What are the responsibilities and job description for the Design Engineer – Firearm Components & Precision Systems position at Kimber Mfg., Inc. and Careers?
Why Join Us?
- Work on cutting-edge firearm technologies and contribute to industry-leading products.
- Be part of a passionate and experienced engineering team.
- Competitive compensation and benefits.
- Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
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.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead and support the design of firearm components and assemblies from concept through production.
- Develop detailed 3D CAD models and 2D drawings using SolidWorks 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.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
None
QUALIFICATIONS
- 3–8 years of experience in product design, preferably in firearms, defense, or precision mechanical systems.
- Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks 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.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
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
OTHER SKILLS & ABILITIES
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.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
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.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
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 individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to sit and use hands to touch, handle, or feel. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance and stoop, kneel, or crouch.
The employee is occasionally required to lift up to 50 pounds. The vision requirements include close vision and ability to adjust focus.
WORK AUTHORIZATION
This position requires compliance with the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). Must be a “U.S. Person” as defined by all pertinent regulations and are required to show proof substantiating this upon being hired.
OTHER DUTIES
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Activities, duties and/or responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice at the sole discretion of the Company.