Test Technician I

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 help ensure mission-critical hardware performs reliably by executing tests that simulate extreme environmental and operational conditions. Working closely with engineers and senior technicians, you support test setup, execution, data collection, and documentation across component, subsystem, and system-level testing. You also assist with environmental testing and lab maintenance while operating independently in a fast-paced test environment.

Responsibilities

• Assists engineers and senior technicians with test setup and execution.
• Reads and interprets technical drawings, specifications, and procedures.
• Maintains a strong understanding of safety practices around heavy industrial equipment.
• Supports test planning and execution, including test design, analysis, procedure writing, and data collection.
• Performs setup and teardown of fixturing, equipment, and instrumentation according to engineering procedures.
• Applies knowledge of military and commercial testing specifications.
• Performs lab maintenance and process improvements.
• Communicates effectively and collaborates well with team members.
• Works independently with limited supervision.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or General Educational Development (GED).
• One to two years of experience in aerospace, defense, or manufacturing environments.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a test environment through prior work experience.
• Ability and willingness to obtain a Washington State explosives license and work with energetic devices.
• Proficiency with computers and familiarity with common office applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or higher.
• Familiarity with crane operation and lifting equipment.

Physical Requirements

• Uses stairs regularly.
• Stands for extended periods.
• Occasionally lifts objects weighing more than 50 pounds. The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

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.

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.