Machine Shop Helper

Karman Space & Defense provides concept-to-production solutions for mission-critical systems on spacecraft, launch vehicles, missiles, hypersonics, and integrated defense systems. We believe that solving the industry’s most complex and mission-critical challenges requires relentless determination and a willingness to push the boundaries of possibility. Karman Space & Defense brings to bear unparalleled production capabilities, unmatched engineering expertise, and unflinching analysis to render the impossible, possible.

The Shop Hand is an entry-level role supporting our CNC Machine Shop operations. This position is responsible for general shop support, material handling, housekeeping, and assisting machinists with day-to-day tasks. The role is designed as a feeder into our Machinist I track, offering hands-on exposure to CNC machining, tooling, and manufacturing workflows.

Please note - this position is in-person in Arlington, WA.

RESPONSIBILITY & AUTHORITY

• Perform general shop support tasks including cleaning, organizing, and maintaining a safe/efficient work environment.
• Handle raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods (move, stage, and store as directed).
• Assist machinists with setups, tool changes, and part handling.
• Operate basic support equipment such as saws, deburr tools, and hand tools (training provided).
• Support the shop’s 5S program: sort, set in order, shine, standardize, sustain.
• Perform routine maintenance and replenishment (e.g., cutting fluid checks, shop supplies).
• Run errands and assist across departments to keep production flowing.
• Learn and follow all company safety and quality procedures.
• Cross-train with machinists to prepare for advancement into a Machinist I role.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma.
• Strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to learn.
• Ability to lift 25–50 lbs. and stand for extended periods.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and comfort using hand tools.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Knowledge and Skill Requirements

• Must be detail oriented, extremely organized, have excellent communication skills and be able to interact well with all levels of Management.
• Must have general blueprint interpretation skills.
• Must have some knowledge of machine set-ups, tools, tooling, cutters and assembly practices

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. Learn more about the ITAR here.

Compensation & Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision
• Company Paid Life Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Tuition Reimbursement

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.