Manufacturing Engineer I

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 Hypersonics and Strategic Missile Defense business, which designs, develops, and delivers highly dependable missile systems for hypersonic and strategic missile defense missions. We provide integrated, mission-ready hardware that brings together multiple technologies into unified systems engineered to perform in demanding operational environments. Our tip-to-tail capabilities include payload protection and deployment systems, propulsion systems, aerodynamic interstage systems, separation systems, missile subsystems, shroud systems, launch systems, and payload integration solutions.

As a Manufacturing Engineer I, you support product development and production activities by helping ensure designs are manufacturable, processes are effective, and quality is built into every product. Working closely with engineering, manufacturing, technicians, suppliers, and program teams, you contribute to developing manufacturing methods, production documentation, tooling, and processes that support successful product transition from development into production.

Responsibilities

• Supports engineering, manufacturing, and product development activities across multiple programs and products.
• Generates bills of materials, work instructions, and build documentation to support production operations.
• Collaborates closely with technicians and works directly with hardware during fabrication and assembly activities.
• Designs, develops, and implements basic fixtures, tooling, and inspection gages to support manufacturing processes.
• Supports material and resource planning activities, including enterprise resource planning (ERP) system bill of material and method-of-manufacture data maintenance.
• Coordinates material flow and supports production readiness efforts.
• Assists with prototype builds and evaluates materials and manufacturing processes.
• Coordinates with vendors, suppliers, and supplier quality representatives to support production requirements.
• Monitors fabrication and production processes to help ensure compliance with established controls.
• Communicates effectively across the organization to gather information, gain alignment, and support implementation of solutions.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or an equivalent field.
• Typically 0–3 years of relevant industry experience.
• Strong mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to read blueprints, drawings, and technical diagrams and follow verbal and written instructions.
• A current U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on engineering experience in a fabrication and assembly shop environment.

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.