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 nations 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 shape and lead the quality systems that ensure our most critical components meet customer requirements and AS9100 standards. You will drive continuous improvement, oversee audits and core Quality Management System (QMS) activities, guide customer-facing quality communications, and support production readiness across engineering, operations, and supply chain. Your leadership strengthens reliability, elevates team performance, and reinforces our commitment to industryleading quality.

ResponsibilitiesOwns, maintains, and continuously improves the AS9100certified Quality Management System (QMS).Leads internal audits, management reviews, root cause and corrective actions (RCCA), and document control activities.

Serves as the primary interface for customer, thirdparty, and government audits, including preparation and corrective action followup.

Partners with Engineering and Operations on process reviews, risk management, configuration and change control, and production readiness.

Oversees AS9102 First Article Inspection, nonconformance management, Material Review Board (MRB) activities, and RCCA.Supports manufacturing with process controls, inspection strategies, quality planning, and problem solving.

Manages supplier quality activities including requirement flowdowns, qualification, performance monitoring, and corrective actions.

Leads and develops quality personnel with clear performance expectations and accountability.

Monitors and communicates quality metrics and trends to identify opportunities for corrective and preventive improvements.

Promotes a culture of quality ownership, prevention, and continuous improvement.

Required QualificationsBachelors degree in engineering, quality, manufacturing, or a related field; equivalent combinations of education and experience considered.

More than 4 years of progressive experience in quality within aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments.

Experience maintaining, auditing, and improving an AS9100certified QMS.Experience leading or participating in internal, customer, or thirdparty audits.

Ability and willingness to work handson in a smallcompany environment.

Excellent communication skills with a customerfocused approach.

Strong problemsolving and decisionmaking abilities.

Preferred QualificationsProven experience as a Quality Manager in the aerospace industry.

Experience in precision machining or contract manufacturing environments.

Experience managing or mentoring quality personnel.

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.

BenefitsMedical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) with company matchPaid time offHealth Savings Account (HSA) with company contributionFlexible Spending Accounts (FSA)Companypaid life and AD&D insuranceShort and longterm disability coverageTuition reimbursementKarman 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.