Manufacturing Engineer I

Job Description

Job Description

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 support engineering and production activities across the full design‑development lifecycle. You help develop manufacturing processes, create work instructions, and assist with transitioning designs into producible hardware. Your work ensures quality, efficiency, and consistency throughout fabrication and assembly operations.

Responsibilities

• Supports engineering, program, and production activities throughout the design‑development cycle.
• Generates bills of materials and creates work instructions for assemblies and manufacturing processes.
• Works closely with technicians and hardware during fabrication and assembly activities.
• Designs and develops basic fixtures, tools, and inspection gages to support manufacturing.
• Supports material and resource planning, including data entry for bills of materials and manufacturing methods.
• Coordinates material flow to support production needs.
• Communicates with cross‑functional teams to gather information, gain alignment, and implement solutions.
• Assists with prototype builds and evaluates materials and processes.
• Coordinates with suppliers and supports supplier quality activities.
• Monitors fabrication and production processes to ensure adherence to established controls.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or an equivalent field.
• 0–3 years of relevant industry experience.
• Strong mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to read blueprints, drawings, technical diagrams, and follow written and verbal instructions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands‑on engineering experience in a fabrication or 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

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.

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.