ABOUT KRAKEN KINETICS
Kraken Kinetics designs and manufactures advanced kinetic solutions that enable modern warfighting capabilities for the United States Armed Forces and its allies. We specialize in mission-tailored warheads and firing systems for unmanned and autonomous weapon platforms, delivering production-ready solutions at speed to address urgent national security challenges.
Our team brings decades of specialized Department of War experience across the full lifecycle of kinetic system development—from concept and design through testing, manufacturing, and operational deployment. Built on a foundation of work that helped lead the DoW into the era of kinetic drones, Kraken Kinetics combines commercial agility with deep technical expertise to deliver DEFINITIVE LETHALITY when it matters most.
POSITION SUMMARY
Location: On-site at our Pinehurst-area location
We are seeking a Warhead Production Specialist (Experience Level 1) to join our production team. This is an entry-level, hands-on role with a clear and accelerated progression path. High-performing Apprentice Fabricators who demonstrate technical aptitude, safety discipline, and ownership of their work may progress from Experience Level 1 to Experience Level 3 (Journeyman Warhead Fabricator) in as little as six months, based on demonstrated capability and production readiness.
As an Apprentice Warhead Fabricator, you will work as part of a production team and develop foundational knowledge and skills through direct, hands-on experience across multiple fabrication processes. This role is well suited for candidates with prior shop exposure, vocational or applied technology backgrounds, agricultural or mechanical experience, or comfort working with tools and equipment, who are motivated to advance quickly in a mission-driven defense technology manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
As an Apprentice Warhead Fabricator (Level 1), you will support day-to-day production operations while building the technical foundation required to advance into higher-responsibility fabrication roles.
Assist in the assembly of warhead enclosures and the integration of various components, including fragmentation packs, arrays, and sleeves.
Participate in injection molding processes, utilizing epoxy, urethane, and other binding materials to secure components, including pressure casting and high-temperature oven cures.
Support metallurgical work, including operations involving high-temperature furnaces and hydraulic presses, as well as metalworking and woodworking as required for certain builds.
Gain experience in working with explosives and support explosive test range operations under the supervision of senior staff.
Follow detailed instructions and specifications to ensure product integrity, performance, and safety.
Participate in on-the-job training to learn the precision techniques and skills required in the fabrication of high-performance warheads.
Perform basic inspections and quality checks to ensure all components meet the required standards and learn to perform more detailed tests as your experience grows.
Familiarize yourself with the entire fabrication process, from raw material preparation to final assembly, gaining an understanding of both safety protocols and production workflows.
Adhere to all safety protocols related to the operation of machinery, handling of materials, and execution of assembly processes.
QUALIFICATIONS
High School diploma or equivalent.
Willingness to work hands-on in a production, shop, or manufacturing environment and learn new fabrication processes.
Demonstrated ability to follow detailed instructions, procedures, and safety requirements.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and repeatability.
Ability to work as part of a team in a fast-paced production environment.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 40 pounds.
Ability to ascend and descend stairs as needed to access production, storage, and testing areas.
Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, reach, and work in confined or awkward positions as required.
Ability to use hands and fingers to handle tools, equipment, and materials with precision.
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and other required safety gear.
Ability to work safely in a manufacturing and production environment.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Prior hands-on shop, fabrication, or manufacturing experience, including vocational training, apprenticeships, or on-the-job experience.
Background in agricultural technology, applied technology, mechanics, construction, automotive, machining, welding, or related trades.
Familiarity with common shop and manufacturing tools such as drills, saws, grinders, presses, molds, fixtures, and basic measurement tools.
CAREER PROGRESSION - Everyone starts their career at L1
Apprentice Warhead Fabricator (Level 1): Entry-level role focused on foundational fabrication skills, safety, and hands-on training under close supervision. ($20-$26)
Warhead Fabricator (Level 2): Developing fabricator capable of performing core tasks with moderate supervision and increasing responsibility. ($24-$32)
Journeyman Warhead Fabricator (Level 3): Fully qualified fabricator able to independently perform a broad range of fabrication tasks and support production execution. ($30-$38)
Senior Warhead Fabricator (Level 4+): Advanced fabricators who contribute to complex builds, process improvement, quality oversight, and mentorship. ($36-$42)
SALARY & BENEFITS
Kraken Kinetics is committed to offering a competitive compensation package to attract and retain top talent. This full-time, on-site position offers an hourly wage range of $20 - $26 an hour, depending on qualifications and experience.
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a drug test.
#LI-EK1
Benefits included:
Generous PTO policy
Comprehensive medical coverage (80% company-paid for employee + dependents).
Vision & dental (100% company-paid)
Short and long-term disability coverage (100% company-paid)
Generous 401(k) retirement plan
Company-paid life insurance
Great teammates and well stocked snacks
LIFE IN MOORE COUNTY, NC (PINEHURST AREA)
Kraken Kinetics is based in Moore County, North Carolina, home to Pinehurst, a nationally recognized destination offering an exceptional quality of life.
Employees benefit from a low cost of living, minimal congestion, and a strong sense of community, with easy access to larger metropolitan areas, including Raleigh-Durham.
Whether you're looking to accelerate your career or put down long-term roots, the Pinehurst area offers a compelling alternative to traditional tech and defense hubs.
We are committed to supporting relocation for the right candidates.
Watch what it’s like to live here:
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EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Kraken Kinetics is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and welcome applicants of all backgrounds.
