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.
As the Senior Engineering Manager, you will lead engineering strategy and hands-on technical execution across large-platform machining, spin forming, and bump forming operations at Karman's California sites. You will manage multi-disciplinary engineering teams, advance manufacturing processes, drive productivity improvements, and align engineering capabilities with business and customer needs. Your leadership strengthens technical innovation, ensures execution excellence, and supports company-wide growth objectives.
Responsibilities- Leads process advancement in large-part machining, spin forming, and bump forming technologies.
- Develops and implements robust process controls and new manufacturing methods aligned with business and customer requirements.
- Leads Computer Numerical Control (CNC) programming efforts to maximize machine efficiency and process adherence.
- Advances engineering data systems to support technical insight, process integration, and productivity improvements.
- Oversees design engineering, CNC programming, manufacturing engineering, and project engineering, ensuring process optimization, workload balance, and skill alignment.
- Develops personnel through mentoring, performance management, and clear role expectations.
- Coordinates staffing and execution of project plans, including cost, schedule, and technical goals.
- Supports business development by aligning engineering capabilities with new customer opportunities.
- Develops proposals and strategic plans related to technology upgrades and capability expansion.
- Drives cross-site collaboration and standardization in tooling, processes, and documentation, ensuring alignment with stakeholders.
Required Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing engineering, or a related field.
- 10+ years of experience in aerospace or defense manufacturing and 5+ years in an engineering leadership role.
- Demonstrated success managing complex technical programs and cross-functional engineering teams.
- Expertise in machining, spin forming, or related forming technologies.
- Experience with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) tools such as CATIA and Mastercam.
- Strong communication and leadership skills.
Preferred Qualifications- Master's degree in engineering or management.
Physical Requirements- Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Ability to lift up to 15 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.
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