Director of Continuous Improvement

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.

In this role, you will guide enterprise-wide continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen operational performance, enhance quality, and increase efficiency across multiple manufacturing sites. You will lead efforts that reduce waste, improve process capability, and support teams in optimizing complex aerospace and defense production workflows, helping ensure mission-critical hardware is delivered with consistent excellence.

Responsibilities

• Develops and deploys a multi-site continuous improvement roadmap aligned with corporate objectives.
• Leads lean, Six Sigma, and value stream mapping initiatives to drive operational excellence.
• Identifies and eliminates non‑value‑added activities across machining, fabrication, and downstream processing.
• Develops, tracks, and reports enterprise metrics for cost savings, yield improvements, and cycle‑time reduction.
• Partners with Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain to improve process capabilities.
• Facilitates advanced root‑cause problem‑solving activities to address systemic production bottlenecks.
• Plans and executes Kaizen events focused on setup reduction, 5S workplace organization, and cellular manufacturing.
• Mentors and develops employees in lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Ensures continuous improvement initiatives support and maintain AS9100 and product safety standards.
  
  

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related technical field.
• Minimum 8–10 years of operations or continuous improvement leadership in aerospace and defense manufacturing.
• Certified Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt or Black Belt.
• Experience with AS9100 quality management systems and Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) oversight.
• Background in precision machining, structural fabrication, or aerospace assemblies.
• Proficiency with enterprise resource planning (ERP) and manufacturing execution system (MES) data analysis.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Master of Business Administration (MBA) or master's degree.
  
  

Special Mentions

• Travel required across regional manufacturing sites.
  
  

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.