Quality Engineer I

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 support quality engineering activities throughout design, development, testing, qualification, and production. You will create manufacturing documentation, participate in inspections, support First Article builds, and assist with audits and corrective action processes. Your work helps ensure compliance with customer, contractual, and regulatory requirements while supporting continuous improvement across fabrication and assembly operations.

Responsibilities

Create work instructions, build instructions, and manufacturing documentation.

Support technicians during fabrication and inspection activities, including basic tool and fixture design.

Prepare Technical Data Packages (TDPs).

Generate and resolve Corrective Action Reports (CARs) and Nonconformance Reports (NCRs); lead failure investigations.

Ensure adherence to regulatory and customer-specific quality requirements.

Monitor production processes and assist with First Article builds in accordance with AS9100.

Support design reviews and ensure compliance with quality and contractual requirements.

Conduct internal and process audits; support customer and regulatory audits.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing engineering preferred but not required.

0–3 years of engineering or manufacturing experience.

Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to read technical drawings.

Hands‑on experience in fabrication or assembly environments preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience supporting quality engineering in manufacturing or aerospace environments.

Physical Requirements

No additional physical requirements beyond standard work conditions. The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

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.