CMM Programmer / Operator

Job Description Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology and leverage proven, cutting‑edge methodologies to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost‑effective solutions to market. General Job Summary The CMM Programmer is responsible for developing, validating, and executing Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) inspection programs used to verify dimensional conformance of components, subassemblies, and propulsion system hardware. This role ensures accurate measurement of precision components in accordance with engineering drawings, GD&T requirements, and AS9100 quality standards. The CMM Programmer serves as the primary technical resource for dimensional inspection and measurement strategy, supporting first‑article inspection (FAI), production inspection, and supplier quality validation. The CMM Programmer/Operator also supports root‑cause investigations, assists with process improvements, and ensures that measurement systems remain calibrated, repeatable, and reliable. This role works closely with Quality Engineering, Product Engineering, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain to ensure inspection methods are robust, repeatable, and capable. CMM Programming & Inspection Execution Develop and maintain CMM inspection programs for production, development, and supplier validation Program CMM routines based on engineering drawings, CAD models, and GD&T specifications Execute dimensional inspections using CMM equipment and supporting metrology tools Validate measurement strategies to ensure repeatability, accuracy, and efficiency Optimize inspection routines to improve throughput and reduce inspection cycle time First Article Inspection (FAI) & Production Inspection Lead dimensional verification activities for First Article Inspections (AS9102) Support production inspection of precision‑machined components and assemblies Verify critical features, tolerances, and datums per engineering requirements Document inspection results and ensure traceability of inspection records Measurement Strategy & GD&T Interpretation Interpret engineering drawings, models, and GD&T requirements Develop appropriate measurement strategies for complex geometries Define inspection datums, measurement paths, and alignment strategies Provide technical guidance on measurement feasibility and inspection methods Quality Investigation & Root Cause Support Support dimensional investigations related to non‑conformances, NCRs, and CAPAs Provide measurement data to support root cause analysis and corrective actions Collaborate with Manufacturing and Engineering to identify dimensional drivers of defects Assist with capability studies and measurement system validation Supplier & Incoming Inspection Support Support supplier quality validation through dimensional inspection of incoming parts Assist in verification of supplier first articles and dimensional compliance Provide dimensional feedback to Supply Chain and Quality Engineering regarding supplier performance Quality Systems & Documentation Ensure inspection programs and results are configuration‑controlled and traceable Maintain inspection documentation in accordance with AS9100 QMS requirements Ensure inspection data is accurate, complete, and audit‑ready Support internal and external audits related to dimensional inspection and measurement Continuous Improvement & Inspection Capability Identify opportunities to improve inspection efficiency, accuracy, and capability Develop standardized measurement approaches and inspection templates Support measurement system analysis and capability improvements Assist with development of inspection standards and best practices Supervisory Responsibility No direct supervisory responsibility Provides technical guidance to inspectors and technicians as needed Experience and Skills Required Strong understanding of PC‑DMIS CMM programming and dimensional inspection Ability to interpret engineering drawings and GD&T Experience with precision machining tolerances and inspection requirements Strong attention to detail and measurement accuracy Ability to analyze dimensional data and communicate findings clearly Ability to manage confidential and export‑controlled information (ITAR) Preferred Experience inspecting aerospace or propulsion components Experience with AS9102 First Article Inspection requirements Experience with measurement system analysis (MSA) and capability studies Education and Experience Required Associate degree in Manufacturing, Quality, Metrology, or related technical field (or equivalent experience) 5+ years experience in CMM programming and dimensional inspection Preferred Aerospace or defense manufacturing experience Advanced GD&T training or certification Work Environment / Physical Requirements Manufacturing and inspection lab environments Frequent interaction with machined components and assemblies May require standing for extended periods during inspection activities May be required to lift materials or components up to 50 lbs Travel Requirements 0–5% as required to support supplier visits, audits, or cross‑facility inspection activities THE ABOVE STATEMENTS ARE INTENDED TO DESCRIBE THE GENERAL NATURE AND LEVEL OF WORK BEING PERFORMED BY INDIVIDUALS ASSIGNED TO THIS CLASSIFICATION. THEY ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE CONSTRUED AS AN EXHAUSTIVE LIST OF ALL RESPONSIBILITIES, DUTIES AND SKILLS REQUIRED OF PERSONNEL SO CLASSIFIED. ALL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ARE ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS AND ARE SUBJECT TO POSSIBLE MODIFICATION TO REASONABLY ACCOMMODATE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES TO PERFORM THIS JOB PROFICIENTLY. THE REQUIREMENTS LISTED IN THIS DOCUMENT ARE THE MINIMUM LEVELS OF KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS OR ABILITIES.

EEO/M/F/D/V

Job Benefits Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance 401(k) Savings Plan Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) Paid Time‑Off (PTO) Holidays Education Reimbursement Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity affirmative action employer. EOE, Minorities, Females, Veterans, Disabled, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity or any other protected class. All qualified job seekers are encouraged to apply. Kratos Defense is committed to America's veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing after service to our nation. We also work to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. EEO Is The Law Disability Accessibility Accommodation: If you require an accommodation to navigate or apply to our careers site, please send your request to View email address on click.appcast.io or call View phone number on click.appcast.io. Any inquiries not related to requesting an accommodation will be discarded. Pay Transparency: The company will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. Job Applicant Privacy Notice: For applicants in the EU and California residents, please review our privacy notice. #J-18808-Ljbffr Kratos Defense and Security Solutions