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 Maritime Defense Systems business, which delivers integrated solutions with decades of proven performance across submarine, surface, and autonomous naval platforms supporting high-priority national defense programs. Our bow-to-stern capabilities include acoustic and sonar protection systems, propulsion systems, advanced composite structures, missile subsystems, canisters and launchers, and autonomous underwater vehicle subsystems. From concept through production, we combine engineering, materials expertise, specialized manufacturing, and large-scale testing to deliver mission-ready systems that reduce technical risk and support long-term operational performance.

In this role, you will support program quality direction and contribute across Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) to ensure products meet customer, engineering, and contractual requirements. You will develop quality plans, inspection documentation, and objective evidence packages, collaborate with engineers and production teams, and lead audits, investigations, and quality improvements that strengthen compliance and support successful program execution.

Responsibilities

• Supports multiple programs by developing quality plans, traceability matrices, inspection plans, and Objective Quality Evidence (OQE) packages.
• Reviews engineering drawings, customer specifications, and material requirements to establish quality and inspection criteria.
• Partners with engineering to develop and approve Manufacturing Work Instructions (MIPs).
• Provides quality input for proposals, schedules, budgets, and other program deliverables.
• Applies working knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing in quality planning and inspections.
• Participates in full production processes including drawing reviews, tool verification, procurement, machining, inspections, and OQE development.
• Interfaces with customers, vendors, and subcontractors to support program quality activities.
• Leads internal audits and supports third-party Quality Management System audits and source inspections.
• Leads root cause, corrective action, and preventive action investigations.
• Evaluates quality control processes and recommends improvements to support compliance and continuous enhancement.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of science degree in composites, mechanical, civil, structural, chemical, aerospace, or another related engineering discipline, including naval architecture; or a combination of extensive work experience (3–6 years) plus other unrelated education.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
• Working knowledge of quality engineering practices and Quality Management Systems.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, customer specifications, and material requirements.
• Experience developing work instructions, procedures, or similar technical documentation.
• Ability to perform inspections using calibrated equipment, special tooling, and other inspection methods.
• Ability to ascend and descend ladders, work in confined spaces, and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to bend, stoop, climb, and perform hands-on inspection tasks.
• A current U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with SolidWorks 3D models and 2D drawings.
• Experience with AS9100 or ISO 9001 quality management systems.
• Experience performing first article inspections.
• Hands-on fabrication experience.
• Experience with composite materials and fabrication processes.

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.