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.
In this role, you help ensure products are designed and built for efficient, reliable production from early development through full‑rate manufacturing. You contribute engineering support that strengthens process capability, enhances producibility, and supports ongoing improvements that maintain quality throughout the product lifecycle.
Responsibilities
• Supports product design teams by driving design for manufacturability and influencing early development decisions.
• Mentors junior manufacturing engineers to build team capability and technical proficiency.
• Establishes, monitors, and validates production processes and controls as a process owner or subject matter expert.
• Designs, develops, and implements complex fixtures, tools, and inspection gages for fabrication and assembly.
• Coordinates material and resource planning with product teams to support schedule adherence.
• Leads manufacturing workflow planning and production line setup to optimize operational efficiency.
• Solves complex technical problems using engineering references, data, and inspection tools.
• Collaborates with engineers across disciplines to represent manufacturing requirements and ensure cohesive technical execution.
Required Qualifications
• Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or an equivalent field.
• Minimum 4 years of relevant industry experience.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and hands‑on engineering experience in a fabrication and assembly shop environment.
• Ability to read and generate blueprints, drawings, and technical diagrams.
• Familiarity with basic material properties, in‑process verification, and validation.
• Proficiency in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• A current U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one.
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.
Skills Required
- Bachelor of Science degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or an equivalent field
- Minimum 4 years of relevant industry experience
- Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on engineering experience in a fabrication and assembly shop environment
- Ability to read and generate blueprints, drawings, and technical diagrams
- Familiarity with basic material properties, in-process verification, and validation
- Proficiency in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
- Current U.S. Department of Defense Secret security clearance or ability to obtain and maintain one
Karman Space & Defense Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Karman Space & Defense and has not been reviewed or approved by Karman Space & Defense.
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Retirement Support — Feedback suggests immediate 401(k) vesting and a profit-sharing plan are meaningful strengths that enhance long-term financial security. Multiple medical-plan options and disability coverage further indicate solid core protections.
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Healthcare Strength — Feedback suggests a range of health-plan choices (PPO, HMO, HDHP) and disability coverage provide flexibility and security. These offerings are positioned as competitive within the aerospace and defense context.
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Wellbeing & Lifestyle Benefits — Feedback suggests tuition reimbursement for undergraduate and graduate education supports professional growth and overall wellbeing. Company events and perks are occasionally noted alongside core benefits.
Karman Space & Defense Insights
What We Do
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’s core mission priorities and meet our nation’s 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 130space and defense programs. For more information, visit our website at Karman-SD.com.
