Manufacturing 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.

As a Manufacturing Engineer I, you will help move designs from development into production by creating manufacturing processes, work instructions, and tooling that enable high-quality hardware fabrication. You will support engineering, technicians, and production teams, ensuring the build process is efficient, repeatable, and aligned with program needs.

Responsibilities

• Supports engineering, production, and program activities throughout the design-to-production lifecycle.
• Develops bills of materials, work instructions, and build documentation for assemblies.
• Works directly with technicians and hardware on fabrication and assembly tasks.
• Designs and implements basic fixtures, tools, and inspection gauges to support manufacturing.
• Supports material and resource planning, including Epicor data entry for bills of materials and methods of manufacture.
• Coordinates material flow to ensure smooth production operations.
• Communicates across the organization to gather information and support implementation of manufacturing solutions.
• Assists with prototype builds and evaluates materials and manufacturing processes.
• Coordinates with vendors and suppliers, including supplier quality teams.
• Monitors fabrication and production processes to support quality and process control.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in manufacturing engineering, mechanical engineering, or equivalent years of experience.
• Typically 0–3 years of relevant industry experience.
• Strong mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to read blueprints, drawings, and technical diagrams and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Hands-on engineering experience in a fabrication and assembly shop environment.
• Experience with EPICOR ERP software.
• This role will occasionally require extended hours during periods of high‑priority work. While overtime may be necessary, paid overtime cannot always be guaranteed, so flexibility in work hours is essential.

Preferred Qualifications

• Specific experience in the Space industry.
• Collegiate competition experience.

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.