Your space-enabled career begins here

SUMMARY

Karman Space & Defense is seeking a skilled and forward‑thinking Manufacturing Engineer to join our team in Ogden, UT. In this role, you will design and optimize machining processes, program CNC lathes and mills (vertical, horizontal, and multi‑axis), and introduce new technologies that enhance our ability to produce high‑precision aerospace and defense components.

You’ll work hands‑on with advanced materials, cutting‑edge CNC tools, and mission‑critical hardware that supports spacecraft, launch vehicles, missiles, hypersonics, and integrated defense systems.
This is a high‑impact position for engineers who thrive in fast‑paced environments, enjoy solving complex machining challenges, and want ownership of processes from concept through production.

ABOUT US

Karman is the market leading suppliers of metallic and composite flight hardware and sub-assemblies for the space, missile, and hypersonic markets. Karman offers an unprecedented capability set to customers, creating a supply chain solution in a historically fragmented supply base. The Karman team draws on in-house expertise in engineering & design, precision machining, large part forming, welding, heat age, finishing, assembly, ablative & insulative composites, and other capabilities to serve as a strategic partner to customers. Karman is headquartered in greater Los Angeles and currently has 5 locations in Southern California and 1 location in Mukilteo, Washington.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:

• Medical, Dental, Vision
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and implement manufacturing process designs that drive low‑cost, high‑quality production in a fast‑paced aerospace and defense environment.
• Program, optimize, and refine CNC milling and turning operations using FeatureCAM/Mastercam to support both new product introduction and repeat production.
• Partner with machinists and production teams to define efficient machining strategies, tooling solutions, and setup methods for complex geometries and multi‑axis machining.
• Interpret and analyze engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications to ensure manufacturability and accuracy.
• Validate programs using CNC simulation software to detect collisions, improve toolpaths, and enhance cycle times and process reliability.
• Build complete process documentation, including routers, work instructions, and setup sheets, within ERP/MRP systems.
• Lead or support continuous improvement projects that reduce cycle time, eliminate waste, and boost process capability and throughput.
• Monitor machine performance, troubleshoot issues, and drive root‑cause corrective actions.
• Provide hands‑on support to operators to ensure safe, consistent, and high‑quality execution of CNC programs.
• Uphold all safety, quality, and regulatory requirements across all manufacturing operations.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (preferred).
• Proven experience developing machining processes that achieve lowest cost and highest quality.
• Proficiency with FeatureCAM or equivalent CAD/CAM software; Mastercam experience is a plus.
• Experience with Vericut or other CNC simulation tools (preferred).
• Strong understanding of milling, turning, and multi‑axis machining.
• Experience with composites or spin forming (a plus).
• Fixture design and Workholding expertise.
• Experience developing routers, process plans, and work instructions.
• Solid understanding of GD&T, blueprint reading, and aerospace/defense materials.
• Lean/Six Sigma training or certification (a plus).
• Strong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, certain positions may require applicants to be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

No travel required for this position.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities. The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information.

Karman is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis (“protected class”) including, but not limited to race; color; religion; genetic information; national origin; sex; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; age; disability; citizenship status; uniform servicemember status; or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law. Our management is dedicated to ensuring the fulfillment of this policy with respect to hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, recruitment advertising, pay, and other forms of compensation, training, and general treatment during employment.