B.S. in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Manufacturing Engineering; M.S. preferred
10+ years in aerospace or defense manufacturing, with 5+ in leadership
Proven track record managing complex technical programs and cross-functional teams
Expertise in machining, spin forming, or related forming technologies
Familiarity with ERP and CAD/CAM systems like CATIA and Mastercam
Strong communication and leadership abilities
U.S. citizenship and eligibility for DOD SECRET clearance
Responsibilities
Lead advancements in large-part machining, spin forming, and bump forming technologies.
Develop and implement process controls and manufacturing methods that meet business needs.
Maximize CNC programming efficiency and adherence to processes.
Enhance engineering data systems for technical insights and productivity.
Oversee design, CNC programming, and manufacturing engineering for workload optimization.
Mentor and manage personnel development and performance.
Align engineering capacities with business development opportunities.
Benefits
Medical, Dental, Vision insurance
Company Paid Life Insurance
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
Paid Time Off (PTO)
Paid Holidays
Tuition Reimbursement
Full Job Description
SUMMARY:
Without the strength of our Engineering Team, we would not be able to offer the industry-leading service we're known for. We're seeking an experienced Sr. Engineering Manager. The ideal candidate will have proven industry experience as a Sr. Engineering Manager. As a strong communicator and skilled hands-on Sr. Engineering Manager, you will manage Karman Space & Defense's California LA sites will lead the strategic development and implementation of advanced manufacturing processes across our large-platform machining, spin forming, and bump forming operations. This role combines hands-on engineering leadership with forward-thinking program oversight to enhance technical capability, improve execution efficiency, and support business growth. Reporting to the Director of Engineering, the Sr. Engineering Manager will foster a culture of innovation and collaboration across multi-disciplinary teams, ensuring delivery of high-quality results in line with schedule and financial performance targets
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Medical, Dental, Vision
Company Paid Life Insurance
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
Paid Time Off (PTO)
Paid Holidays
Tuition Reimbursement*
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Technical Leadership & Innovation
Lead process advancement in large-part machining, spin forming, and bump forming technologies.
Develop and implement robust process controls and new manufacturing methods aligned with customer and business needs.
Lead CNC programming efforts maximizing machine efficiency and process adherence.
Advance engineering data business systems to support technical insight, process integration, and productivity improvements.
Team Management
Oversee design, CNC programming, Mfg. Engineering, & Project Engineering and ensuring process optimization, workload balance and skill alignment
Provide leadership in personnel development, mentoring, and performance management.
Coordinate staffing and execution of project plans including cost, schedule, and technical goals.
Strategic Execution & Collaboration
Support business development by aligning engineering capabilities with new customer opportunities.
Develop proposals and strategic plans for technology upgrades and capability expansion.
Drive cross-site collaboration and standardization in tooling, processes, and documentation.
Interface with internal and external stakeholders to ensure alignment on goals, milestones, and deliverables.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
Required: B.S. in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Manufacturing Engineering (or related field)
Preferred: M.S. in Engineering or Management
10+ years of experience in aerospace or defense manufacturing and 5+ years in a leadership role
Demonstrated success managing complex technical programs and cross-functional teams
Expertise in machining, spin forming, or related forming technologies
Experience with ERP and advanced business systems and CAD / CAM packages such as CATIA and Mastercam
Other Requirements:
Strong communication and leadership skills
U.S. citizenship required and ability to obtain a DOD SECRET clearance
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Must be able to work in a manufacturing environment
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. a7 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. a7 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.
