Quality Engineer

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 Space and Launch business, which has contributed to the nation’s space programs for decades by delivering complete solutions from concept to flight. We enable successful space operations with mission-critical technology supporting every step from first launch to final landing, including launch vehicle subsystems, propulsion systems, aerodynamic and interstage systems, and payload protection and deployment. Our high-performance solutions are engineered to operate in the most extreme environments and meet precise mission requirements.

The Quality Engineer supports product conformity, safety, and continuous improvement by maintaining quality processes, conducting audits, driving corrective actions, and ensuring compliance with customer and industry requirements. The role works closely with engineering, manufacturing, suppliers, and internal stakeholders to uphold quality standards and strengthen quality assurance activities throughout the product realization process.

Responsibilities

• Maintains and implements AS9100 procedures and supports continuous improvement efforts.
• Provides training to support customer satisfaction, first‑time quality, and on‑time delivery.
• Reviews and maintains internal quality planning.
• Oversees and verifies corrective action activities.
• Performs shop traveler reviews.
• Conducts internal audits and prepares for external audits.
• Supports manufacturing with inspection and engineering needs, including configuration management and build processes.
• Reviews purchase orders to ensure quality requirements are properly incorporated.
• Prepares and submits nonconformance data.
• Investigates and responds to internal corrective actions.
• Prepares customer data packages and other required quality submittals.
• Interfaces with suppliers and supports issue resolution.
• Performs vendor source inspections as required.
• Builds strong quality assurance processes focused on quality at the point of manufacture.
• Provides floor assembly support and evaluates potential impacts of product failures.

Required Qualifications

• Four-year degree or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Experience in quality control or quality assurance in a manufacturing environment, or related training.
• Experience implementing or managing ISO quality systems.
• Detail‑oriented, organized, and able to communicate effectively with all levels of staff and management.
• Working knowledge of ISO9001:2000 and AS9100 (current revision).
• Knowledge of customer and supplier audits, specifications, and processes.
• Ability to conduct formal training on changes and customer requirements.
• Understanding of Quality Management System (QMS) reporting, record keeping, and process adherence.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds.

Special Mentions

• No travel is required for this position.

This position requires U.S. person status under U.S. export control laws, including U.S. citizens and nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.

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.