Position: Project Engineer – Firearms Industry
Location: IA
Job Type:Full-Time
Reports To: Director of Engineering
Salary: Competitive, Based on Experience Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, 401(k), PTO, Employee Discount
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About the Role
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Project Engineer with a minimum of 5 years of experience in small arms engineering. This role will focus on the design, development, testing, and refinement of firearms and firearm components for both commercial and defense markets. The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of mechanical systems, materials, and manufacturing processes, with a passion for firearms innovation and performance.
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Key Responsibilities
· Lead the design and development of new firearms and related systems from concept through production.
· Develop detailed 3D models, assemblies, and technical drawings using SolidWorks or equivalent CAD software.
· Conduct engineering analysis (e.g., FEA, tolerance stack-ups, DFM/DFA) to ensure durability, manufacturability, and performance.
· Participate in prototyping, testing, and iterative improvement of products.
· Collaborate with cross-functional teams including manufacturing, quality, and product management to ensure product requirements are met.
· Support testing protocols including reliability, accuracy, environmental exposure, and safety validation.
· Research new materials, coatings, and technologies applicable to firearms design.
· Maintain accurate engineering documentation and change control processes.
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Required Qualifications
· Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (Master’s degree a plus).
· Minimum 5 years of experience in firearms design and engineering.
· Proficiency with SolidWorks or similar CAD platforms.
· Deep understanding of small arms systems, including gas systems, recoil mechanisms, and metallurgy.
· Experience with machining, injection molding, metal treatments, and finishing processes.
· Familiarity with relevant standards and compliance requirements (e.g., ATF, MIL-STD, SAAMI).
· Strong problem-solving and communication skills.
· U.S. Citizen or lawful permanent resident (due to ITAR regulations).
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Preferred Qualifications
· Experience with military or LE product development.
· Hands-on firearms assembly, testing, or competition shooting experience.
· Knowledge of additive manufacturing techniques.
· Patent or published design work in the firearms industry.
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Why Join Us?
This is a chance to be part of a passionate, innovative team working at the cutting edge of firearms technology. You'll contribute to exciting projects that push the limits of performance and reliability in a fast-paced, supportive environment.
You may contact me directly at Amanda.Moore@gogpac.com or call me at 281-975-6518
All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations. GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.
