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Machine Shop Lead

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.

This role is part of our Space and Launch business, which has contributed to the nation’s space programs for decades by delivering complete solutions from concept to flight. We enable successful space operations with mission-critical technology supporting every step from first launch to final landing, including launch vehicle subsystems, propulsion systems, aerodynamic and interstage systems, and payload protection and deployment. Our high-performance solutions are engineered to operate in the most extreme environments and meet precise mission requirements.

The Machine Shop Lead supports daily machine shop operations by coordinating production priorities, monitoring workflow, and providing hands-on guidance to machinists and support personnel. As a working lead, this role performs machining activities while helping the team maintain product quality, safe working practices, equipment readiness, and on-time delivery.

Responsibilities

  • Coordinates daily machine shop activities, work assignments, and production priorities to maintain efficient workflow and support production schedules.
  • Performs machining and production activities while providing technical guidance and problem-solving support to machinists and machine shop support personnel.
  • Monitors production status, machine downtime, and operational constraints, and communicates delays, repair needs, and other concerns to the Machine Shop Supervisor.
  • Verifies that current work order packages, runbooks, drawings, travelers, tools, and equipment are available before jobs are released.
  • Supports compliance with AS9100, customer requirements, the Quality Management System (QMS), and approved company procedures and work instructions.
  • Promotes first-time quality, product conformity, product safety, and the timely identification and escalation of nonconformances.
  • Trains and mentors new employees, supports cross-training, and promotes accountability, teamwork, ethical conduct, and effective communication.
  • Leads safe working practices, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), hazard identification, incident reporting, and workplace organization.
  • Maintains production records, equipment and tooling logs, inspection equipment availability, shift handoff communications, and operational updates.
  • Identifies and supports continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen safety, quality, efficiency, productivity, preventive maintenance, and equipment care.

Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) credential.
  • 3-5 years of machine shop experience.
  • Strong blueprint reading and manufacturing knowledge.
  • Experience operating manual and/or computer numerical control (CNC) machining equipment.
  • Experience mentoring, training, or leading employees in a manufacturing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Aerospace or defense manufacturing experience.
  • Experience working in an AS9100 manufacturing environment.
  • Forklift certification.
  • Experience with Epicor, ADP, or similar manufacturing systems.

Physical Requirements

  • Constant standing, walking, and movement throughout the shift.
  • Occasional pushing, pulling, lifting, or carrying up to 50 pounds.
  • Frequent use of hands to operate machinery, tooling, and inspection equipment.
  • Ability to work around moving machinery and industrial equipment.
  • Occasional forklift operation when certified.
  • Ability to work in a manufacturing and machine shop environment with exposure to machinery, noise, metal chips, oils, and industrial equipment.
  • Required use of personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toed footwear.
  • The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

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

Hourly Rate

$38 - $45 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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