Operations Manager

Operations Manager 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 Hypersonics and Strategic Missile Defense business, which designs, develops, and delivers highly dependable missile systems for hypersonic and strategic missile defense missions. We provide integrated, mission-ready hardware that brings together multiple technologies into unified systems engineered to perform in demanding operational environments.

Our tip-to-tail capabilities include payload protection and deployment systems, propulsion systems, aerodynamic interstage systems, separation systems, missile subsystems, shroud systems, launch systems, and payload integration solutions. As an Operations Manager, you will lead and coordinate operational activities across manufacturing value streams and quality assurance to support efficient execution, organizational growth, and continuous improvement.

You will guide teams, oversee resource planning, and drive operational performance to ensure safe, high-quality, and cost-effective production aligned with program and organizational objectives.

Responsibilities

Oversees and coordinates operational activities across manufacturing value streams to support safe, high‑quality production. Maintains a safe and compliant working environment and reinforces safety as a core organizational value. Builds and develops strong teams to support current operations and future leadership needs.

Leads cross‑functional initiatives to meet productivity, quality, delivery, and cost objectives. Monitors and manages operational budgets, labor utilization, and resource planning. Manages personnel performance, disciplinary actions, and employee evaluations. Ensures staff receive appropriate training and effective work management support.

Promotes continuous improvement and implements lean manufacturing practices, including 6S. Recommends resource, space, and capability enhancements and tracks progress of related capital projects. Collaborates across departments to resolve operational issues and maintain program execution. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Business or Engineering, or equivalent experience.

Minimum 3 years of supervisory or management experience. Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and problem‑solving skills. Ability to work effectively as part of a cross‑functional team and provide hands‑on support as needed. Familiarity with aerospace materials, components, or specialized manufacturing processes.

Strong understanding of aerospace quality systems, including Aerospace Standard 9100 (AS9100) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) compliance. Proficiency with operational management tools and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, including EPICOR, MaintainX, Machine Metrics, and Microsoft Office Suite.

A current U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one.

Preferred Qualifications

4+ years of experience in aerospace manufacturing or a related regulated industry. Physical Requirements Ability to climb up and down stairs. Ability to lift up to 35 pounds. Regularly sits, stands, and walks. Sufficient hand, arm, and finger dexterity to operate a computer keyboard and other office equipment. Occasional reaching overhead, at shoulder level, and below shoulder level.

Prolonged periods of repetitive movement. The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

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.