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 supports our Defense Systems business, bringing together Hypersonics, Strategic Missile Defense, Tactical Missiles, and Integrated Defense Systems. Modern defense missions demand more than piecemeal parts or patchwork products; they require hardware that seamlessly integrates disparate technologies into a unified system. Backed by decades of flight-proven performance, our teams deliver tailored mission-ready solutions across air, land, and sea, including: launch and deployment systems, propulsion, payload protection, integration and deployment.

In this role, you will lead quality assurance operations for a manufacturing environment, guiding inspection personnel, overseeing product testing, and ensuring strong quality systems. You will coordinate crossfunctional efforts to resolve quality issues, maintain compliance, and drive improvements that strengthen product integrity and operational performance.

ScheduleThe work schedule is MondayFriday, 4 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., 2nd shift.

ResponsibilitiesLeads, mentors, and develops Quality Inspectors to ensure consistent execution of quality requirements.

Interviews, selects, onboards, and trains inspection personnel in alignment with business and quality standards.

Oversees finished product and raw material testing procedures at manufacturing and transload locations.

Develops, implements, and reviews quality programs and procedures.

Collaborates with Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, and support teams to resolve daily product, specification, and rework questions.

Ensures inspection and testing areas maintain safe working practices aligned with established safety procedures.

Records product and process audits and supports Quality System Basic (QSB) implementation.

Coordinates product failure analysis, corrective actions, and customer reporting.

Ensures inspection plans adequately support testing and operational needs.

Establishes and communicates daily, weekly, and monthly priorities for the inspection team.

Organizes workflow, assigns responsibilities, and schedules resources to support inspection and testing.

Monitors employee performance, provides feedback, and maintains accurate training records.

Prepares and submits quality performance, inspection activity, and departmental progress reports.

Identifies efficiency issues and recommends improvements.

Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Required QualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent.3 or more years of progressive experience in quality administration, aerospace, or defense.

Ability to read, speak, and write in English.

Organizational and leadership skills.

Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.

Selfmotivated with a resultsdriven approach.

Preferred QualificationsBachelors degree in engineering or a related field, or equivalent relevant work experience.

Aerospace background.

Experience with composite and metallic structures.

Physical RequirementsConstant standing, walking, and sitting for at least 8 hours.

Occasional pushing, pulling, lifting, or carrying up to 50 lbs, minimum 35 lbs.

Sufficient hand, arm, and finger dexterity to operate a computer keyboard and office equipment.

Clarity of vision at approximately 20 inches or less; corrective lenses may be worn.

Prolonged repetitive movements.

Constant holding, grasping, turning, or otherwise working with the hands.

Occasional reaching overhead, at shoulder level, and below shoulder level. The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

Special MentionsOccasional travel may be required for this position.

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.