

Engineering Manager
- Handgun NPD

Summary/Objective:
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Design Engineer with 3 to 8 years of experience in the design and development of firearm components, defense systems, or precision mechanical assemblies. The Design Engineer will play a key role in the New Product Development (NPD) process, contributing to the design, prototyping, testing, and refinement of innovative firearm platforms and components.

• Lead and support the design of firearm components and assemblies from concept through production.
• Develop detailed 3D CAD models and 2D drawings using Solid Works or similar software.
• Perform tolerance stack-ups, FEA, and design-for-manufacturing (DFM) analysis.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including product management, manufacturing, purchasing, quality, and testing to ensure design intent and performance.
• Participate in design reviews, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support prototype development and testing, including hands-on troubleshooting and iteration.
• Maintain accurate documentation and revision control throughout the product lifecycle.
• Stay current with industry trends, materials, and manufacturing technologies relevant to firearms and precision systems.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• 3–8 years of experience in product design, preferably in firearms, defense, or precision mechanical systems.
• Proficiency in CAD software (Solid Works preferred).
• Strong understanding of mechanical design principles, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with GD&T, FEA, and DFM/DFA methodologies.
• Familiarity with firearms design, ballistics, and regulatory standards (e.g., ATF, MIL-STD) is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills:
  Demonstrated ability to work as part of a cross-functional team, but also able to work independently. Good communication skills.
• Experience with additive manufacturing and rapid prototyping.
• Knowledge of metallurgy, surface treatments, and coatings used in firearms.
• Experience with PLM systems and design control processes.
• Passion for firearms and innovation.
• Hands-on experience with firearms assembly, testing, and evaluation.
• Exposure to defense industry standards and documentation practices.
• Microsoft Office Skills, proficiency using Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook for tasks such as document creation, data analysis, presentations, and email management.

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 3–8 years of experience in product design, preferably in firearms, defense, or precision mechanical systems.

Preferred:

• Master’s degree

Attendance is an essential job requirement defined as having regular, consistent, reliable, punctual and predictable attendance including the ability to work regular hours and shifts, overtime before and after shifts and on weekends. Ability to work as part of a team, including all related departments/plants or independently as required to achieve internal and external customer satisfaction.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. While performing the duties of the job the employee works in a manufacturing environment and may be exposed to fumes or airborne particles, moving mechanical parts and vibration.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable…