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.
The Senior Manufacturing Engineer plays a central role in ensuring producibility, process robustness, and continuous improvement throughout the product lifecycle. This role leads design-for-manufacturability efforts, develops and validates manufacturing processes, and supports production teams by solving technical challenges, optimizing workflows, and establishing standards that strengthen product quality and operational efficiency.
Responsibilities
- Leads design for manufacturability and assembly (DFMA) activities as part of the product design team.
- Applies broad knowledge of manufacturing principles and practices to support product development.
- Mentors junior manufacturing engineers and supports their technical development.
- Serves as a subject matter expert on DFMA and statistical process controls to monitor and improve process robustness.
- Oversees material and resource planning activities to support efficient production scheduling.
- Plans manufacturing workflows, resource allocation, and production line capacity based on forecasted demand.
- Solves complex technical problems to support product design, development, and production needs.
- Oversees process qualification activities and contributes to product qualification efforts.
- Supports development and validation of internal processes, including enterprise resource planning (ERP) implementation.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science in manufacturing engineering, mechanical engineering, or an equivalent field.
- Minimum 6 years of relevant industry experience.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on engineering experience in fabrication and assembly environments.
- Ability to read and generate blueprints, drawings, and technical diagrams.
- Familiarity with basic material properties and in-process verification and validation.
- Proficiency in geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
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.