Quality Manager

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.

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.

In this role, you will shape and lead the quality systems that ensure our most critical components meet customer requirements and AS9100 standards. You will drive continuous improvement, oversee audits and core Quality Management System (QMS) activities, guide customer-facing quality communications, and support production readiness across engineering, operations, and supply chain. Your leadership strengthens reliability, elevates team performance, and reinforces our commitment to industry‑leading quality.

Responsibilities

• Owns, maintains, and continuously improves the AS9100‑certified Quality Management System (QMS).
• Leads internal audits, management reviews, root cause and corrective actions (RCCA), and document control activities.
• Serves as the primary interface for customer, third‑party, and government audits, including preparation and corrective action follow‑up.
• Partners with Engineering and Operations on process reviews, risk management, configuration and change control, and production readiness.
• Oversees AS9102 First Article Inspection, nonconformance management, Material Review Board (MRB) activities, and RCCA.
• Supports manufacturing with process controls, inspection strategies, quality planning, and problem solving.
• Manages supplier quality activities including requirement flow‑downs, qualification, performance monitoring, and corrective actions.
• Leads and develops quality personnel with clear performance expectations and accountability.
• Monitors and communicates quality metrics and trends to identify opportunities for corrective and preventive improvements.
• Promotes a culture of quality ownership, prevention, and continuous improvement.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, quality, manufacturing, or a related field; equivalent combinations of education and experience considered.
• More than 4 years of progressive experience in quality within aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments.
• Experience maintaining, auditing, and improving an AS9100‑certified QMS.
• Experience leading or participating in internal, customer, or third‑party audits.
• Ability and willingness to work hands‑on in a small‑company environment.
• Excellent communication skills with a customer‑focused approach.
• Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making abilities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Quality Manager in the aerospace industry.
• Experience in precision machining or contract manufacturing environments.
• Experience managing or mentoring quality personnel.

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.