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.
As a Machinist III, you will program, set up, and operate 3-, 4-, and 5‑axis CNC milling and turning machines to produce precision components with close tolerances and critical finish requirements. You will develop machining processes, create CNC programs, collaborate with engineering teams, and perform complex machining assignments that support production efficiency and product quality for aerospace and defense applications.
Responsibilities
- Develops and implements machining process plans that support high‑quality, cost‑effective production.
- Programs CNC mills and lathes using computer‑aided design/computer‑aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) software such as FeatureCAM or Mastercam.
- Collaborates with engineering and production teams to design tooling strategies and machining approaches for complex aerospace and defense components.
- Reviews engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications to ensure accurate programming and machining.
- Uses simulation software to verify CNC programs, prevent collisions, and optimize tool paths.
- Develops routers, setup sheets, and work instructions using enterprise resource planning/manufacturing resource planning (ERP/MRP) systems.
- Implements continuous improvement actions to enhance production flow, reduce cycle time, and minimize waste.
- Monitors machine performance, adjusts processes, and ensures adherence to quality and production standards.
- Provides technical support, documentation, and guidance to machine operators.
- Supports process planning, fixture design, and development of machining documentation.
Required Qualifications
- 10 or more years of experience programming and setting up CNC mills and lathes.
- Experience with numerical control (NC) lathe programming.
- Proficiency in FeatureCAM or equivalent CAD/CAM software.
- Experience with Vericut or similar CNC simulation software.
- Strong knowledge of milling and turning processes, including multi‑axis machining.
- Fixture design experience.
- Experience developing process plans, setup documentation, and work instructions.
- Knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), blueprint reading, and aerospace/defense materials.
- Strong problem‑solving skills, organization, and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment.
- Ability to obtain a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance.
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
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.
