Composites Quality Inspector- 1st Shift

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.

The Composites Quality Inspector ensures that composite manufacturing activities meet strict aerospace quality requirements by conducting inspections, verifying documentation, managing composite-related quality workflows, and supporting process development. This role works closely with technicians, engineering staff, and suppliers to uphold compliance with quality standards and maintain accurate records across all composite production and inspection efforts.

Schedule

• This role follows a 4x10 schedule, with 10-hour shifts Monday through Thursday from 5:00am-3:30pm.

Responsibilities

• Ensures composite manufacturing meets all applicable quality requirements, drawings, and specifications.
• Provides process oversight and quality support for composite layup technicians, including inspection of workmanship, material handling, kit cutting and layup, documentation, inspection reports, and workflow processes.
• Verifies proper receipt, storage, handling, and tracking of composite materials.
• Tracks composite manufacturing and inspection documentation, documents non‑conformances, and supports corrective actions and investigations.
• Generates AS9102 First Article Inspection Reports.
• Coordinates with suppliers to address and resolve quality‑related issues.
• Performs and supports quality and regulatory audits of the composites shop.
• Works with engineering staff to support process definition and new product development.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Hands‑on experience in aerospace composite layup desirable.
• Inspection experience desirable.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Comfortable using computers for data entry and information lookup.

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.