Machine Shop Supervisor

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.

As the Machine Shop Supervisor, you lead day-to-day machining operations to ensure high-quality production, efficient workflow, and consistent on-time delivery. You coordinate personnel, equipment, and resources to maintain first-time quality, support ongoing improvement efforts, and uphold procedures that reinforce product conformity, product safety, and customer satisfaction. Your leadership enables the team to operate safely, maintain compliance with quality systems, and achieve production goals within a fast-paced shop environment.

Responsibilities

• Leads daily operations of machine shop personnel and equipment to support first-time quality and on-time delivery.
• Coordinates machine schedules, work centers, and utilization goals to meet production requirements.
• Oversees quality-related activities, including minimizing nonconformances and scrap rates.
• Maintains a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Manages tool inventory, replenishment, and tool performance reporting.
• Provides training on methods, procedures, customer requirements, and quality system responsibilities.
• Directs personnel performance, conduct, and evaluation.
• Utilizes maintenance software to manage service and repair reporting for equipment.
• Reports improvement opportunities and recommendations to management related to quality and delivery.
• Supports program optimization, corrections, and machine troubleshooting and communicates updates to management and programming teams.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience.
• Adequate machine shop experience as determined by Karman Space and Defense.
• Thorough understanding of machining equipment, setups, and practices.
• Detail oriented, highly organized, and able to communicate effectively with internal customers, management, and staff.
• Strong blueprint interpretation skills.
• Ability to use inspection tools and generate production status reports.
• Knowledge of basic Quality Management System (QMS) reporting and record keeping.
• Machining background with knowledge of 3-axis to 5-axis machining and full rotary axis.
• Troubleshooting knowledge of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) work centers.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of multiple machine controls.
• Understanding of proper cutting tools for different materials and toolpaths.

Physical Requirements

• Constant standing, walking, or sitting for at least 8 hours.
• Occasional pushing, pulling, lifting, or carrying up to 50 lbs; minimum of 35 lbs.
• Dexterity to operate a computer keyboard and office equipment.
• Vision clarity at approximately 20 inches or less; corrective lenses may be worn.
• Prolonged repetitive movement.
• Frequent holding, grasping, and turning motions.
• Occasional reaching overhead, at shoulder level, and below shoulder level.
The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

Special Mentions

• No travel is required for this position.

Benefits Include

• 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

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.

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, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.