Lead Composite Structures Engineer – Defense Systems

Karman; Horsham, Northern (PA, KY); Hybrid; USD 130,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical/Dental/Vision

401(k) match

Paid time off

HSA with company contribution

FSA

Life and AD&D insurance

Disability coverage

Job summary

Karman Space & Defense is seeking a Principal Manufacturing Engineer in Horsham, PA to lead advanced composite structures and sustaining mechanical integrity across programs. You will act as SME in composites, guide technical strategy, mentor staff, and ensure high-quality deliverables for mission-critical systems.

The role follows a 9/80 schedule with long weekdays, and requires 15+ years in composite structural analysis, ABAQUS, and defense industry experience.

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.

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.

Skills

Composite materials

Structural analysis

Finite elements

ABAQUS

Python

Fortran

C++

Technical leadership

Mentoring

Project oversight

Education

Advanced degree in Engineering

Tools

ABAQUS

Mathematica

Python

Fortran

C++

Job description

Karman Space & Defense is seeking a Principal Manufacturing Engineer in Horsham, PA to lead advanced composite structures and sustaining mechanical integrity across programs. You will act as SME in composites, guide technical strategy, mentor staff, and ensure high-quality deliverables for mission-critical systems.

The role follows a 9/80 schedule with long weekdays, and requires 15+ years in composite structural analysis, ABAQUS, and defense industry experience.