Engineer III – Ballistics (Secret Clearance Required)

Piper Companies is seeking a Ballistics Engineer III to support a federal defense research initiative focused on combat injury prevention and protective equipment development. This full-time onsite role is located in Fort Novosel, Alabama and offers the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research, including the design of advanced helmets to reduce brain trauma from helicopter crashes.

Responsibilities of the Ballistics Engineer III Include:

• Lead and support engineering projects involving internal, external, and terminal ballistics.
• Design and execute experiments, including test fixture development, data collection, and analysis.
• Use simulation software to model projectile trajectories and system behavior.
• Operate and maintain high-speed video (HSV), velocity gates, and custom data acquisition systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and present findings to stakeholders.
• Contribute to the development of protective equipment and injury mitigation technologies.

Qualifications of the Ballistics Engineer III Include:

Required:

• Active Secret clearance.
• Minimum Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering.
• Hands-on experience in ballistics, including one or more of the following:
  • Firearms or weapon systems
  • Ammunition or projectile design/testing
  • Simulation of projectile trajectories
  • Forensic analysis of bullet impacts
  • Defense or aerospace engineering roles
  • Military or law enforcement experience with munitions

Preferred:

• Experience with high-velocity projectiles and experimental setups.
• Familiarity with custom test rigs, sensors, and data acquisition systems.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks/CAD and MATLAB.
• Experience working with cadavers or comfort in such environments.
• Publications or documented project work in ballistics or related fields.

Compensation of the Ballistics Engineer III Includes:

• Pay Range: $30–$50/hr (based on experience and qualifications)
• Comprehensive Benefits: CIGNA Medical, Dental, Vision; 401k through ADP

This job opens for applications on 8/18/2025.

Applications for this job will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date.

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