Flight Hardware Inspector

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.

As a Flight Hardware Inspector, you will perform detailed inspections, validate product documentation, and support configuration management for flight hardware. You will collaborate with quality, manufacturing, and customer teams to ensure product conformity, support reviews, interpret engineering data, and uphold Quality Management System (QMS) and Aerospace Standard 9100 (AS9100) requirements.

Schedule:

• This position follows a 1st shift schedule: Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Responsibilities

• Maintains AS9100 procedures and supports continuous improvement.
• Inspects and validates flight hardware and associated documentation.
• Assists in preparing customer conformity reviews and related materials.
• Reads and interprets engineering drawings and models to support inspection activities.
• Supports bubbled drawing data pack preparation.
• Interacts with customer source inspectors and provides inspection support.
• Reviews customer and Karman quality requirements for each job.
• Supports manufacturing with inspection and engineering needs.
• Assists production schedule demands, including overtime when requested.
• Ensures assigned work does not result in unintended delivery of non‑conforming product.
• Collaborates effectively within the quality department and with production teams.
• Uses AS9100 QMS procedures and tools according to intent and standards.
• Understands product impact in the event of failure and supports product safety.

Required Qualifications

• Experience in inspection using supported quality techniques.
• Two or more years of college education or related technical training.
• Detail‑oriented and highly organized.
• Strong communication skills and ability to interact effectively with customers and staff.
• Assertive and direct with strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to provide formal training on changes and customer requirements.
• Knowledge of QMS reporting, record‑keeping, and procedural compliance.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds.

Special Mentions

• No travel is required for this position.
• This position operates in a warehouse, shop, or manufacturing environment.

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.