Design Engineer

Kimber Mfg., Inc.Job Description Job Title: Design Engineer Location: Troy, ALClassification: ExemptGrade: Salary Department: Product Engineering Reports To: Engineering ManagerDate: September 4, 2026 SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE The Design Engineer should have 3 to 8 years of experience in design and development of firearm components, defense systems, or precision mechanical assemblies. The Design Engineer candidate will design, create solid models, detail components, and support the development of new firearms design or to improve Kimber’s current firearms products. The candidate will also 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. Provide engineering support for firearms product design and development of new gun products, line extensions, and product improvements. Specific responsibilities will include the generation and revision of CAD drawings and models, component inspection, prototype build and product testing. Utilize best practices, including DFM, DFA, stack analysis, etc. and interface with manufacturing, process engineering, vendors, etc. to ensure designs are optimized for cost, quality, and performance.  Manage bills of material and track component status. Coordinate with the engineering team and other Kimber functional areas to ensure that projects are completed on budget and in a timely manner. Other responsibilities may include writing of technical reports, creation of design spreadsheets, statistical analysis of test data and management presentations. Collaborate with manufacturing engineering to identify, communicate, and drive implementation of assembly improvements for new and current designs and to ensure on time delivery new products and improve first pass yield. Adhere and monitor SOP.  Effectively communicate and notify leadership when there are any discrepancies. Perform other duties as assigned, consistent with the leadership expectations of the role.SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities. QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 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. Must have working knowledge of MS Office applications. Strong teamwork and communication skills: Demonstrated ability to work as part of a cross-functional team, but also able to work independently.  Excellent communication skills both verbal and written. Must be able to work accurately and efficiently in a fast work environment that has the potential. to change due to regulatory and business needs. Need to be detail oriented and highly organized with the ability to multi-task.EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE Required:  Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or related field. 3 to 8 years of experience in product design, defense, or precision mechanical systems. Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks preferred).Preferred:  Master’s degree is preferred. Experience in firearm design. 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. TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS This position does not require travel.  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.