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.

About the role

In this role, you will perform dimensional inspections on high-precision machined components to ensure they meet stringent aerospace standards. You will operate Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) and other metrology tools, support First Article and production inspections, and document results to maintain full compliance with engineering requirements and AS9100D standards. Your work directly supports quality, engineering, and operations teams by ensuring accurate measurements, identifying nonconforming parts, and contributing to continuous improvement of inspection processes.

Schedule

Second shift option available: four days per week, ten hours per day.

Responsibilities

• Operates Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) using applicable metrology software such as Calypso or PC-DMIS.
• Performs First Article, in-process, incoming, and final inspections in accordance with AS9102 requirements.
• Utilizes a range of precision metrology tools to verify part compliance with engineering drawings and tight-tolerance requirements.
• Documents inspection results by completing reports, logs, and quality database entries.
• Collaborates with machinists to verify First Article and production compliance to technical drawings.
• Identifies nonconforming parts and initiates corrective action procedures.
• Reviews production documentation to confirm completeness and compliance prior to shipment.
• Maintains inspection equipment and a clean, organized work area.
• Supports continuous improvement of measurement processes.
• Complies with regulatory requirements, company policies, operating procedures, and Quality Management System (QMS) standards.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of dimensional inspection experience in aerospace, defense, or a similar industry.
• Proficiency evaluating and interpreting engineering drawings.
• Strong knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) per ASME Y14.5.
• Experience with Microsoft Office applications.
• Understanding of quality assurance sampling plans, including visual and dimensional examinations and related test methods.
• Ability to use metrology equipment such as bore gages, profilometers, height gages, micrometers, and optical comparators.

Qualifications

• Secondary education beyond high school.
• Experience operating CMM programs in Calypso and/or PC-DMIS.
• Knowledge of standard mechanical inspection methods, tools, and tolerances.
• Familiarity with aerospace and defense industry regulations.
• Working knowledge of AS9100D Quality Management Systems.
• Experience with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems such as Global Shop or Epicor.

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