Assembly Technician

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 Tactical Missiles and Integrated Defense Systems business, which designs and develops integrated missile and defense systems that support critical missions across air, land, and sea. We combine comprehensive analysis, engineering, and program execution capabilities to deliver mission-tailored solutions that reduce lead times, lower costs, and simplify complex multi-vendor supply chains. Backed by decades of flight-proven and fielded performance, we design and build mission-critical technologies including launch systems, propulsion, payload integration solutions, UAV components, missile subsystems, and Safe & Arm systems.

As an Assembly Technician at our Salt Lake City, Utah facility, you will work in a hands-on manufacturing environment supporting engineering, manufacturing, testing, and production activities. We are hiring across multiple experience levels, from developing technicians building their aerospace manufacturing capabilities to experienced senior technicians supporting complex assembly, testing, production coordination, training, and technical leadership.

Responsibilities

• Perform mechanical assembly according to verbal and written instructions, including fastening, bonding, riveting, and related assembly processes.
• Support production, manufacturing, engineering, and testing activities.
• Read and follow blueprints, schematics, technical diagrams, work instructions, and other manufacturing documentation.
• Safely use hand tools, power tools, chemicals, adhesives, solvents, and related production equipment.
• Support engineering test setup and execution, including test procedures, test plans, instrumentation, and data collection.
• Use Epicor or other applicable systems to track hardware, jobs, schedules, and production activity.
• Assist with packaging, shipping, receiving, and movement of hardware and equipment.
• Support production schedules and communicate status to appropriate production, engineering, and program personnel.
• Provide technical guidance, training, onboarding support, and assistance to less-experienced technicians.
• Maintain safe, clean, and organized work areas while following established safety and security procedures.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and ability to safely use hand and power tools.
• Ability to read and understand blueprints, schematics, technical diagrams, and manufacturing instructions.
• Ability to perform hands-on mechanical assembly in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong attention to detail, communication skills, work ethic, and commitment to quality and safety.
• Ability to work effectively with engineering, manufacturing, production, and technical teams.

Job Level Requirements

• Assembly Technician I: Minimum of 1 year of relevant technical, manufacturing, construction, electrical, plumbing, facility maintenance, or related hands-on experience.
  • Pay range $22.00-$28.00
• Assembly Technician II: Minimum of 2 years of relevant aerospace, defense, manufacturing, or related production experience.
  • Pay range $27.00-$34.00
• Assembly Technician III: Minimum of 4 years of relevant aerospace, defense, manufacturing, or related technical experience.
  • Pay range $33.00-$40.00
• Senior Assembly Technician: Minimum of 5 years of relevant aerospace, defense, manufacturing, or related technical experience.
  • Pay range $38.00-$48.00

Preferred Qualifications

• Aerospace or defense manufacturing experience.
• Experience with fastening, bonding, riveting, and mechanical assembly processes.
• Experience supporting engineering testing, test setup, and test execution.
• Experience with test data acquisition and instrumentation.
• Knowledge of military and commercial industry specifications.
• Experience using Epicor or a similar Enterprise Resource Planning system.
• Experience supporting production scheduling and hardware tracking.
• Knowledge of environmental testing.
• Strong computer proficiency and familiarity with common office applications.
• Demonstrated team or project leadership experience.
• Experience training, mentoring, or onboarding less-experienced technicians.
• Associate's degree or higher.
• Ability to obtain and maintain BATF authorization to handle explosives for positions where required.

Physical Requirements

• Moderate physical and repetitive work.
• Standing for extended periods of time.
• Use of stairs and occasional heavy lifting.

Special Mentions

• 1st Shift: 6:00 am to 2:30 pm

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

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.

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: 6:00 am to 2:30 pm