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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Gun Engineer

💰 $75,000 - $150,000+

EngineeringManufacturingDefenseFirearms DesignMechanical Engineering

🎯 Role Definition

A Gun Engineer is a specialized mechanical or manufacturing engineer who is the creative and technical force behind the development of firearms. This role involves conceptualizing, designing, analyzing, and refining firearms, components, and accessories. From the initial sketch to the final production-ready model, the Gun Engineer blends the principles of physics, material science, and precision manufacturing to create products that are safe, reliable, and performant. They are problem-solvers at their core, tasked with pushing the boundaries of innovation while adhering to stringent industry standards and regulatory requirements.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Mechanical Engineer
  • Manufacturing Engineer
  • Junior Design Engineer
  • Quality Engineer

Advancement To:

  • Senior Gun Engineer / Principal Engineer
  • Engineering Project Manager
  • Research & Development (R&D) Manager
  • Director of Engineering

Lateral Moves:

  • Ballistics Engineer
  • Product Manager (Firearms)
  • Quality Assurance Manager
  • Manufacturing Process Engineer

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Spearhead the design and development of new firearms, components, and accessories from initial concept through to full production release.
  • Utilize advanced 3D CAD software (such as SolidWorks, Creo, or Pro/ENGINEER) to create intricate component and assembly models, ensuring precise and functional designs.
  • Generate and maintain comprehensive 2D manufacturing drawings, applying a deep understanding of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) to ensure part interchangeability and manufacturability.
  • Conduct detailed engineering analysis, including stress/strain (FEA), tolerance stack-ups, and kinematic simulations, to validate design integrity and performance before prototyping.
  • Develop and manage detailed project timelines, resource plans, and budgets to ensure new product development initiatives are delivered on schedule and within financial constraints.
  • Collaborate closely with the manufacturing team to implement Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles, optimizing designs for cost-effective, high-volume production.
  • Create and execute rigorous test plans and procedures to validate the function, reliability, safety, and durability of prototypes and pre-production units.
  • Meticulously document all phases of the design process, including design history files, test results, and engineering change notices (ECNs), for regulatory compliance and internal knowledge transfer.
  • Perform root cause analysis and failure investigation on existing products or during development testing, implementing corrective and preventative actions to resolve issues.
  • Research and select appropriate materials (metals, polymers, composites) and manufacturing processes (CNC machining, MIM, injection molding) for components to meet performance and cost targets.
  • Interface directly with external suppliers and vendors to source components, troubleshoot manufacturing issues, and ensure the quality of incoming parts.
  • Stay abreast of industry trends, competitor products, and emerging technologies to drive innovation and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
  • Prepare and present detailed technical design reviews and project status updates to cross-functional teams and senior leadership.
  • Ensure all designs comply with relevant industry standards (SAAMI/C.I.P.), federal regulations (ATF/NFA), and, if applicable, military specifications.
  • Lead or participate in rapid prototyping efforts, utilizing techniques like 3D printing and quick-turn machining to accelerate the design-build-test cycle.
  • Develop comprehensive technical data packages (TDPs) that include all necessary models, drawings, specifications, and process documentation for seamless transition to production.
  • Analyze and interpret data from live-fire testing, high-speed video, and data acquisition systems to objectively evaluate performance and inform design revisions.
  • Provide direct engineering support to the production floor to resolve any technical issues that arise during assembly or manufacturing.
  • Contribute to the development of intellectual property by documenting novel design concepts and supporting the patent application process.
  • Manage multiple design projects concurrently, effectively prioritizing tasks to meet competing deadlines in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Secondary Functions

  • Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior engineers, interns, and designers within the engineering department.
  • Support the sales and marketing teams by providing in-depth technical information, product specifications, and content for marketing materials.
  • Participate in industry events, trade shows (e.g., SHOT Show), and professional conferences to represent the company and network with industry peers.
  • Contribute to the organization's long-term product strategy and technology roadmap by identifying new opportunities and potential areas for R&D.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • 3D CAD Proficiency: Expert-level skill in 3D solid modeling software, specifically SolidWorks or PTC Creo, including assemblies, advanced surfacing, and sheet metal.
  • Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T): Deep understanding and practical application of ASME Y14.5 standards for creating unambiguous manufacturing drawings.
  • Finite Element Analysis (FEA): Experience using simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, SolidWorks Simulation) to perform structural, thermal, and dynamic analysis on components and assemblies.
  • Manufacturing Process Knowledge: Strong familiarity with a variety of manufacturing methods, including multi-axis CNC machining, Metal Injection Molding (MIM), polymer injection molding, stamping, and finishing processes.
  • Material Science: Working knowledge of the properties, applications, and heat treatment of engineering materials, including various steels, aluminum alloys, titanium, and high-strength polymers.
  • Firearms Knowledge: A thorough understanding of the mechanics, cycle of operation, and design principles for various firearm action types (e.g., pistols, rifles, shotguns).
  • Test & Evaluation: Hands-on ability to design experiments, execute live-fire testing protocols, and operate data acquisition (DAQ) equipment.
  • Tolerance Analysis: Competency in performing detailed tolerance stack-up analysis to ensure fit, function, and interchangeability of components.
  • Root Cause Analysis: Proficiency with structured problem-solving methodologies such as 8D, 5 Whys, or Fishbone Diagrams.
  • Project Management: Ability to manage project scope, schedule, and resources, often using software like MS Project or JIRA.

Soft Skills

  • Analytical Problem-Solving: The ability to dissect complex mechanical problems, identify root causes, and develop innovative and practical solutions.
  • Attention to Detail: An unwavering commitment to precision and accuracy in design, documentation, and analysis.
  • Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively collaborate with technical and non-technical colleagues, suppliers, and leadership.
  • Creativity & Innovation: A mindset that actively seeks out new ideas and better ways to design and build products.
  • Teamwork & Collaboration: A proven ability to work effectively within a cross-functional team environment, including manufacturing, quality, and marketing.
  • Adaptability: The flexibility to handle changing priorities, project requirements, and fast-paced development cycles.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree from an accredited university.

Preferred Education:

  • Master of Science (M.S.) degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Manufacturing Engineering
  • Aerospace Engineering

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-10+ years of professional engineering experience.

Preferred: Demonstrable experience in a new product development role, preferably within the firearms, defense, aerospace, or a related high-precision consumer product industry. A personal passion for and familiarity with firearms is highly advantageous.

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