CMM Inspector

Karman Space & Defense; Wilsonville (OR); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

HSA with company contribution

FSA

Company‑paid life and AD&D insurance

Short‑ and long‑term disability

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Karman Space & Defense is seeking a CMM Programmer to program, set up, and operate Coordinate Measurement Machines for precision aerospace components. You will develop inspection plans, work with machinists, and ensure first article and production part conformance.

Applicants should read complex blueprints, apply GD&T, and use metrology tools such as micrometers and height gauges. A background in mechanical inspection and CMM programming is essential for quality and accuracy.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; CNC/ metrology training preferred.
• 5+ years in mechanical inspection with 2+ years programming CMMs.
• Able to read complex blueprints and use precision inspection instruments.
• Experience with GD&T and first article/production part validation.

Responsibilities

• Program, set up, and operate CMMs to inspect parts with tight tolerances.
• Create CMM inspection programs from drawings and models.
• Verify machining results using inspection tools and GD&T.
• Collaborate with machinists to ensure part conformance.
• Maintain equipment and uphold QMS/EMS initiatives.
• Support clean, organized inspection area and cross-functional communication.

Skills

CMM programming

GD&T

Blueprint reading

Metrology tools

Quality assurance

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

CNC certification/training

Tools

Verisurf

PC-DMIS

Micrometers

Height gauges

Calipers

Job description

CMM Programmer

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.

The CMM Programmer supports precision manufacturing by programming, setting up, and operating Coordinate Measurement Machines (CMMs) to verify highly accurate machined components. The role develops inspection approaches, collaborates with machinists to confirm part compliance, and ensures consistent, high-quality verification of complex aerospace and defense parts.

Responsibilities

• Programs, sets up, and operates Coordinate Measurement Machines to inspect parts with close-tolerance and finish specifications.
• Creates CMM programs from customer technical drawings and models to verify machining results.
• Utilizes inspection tools to confirm compliance with technical drawings.
• Interprets technical drawings to develop effective inspection approaches.
• Collaborates with machinists to verify first article and production part compliance.
• Performs visual inspections to evaluate workmanship.
• Sets up and uses special inspection equipment as required.
• Maintains equipment and keeps the inspection area clean and organized.
• Supports company initiatives related to Quality Management Systems and Environmental Management Systems.
• Maintains positive and cooperative communications and collaboration with employees, customers, contractors, and vendors.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Five or more years of experience in a mechanical inspection role.
• Two or more years of experience programming Coordinate Measurement Machines.
• Ability to read complex blueprints and use precision inspection instruments such as micrometers, calipers, and height gages.
• Knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
• Verbal and written communication, interpersonal, organizational, and basic math skills.
• Pre-employment drug test required.
• Background check required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification in Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining technology, equivalent trade school or military training, or related CNC machining experience.
• Ten or more years of experience programming Coordinate Measurement Machines.
• Proficiency in Verisurf inspection software; PCDMIS experience a plus.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and meet deadlines.
• Strong organizational skills, follow-up abilities, and attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain regular and predictable attendance.

Physical Requirements

• None supported by the source.

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.

Schedule

Monday-Friday 8AM – 4:30PM