Quality Engineer II

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 Hypersonics and Strategic Missile Defense business, which designs, develops, and delivers highly dependable missile systems for hypersonic and strategic missile defense missions. We provide integrated, mission-ready hardware that brings together multiple technologies into unified systems engineered to perform in demanding operational environments. Our tip‑to‑tail capabilities include payload protection and deployment systems, propulsion systems, aerodynamic interstage systems, separation systems, missile subsystems, shroud systems, launch systems, and payload integration solutions.

In this role, you will implement and maintain quality requirements to support compliant, reliable, and mission‑ready products. You will analyze specifications, validate quality processes, drive corrective actions, and work directly with customers to resolve issues and maintain strong relationships. Your work will ensure product conformity, strengthen manufacturing processes, and support continuous improvement across production programs.

Responsibilities

• Reviews customer‑imposed quality documents to determine applicability and ensure compliance, directing corrections when necessary.
• Evaluates quality documentation for alignment with customer specifications and contractual requirements, and verifies corrective action completion.
• Interfaces with customers to support positive relationships and manage Material Review Board (MRB) activity.
• Develops lesson plans and participates in training inspection personnel.
• Reviews manufacturing planning to ensure adequate inspection points within production processes.
• Conducts inspection verification to confirm products meet purchase order, drawing, and specification requirements.
• Monitors quality metrics, including scrap and rework costs, identifies trends, and initiates improvement projects.
• Reviews and validates labor and equipment‑related costs to ensure necessity and minimize waste.
• Maintains an organized, clean, and safe work area while adhering to all quality practices and safety procedures.
• Performs additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree, preferably in engineering or another technical field.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical procedures, journals, and regulations.
• Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals, and present information effectively.
• Ability to solve practical problems and interpret instructions in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
• Ability to apply basic algebra and geometry and perform related calculations such as proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume.
• A current U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in the space and defense industry.

Physical Requirements

• Constant standing, walking, and sitting for at least 8 hours.
• Ability to lift up to 10 pounds and occasionally up to 25 pounds. The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

Special Mentions

• Travel: Travel may be required for this position.

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.