Site Manager (Aerospace/Machining)

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.

In this role, you will oversee all operational, financial, customer, and personnel activities for the Portland, Oregon site. You will lead cross‑functional teams to achieve operational excellence, deliver on program commitments, drive growth initiatives, strengthen customer relationships, and ensure the site operates safely, efficiently, and in alignment with company objectives.

Responsibilities

• Executes site operational strategies to meet customer commitments, financial goals, and performance targets.
• Leads staffing efforts with corporate and local human resources teams and ensures training on best practices and standardized work.
• Implements systems and processes that improve workflow, remove bottlenecks, and support programmatic success across departments.
• Establishes and maintains strong process controls to ensure on‑time delivery, zero defects, and expected margins using lean manufacturing and Six Sigma techniques.
• Optimizes facility utilization and product flow and tracks operational performance through sitewide metrics.
• Oversees adherence to financial reporting requirements and site key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Ensures overall site safety and compliance with safety policies.
• Builds relationships with customers and suppliers and supports proposal development and contracting activities.
• Leads sales and business development initiatives, including efforts to win new customers and programs and achieve year‑over‑year growth targets.
• Supports equipment and facility expansion planning to align capacity with future growth.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree.
• Fifteen or more years of experience in aerospace and defense engineering and manufacturing environments.
• Experience in program execution and operations within space, missile, defense, or hypersonic environments.
• Experience in operations and business development.
• Experience managing a profit and loss (P\&L) statement.
• Expertise in mechanical and technical environments.
• Ability to work effectively within diverse and complex business models in midsize to large organizations.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in matrixed environments.
• Lean manufacturing or Six Sigma experience.
• Ability to drive and sustain operational growth.
• Experience with AS9100 quality systems.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree.

Special Mentions

• No travel required.

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.