NDT Responsible Level 3 (X-Ray)

NDT Responsible Level III - Radiographic Testing (X-Ray)

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 Tactical Missiles and Integrated Defense Systems business, which designs and develops integrated missile and defense systems that support critical missions across air, land, and sea. We combine comprehensive analysis, engineering, and program execution capabilities to deliver mission-tailored solutions that reduce lead times, lower costs, and simplify complex multi-vendor supply chains. Backed by decades of flight-proven and fielded performance, we design and build mission-critical technologies including launch systems, propulsion, payload integration solutions, UAV components, missile subsystems, and Safe & Arm systems.

As an NDT Responsible Level III – Radiographic Testing (RT), you will serve as the technical authority for X-ray radiographic inspection across multiple facilities in the Western United States. Reporting to the Director of Enterprise Quality, you will lead the development and standardization of radiographic testing capabilities, oversee technical compliance and personnel certification, and help build a sustainable, highly capable RT organization. Working closely with Quality, Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, and Environmental Health and Safety (EHS), you will ensure inspection processes meet demanding aerospace and defense requirements while supporting product quality, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Serves as the company's Responsible Level III technical authority for Radiographic Testing (RT), providing technical direction on complex inspection challenges, customer requirements, and inspection methodologies.

• Develops, qualifies, approves, and maintains radiographic inspection procedures, techniques, exposure parameters, and standardized technical practices across multiple facilities.

• Defines technical requirements for X-ray inspection systems, evaluates equipment and imaging technologies, and supports equipment selection, procurement, installation, qualification, and implementation.

• Establishes and maintains RT personnel qualification and certification requirements in accordance with the company written practice and applicable industry standards.

• Leads the technical development, mentoring, and competency assessment of Level I, Level II, and Level III personnel while supporting workforce planning and organizational capability development.

• Oversees National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program (NADCAP) activities for RT, maintaining audit readiness, supporting accreditation requirements, and leading technical responses to audit findings.

• Ensures radiographic inspection methods, equipment, personnel, and records comply with applicable aerospace, customer, regulatory, and Quality Management System (QMS) requirements.

• Partners with Engineering and Manufacturing to develop effective radiographic inspection solutions for new products, processes, and evolving customer requirements.

• Leads technical investigations, root-cause analysis, and corrective actions related to radiographic inspection quality, process effectiveness, and compliance.

• Drives continuous improvement, technology adoption, and standardization initiatives to strengthen radiographic inspection capabilities, consistency, and efficiency across multiple locations.

Required Qualifications

• Current Level III certification in Radiographic Testing in accordance with the company's written practice.

• Significant experience performing or providing technical oversight of industrial X-ray radiography in aerospace, defense, or a similarly regulated manufacturing environment.

• Demonstrated experience developing, qualifying, and approving radiographic inspection techniques and procedures.

• Experience supporting NADCAP nondestructive testing accreditation, audit preparation, and compliance requirements.

• Strong technical knowledge of radiographic inspection principles, image quality, exposure techniques, and applicable aerospace nondestructive testing standards.

• Demonstrated ability to provide technical leadership, mentor personnel, and support technical competency development.

• Strong analytical, technical communication, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to travel between company facilities as required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, materials science, nondestructive testing, manufacturing, or a related technical discipline.

• Level III certification in additional nondestructive testing methods.

• Experience with digital radiography, computed radiography, or computed tomography (CT).

• Experience evaluating, selecting, qualifying, and implementing industrial X-ray inspection systems and related imaging technologies.

• Experience developing or leading radiographic testing operations across multiple manufacturing facilities.

• Familiarity with aerospace and defense customer requirements and AS9100 quality management systems.

Special Mentions

• Travel: Moderate travel, up to 25%, between company facilities throughout the Western United States.

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.