Principal Engineering Design

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.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 will lead the operational and people-management foundation of a functional engineering group. You will oversee resource planning, consolidate labor demand across programs, coordinate staff assignments, and support programs in defining clear, actionable engineering work. You will also partner closely with technical experts to ensure engineering standards, qualifications, and training are effectively delivered, helping the team build capability while keeping program execution on track.
This role follows a 9/80 schedule, with 9-hour shifts Monday through Thursday, an 8-hour shift every other Friday, and the alternating Friday off.

Drives proactive hiring by identifying staffing gaps using consolidated demand data.
Partners with technical experts to schedule, track, and maintain engineering standards and training for the functional group.
Supports programs by breaking down engineering requests into scoped, staffable work packages.
Provides direct people management, including goal-setting, coaching, performance reviews, onboarding support, and routine administrative oversight.
Bachelor of Science (B.in Engineering.

• 5 or more years of engineering leadership experience, including at least 2 years in aerospace or engineering.
• Demonstrated experience in resource planning, scheduling, and managing technical staff.
• Ability to manage data-driven scheduling across multiple concurrent programs.
• Experience helping programs translate ambiguous engineering requests into scoped work packages.

Discipline-specific technical depth that supports partnership with technical experts.

S. citizens and nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.
Medical, dental, and vision insurance

• 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

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.