Composites Technician I

Role details

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 Space and Launch business, which has contributed to the nation’s space programs for decades by delivering complete solutions from concept to flight. We enable successful space operations with mission-critical technology supporting every step from first launch to final landing, including launch vehicle subsystems, propulsion systems, aerodynamic and interstage systems, and payload protection and deployment. Our high-performance solutions are engineered to operate in the most extreme environments and meet precise mission requirements.

As a Composites Technician I, you support the production of high‑performance composite structures through hands-on layup, tool preparation, material handling, and precision fabrication work. You contribute directly to building complex components that meet strict aerospace specifications, ensuring quality, consistency, and reliable performance across critical launch and space systems.

Responsibilities

• Builds composite parts using hand layup techniques and supported processes.
• Prepares tooling and work areas for layup and fabrication activities.
• Performs visual inspections to identify foreign object debris before bagging and processing.
• Reads and uses precision measuring tools and instruments to verify part accuracy.
• Applies chemicals, adhesives, and solvents in accordance with supported procedures.
• Reads and interprets blueprints and drawings to follow detailed work instructions.
• Executes vacuum bagging and trimming operations to support part fabrication.
• Maintains a clean and safe work environment and reports potentially unsafe conditions.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma.
• Experience using basic hand and power tools.

Preferred Qualifications

• More than 1 year of experience in a technical field such as construction, electrical, plumbing, or facility maintenance.

Physical Requirements

• Moderate physical and repetitious work.
• Standing for extended periods of time.
• Use of stairs.
• Occasional heavy lifting. The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

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.

Monday-Thursday

3:00 PM-1:30AM