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Product Technician - 1st Shift

Karman Space & Defense · Huntington Beach, CAtoday

Produce composite missile structures via tape wrapping, compression molding and hand layup, mixing resin and inspecting parts.

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Worth knowing

Why it is interesting. Hands-on composite fabrication for hypersonic and missile defense hardware supporting 130+ programs

Might not be for you. Physically demanding production work with 50 lb lifting and no R&D scope; U.S. person status required

Mostly at the benchHands-on executionMethodical pace BS acceptable

Adjacent materials rolePerforms tape wrapping, cutting, compression molding, and hand layup for composite materials; mixes and measures resin and adhesive; adjusts oven temperature controls

Seniority
Technician
Work
On-site
Type
Full-time
Experience
2–3 yrs
Industry
Defense
Role
Manufacturing / Production
Schedule
Standard
Benefits
tuition reimbursement

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 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.

The Production Technician supports manufacturing operations by working with composite structures, producing assemblies, and performing tape wrapping, cutting, compression molding, and hand layup activities. This role ensures products meet specifications through accurate measurement, inspection, and adherence to documented procedures. It also contributes to efficient production flow by maintaining equipment, following blueprints, and supporting daily operations on the manufacturing floor. Responsibilities Completes work orders and travelers according to production schedules. Applies International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001 and AS9100 standards in daily work.

Performs tape wrapping, cutting, compression molding, and hand layup processes for composite materials. Measures and visually inspects products using precision instruments to confirm conformance to specifications. Mixes and measures resin and adhesive materials. Adjusts oven temperature controls and reviews blueprints or instructions to determine methods or sequences. Maintains production and processing equipment. Performs upper‑body mobility tasks including bending, using arms and hands, and standing for extended periods.

Required Qualifications

Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. Ability to perform repetitive motion. 2 to 3 years of experience.

Preferred Qualifications

None listed. Physical Requirements Constant standing, walking, or sitting for at least 8 hours. Pushing, pulling, lifting, bending, stooping, or carrying up to 50 lbs, minimum 35 lbs. Prolonged repetitive movement. Holding, grasping, turning, or working with the hands. Occasional reaching overhead, at shoulder level, and below shoulder level. Occasional forklift driving. The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation. Special Mentions No travel required for this position.

First shift : 6:00 am - 2:30 pm 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. 1st shift - 6:00am to 2:30pm

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Common questions

Where is the Product Technician - 1st Shift role at Karman Space & Defense based?

This role is based in Huntington Beach, CA.

What degree is required for the Product Technician - 1st Shift role at Karman Space & Defense?

This role requires a Not specified.

How many years of experience does this Product Technician - 1st Shift role require?

The posting calls for 2–3 years of relevant experience.

What polymers or materials does this Product Technician - 1st Shift role work with?

composites, resin, adhesive.

What techniques or methods are required for this Product Technician - 1st Shift role?

precision measurement, visual inspection.