Composites Quality Inspector

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.

This role is part of our Tactical Missiles and Integrated Defense Systems business, which designs and develops integrated missile and defense systems that support critical missions across air, land, and sea. We combine comprehensive analysis, engineering, and program execution capabilities to deliver mission-tailored solutions that reduce lead times, lower costs, and simplify complex multi-vendor supply chains.  Backed by decades of flight-proven and fielded performance, we design and build mission-critical technologies including launch systems, propulsion, payload integration solutions, UAV components, missile subsystems, and Safe & Arm systems.

As a Composites Quality Inspector, you will play an important role in ensuring composite manufacturing processes and products meet engineering specifications, customer requirements, and established aerospace quality standards. You will provide hands-on quality support throughout the composites manufacturing process, from material handling and layup through inspection and documentation. Working closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, and Quality teams, you will help identify and resolve quality issues while maintaining compliance with Karman's Quality Management System (QMS) and AS9100 requirements. If you have an eye for detail, enjoy working in a hands-on manufacturing environment, and take pride in delivering high-quality aerospace components, we encourage you to apply.

Responsibilities

• Inspects composite materials, components, and manufacturing processes to verify compliance with engineering drawings, specifications, customer requirements, and established quality standards.

• Provides quality oversight and inspection support for composite layup operations, including workmanship, material handling, kit cutting, layup activities, and manufacturing workflows.

• Verifies composite materials are properly received, stored, handled, and tracked in accordance with applicable quality and manufacturing requirements.

• Reviews and maintains composite manufacturing records, inspection reports, and quality documentation to ensure accuracy, completeness, and traceability.

• Identifies, documents, and communicates nonconformances while supporting investigations, corrective actions, and resolution of quality issues.

• Prepares and maintains First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) in accordance with AS9102 requirements.

• Coordinates with suppliers to identify and resolve material and product quality concerns.

• Performs and supports internal, customer, and regulatory quality audits of composites manufacturing operations to verify compliance with applicable requirements.

• Collaborates with Engineering teams to support manufacturing process definition, quality requirements, and new product development activities.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, and manufacturing documentation.

• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy in quality documentation.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to use computers to access, review, and enter manufacturing and quality information.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with aerospace composite layup processes and manufacturing operations.

• Previous quality inspection experience, preferably in an aerospace or composites manufacturing environment.

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

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