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Design and Manufacturing Engineer (Spin Forming)

South El Monte, California

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 lead manufacturing engineering efforts for metal spin forming projects, serving as the technical owner for tooling design, process development, and end-to-end manufacturing execution. You will collaborate across engineering, operations, and supply chain teams to develop manufacturable solutions, build engineering capabilities, and strengthen standards that enhance product quality and production efficiency.

Responsibilities

  • Lead tooling design and process development for metal spin forming and related fabrication processes informed by thermal analysis.
  • Manage projects from initiation through completion, conducting reviews and communicating progress, changes, and risks.
  • Build engineering capability by developing technical skills, implementing training programs, and supporting division initiatives.
  • Establish and document engineering techniques, standards, and best practices that enhance product value.
  • Implement standard engineering processes and tools aligned with industry best practices and monitor adherence.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives for productivity and first-pass yield using methodologies such as Design for Six Sigma.
  • Identify and monitor engineering performance metrics and implement improvements based on analytical findings.
  • Serve as the manufacturing liaison from product inception through shipment, partnering with Design Engineering, Operations, and Supply Chain to ensure design for manufacturability.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline from an accredited institution.
  • Five or more years of engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Three or more years of experience supporting product development or sustainment programs.
  • Proficiency in blueprint reading and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD\&T).

Preferred Qualifications

  • Five or more years of experience in tubing and sheet metal processes, including metal spin forming, drawing, and progressive manufacturing supporting tools and die design.
  • Three or more years of experience with lean manufacturing techniques and Six Sigma training or mentoring.
  • Three or more years of experience supporting aerospace manufacturing.
  • Experience in thermal analysis or thermal management.
  • Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
  • Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish.

Special Mentions

No travel requirements were provided in the source posting.

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

Salary Range

$125,000 - $165,000 USD

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, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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