Crosslinked

One of 8,158 open polymer and materials roles on Crosslinked, each read for materials, degree, visa and salary. See roles like this

KS

Additive Engineer

Karman Space & Defense · Huntsville, AL1mo agoverified 19 h ago
$80k – $100kfrom the posting

BS-level R&D / Research roles on Crosslinked list a median of $130k (392 that show pay).

Design, fabricate and characterize additive manufacturing and composite structures for naval defense systems

Apply

Weekly, free, one-click unsubscribe.

Apply

Worth knowing

Why it is interesting. Hands-on AM fabrication (LPBF, DED, FDM) plus composite structures for submarine and naval platforms, on a 9/80 schedule.

Might not be for you. Defense-focused, production-oriented AM work rather than polymer R&D; no polymer chemistry or formulation content.

Mostly at the benchGeneralist First industry roleBS acceptable

Adjacent materials roleFabricates AM components; conducts material characterization and testing; additive manufacturing (AM) and composite structures

Seniority
Entry level
Work
On-site
Type
Full-time
Degree
BS
Industry
Defense
Role
R&D / Research
Schedule
Compressed 9/80
Benefits
tuition reimbursementcompressed workweek

Role details

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies’ core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.

This role is part of our Maritime Defense Systems business, which delivers integrated solutions with decades of proven performance across submarine, surface, and autonomous naval platforms supporting high-priority national defense programs. Our bow-to-stern capabilities include acoustic and sonar protection systems, propulsion systems, advanced composite structures, missile subsystems, canisters and launchers, and autonomous underwater vehicle subsystems. From concept through production, we combine engineering, materials expertise, specialized manufacturing, and large-scale testing to deliver mission-ready systems that reduce technical risk and support long-term operational performance.

In this role, you will support the research and development of advanced material and fabrication solutions for defense applications, contributing to the design, production, and evaluation of additive manufacturing (AM) and composite structures. You will work hands-on with advanced materials and AM processes while collaborating with a broader technical team to deliver innovative material solutions.

Schedule

  • This role follows a 9/80 schedule, with 9-hour shifts Monday through Thursday, an 8-hour shift every other Friday, and the alternating Friday off.

Responsibilities

  • Designs and analyzes advanced material structures for additive manufacturing applications.
  • Fabricates AM components using production-grade equipment and processes.
  • Conducts material characterization and testing to validate performance.
  • Documents engineering work, test results, and fabrication processes.
  • Collaborates with cross-functional teams to deliver advanced material solutions.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent experience.
  • Knowledge of production-grade additive manufacturing equipment such as Laser Powder Bed Fusion, Direct Energy Deposition, and Fused Deposition.
  • Knowledge of computer-aided design (CAD) and finite element analysis (FEA) software.
  • Ability to develop, execute, and document Design of Experiments (DOE).
  • Ability to work independently and manage tasks to completion.
  • Effective communication skills to support teamwork and project objectives.
  • Fundamental understanding of mechanics of materials.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in Engineering.

This position requires U.S. person status under U.S. export control laws, including U.S. citizens and nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Company‑paid life and AD&D insurance
  • Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage
  • Tuition reimbursement

Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Related roles

Common questions

What is the salary for the Additive Engineer role at Karman Space & Defense?

The listed annual base salary range is $80K–$100K. This figure is taken from the posting itself.

Where is the Additive Engineer role at Karman Space & Defense based?

This role is based in Huntsville, AL.

What degree is required for the Additive Engineer role at Karman Space & Defense?

This role requires a BS.

What polymers or materials does this Additive Engineer role work with?

composites.

What techniques or methods are required for this Additive Engineer role?

material characterization, mechanical testing, design of experiments (DOE).