Lead Product Design Engineer

Lead Product Design Engineer – Where Innovation Meets Precision

Design. Engineer. Lead. Build products shooters can feel.

Our client is a fast-growing CNC firearm manufacturer obsessed with accuracy, innovation, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. If you're equal parts mechanical mastermind, design visionary, and hands-on problem solver — this role has your name on it.

As our Product Design Engineer Lead, you’ll transform bold ideas into next-generation firearms and accessories. From sketching concepts to turning CNC-machined reality, you'll take every step of the design journey — balancing ergonomics, aesthetics, precision performance, and manufacturability.

You'll help shape the future of our product line, lead a design team that thrives on creativity and quality, and set engineering standards that scale as we grow.

What You’ll Do

• Dream it. Design it. Launch it. Lead the creation of industry-leading firearms & components from concept to production.
• Build and refine 3D CAD models (SolidWorks/Fusion 360) that make machinists smile and engineers nod in approval.
• Integrate industrial design & ergonomics so products don’t just work—they feel right in the user’s hands.
• Drive DFM/DFA initiatives to optimize cost, precision, and speed without sacrificing quality.
• Partners with CNC pros, machinists, QA, R&D, and leadership to perfect designs for real-world performance.
• Oversee prototype cycles, testing (bench, field, & durability), and implement fast iteration improvements.
• Own technical documentation: drawings, BOMs, revisions, reports, you know, the stuff that keeps things moving.
• Stay ahead of materials, coatings, additive technologies, and firearm innovation trends.
• Lead, mentor, and inspire engineers/designers to deliver their best work.
• Ensure every design meets regulatory compliance (ATF, SAAMI, ITAR) and safety standards.

What You Bring

• Bachelors in mechanical/industrial/manufacturing engineering (or similar).
• 5 years designing precision mechanical systems—firearms or high-tolerance products are a big plus.
• Pro-level CAD experience (SolidWorks preferred).
• Deep knowledge of GD&T and machining for tight-tolerance parts.
• Real-world CNC programming/setup experience.
• Prototype development, testing, and validation expertise.
• Natural ability to blend mechanical engineering with creative product design.
• Strong documentation, problem-solving, and collaboration chops.
• Eligible to work with controlled firearm components.

Bonus Points For

• Designing pistols or tactical components.
• Love for shooting sports, competition, or defense applications.
• Experience with FEA or simulation tools.
• Hands-on rapid prototyping (3D print, CNC, polymer systems).
• CAD/CAM software mastery (SolidWorks, Mastercam, Fusion 360).
• Leadership in engineering teams or product launches.

Work Environment

• Hands-on shop & prototype build presence required.
• Able to lift up to 35 lbs.
• Occasional travel (field testing, vendor visits, customer demos).
• Focused work required during testing and design review phases.

Why You'll Love It Here

• You’ll build products that people depend on.
• You’ll work with cutting-edge manufacturing tech.
• You’ll lead design innovation—not just follow it.
• You’ll join a passionate, collaborative team with high standards and even higher ambitions.

Ready to engineer the future of precision firearms? Apply now and let’s launch something exceptional.