Quality Inspector - 1st Shift

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense and its allies. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to over 80 prime contractors supporting more than 130 space and defense programs. This role is part of our Hypersonics and Strategic Missile Defense business, which designs, develops, and delivers highly dependable missile systems for hypersonic and strategic missile defense missions.

About the role

As a Quality Inspector, you will play a key role in ensuring the precision, accuracy, and overall integrity of internal and externally supplied products. You will review, inspect, and evaluate materials and documentation to confirm conformance with Karman’s quality systems, procedures, and industry standards including ISO 9001 and AS9100. This role helps maintain product reliability, supports efficient manufacturing flow, and upholds the high-quality standards essential to mission-critical aerospace and defense applications.

Responsibilities

• Conducts routine and non-routine analyses of in-process materials, raw materials, finished goods, and environmental or stability samples.
• Interprets test results, compares findings to established specifications and control limits, and recommends next steps.
• Performs visual inspections of finished and unfinished products.
• Completes documentation supporting testing procedures, including data capture forms, logbooks, and inventory records.
• Calibrates, validates, and maintains laboratory equipment.
• Participates in out-of-specification and failure investigations and recommends corrective actions.
• Receives and inspects raw materials and investigates questionable test results.
• Ensures cleanliness and adherence to safety standards in the inspection and laboratory areas.
• Identifies quality problems and recommends solutions.
• Performs other duties as requested by the Quality Control Manager.

Requirements

• Excellent oral and written comprehension.
• Strong problem-solving abilities.
• Knowledge of basic mathematics, including algebra and geometry.
• Broad understanding of engineering principles.
• Knowledge of using and calibrating measurement tools such as height gages and calipers.
• Well versed in ISO 9000 and AS9100.
• Ability to read, speak, and write in English.

Qualifications

• 1 to 2 years of experience (preferred).
• Aerospace background (preferred).
• Experience with composite and metallic structures (preferred).

Physical Requirements

• Constant standing, walking, or sitting for at least 8 hours.
• Occasional pushing, pulling, lifting, or carrying up to 50 lbs, minimum 35 lbs.
• Sufficient hand, arm, and finger dexterity to operate a computer keyboard and other office equipment.
• Clarity of vision at approximately 20 inches or less; corrective lenses may be worn to fulfill requirement.
• Prolonged periods of repetitive movement.
• Constant holding, grasping, turning, or working with the hands.
• Occasional reaching overhead, at shoulder level, and below shoulder level.

The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

Schedule

1st shift, either 6:00 am - 2:00 pm or 7:30 am - 3:30 pm, Monday through Friday.

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