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.
