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Site Manager

Seattle, Washington

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 the Mukilteo engineering and manufacturing site, overseeing programs, operations, and overall organizational performance. You will strengthen cross-functional collaboration, drive operational excellence, and support growth initiatives while ensuring reliable, efficient, and profitable execution across the site's portfolio.

Responsibilities

  • Leads site operations to deliver on-time, zero-defect products with strong margins and sustained production flow.
  • Implements standardized processes, lean manufacturing practices, and key performance indicators (KPIs) to improve efficiency, reduce variation, and enhance operational excellence.
  • Optimizes facility utilization, product flow, and enterprise resource planning (ERP) performance to improve planning, visibility, and throughput.
  • Establishes and manages operational metrics for machine utilization, labor productivity, profitability, and overall site health.
  • Drives organizational change through clear communication, collaboration, and adoption of best practices.
  • Builds and maintains strong relationships with customers and suppliers through proactive communication and effective issue resolution.
  • Partners with Human Resources to hire, develop, and retain skilled personnel, supporting a long-term talent pipeline.
  • Leads growth initiatives by developing sales and business development pipelines and supporting customer and program expansion.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • 15 or more years of experience in midsize to large aerospace and defense engineering or manufacturing organizations.
  • Demonstrated ability to drive and sustain operational growth.
  • Expertise with AS9100 compliance.
  • Experience with lean manufacturing methodologies such as Lean Six Sigma or Kaizen.
  • Experience with ERP systems, including integration and implementation.
  • Profit and loss (P\&L) management experience.
  • Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and managing complex operations in high-precision, regulated environments.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master’s degree.

Special Mentions

  • Must be based in, or willing to relocate to, the greater Seattle area.

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

$190,000 - $230,000 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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