CMM Programmer

Karman Space & Defense; Arlington (WA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 66,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Health Savings Account (HSA) with 회사 매

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

Company-paid life and AD&D insurance

Short- and long-term disability

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Karman Space & Defense is seeking an experienced CMM Programmer to develop and execute inspection programs for aerospace components. You will work with machinists and quality staff to ensure first-article and production parts meet tight tolerances, interpret complex drawings, and document measurement results.

You will use Verisurf and PCDMIS software with Coordinate Measuring Machines, maintaining accuracy, compliance, and a safe, organized work area in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Five or more years of experience in mechanical inspection.
• Two or more years of programming Coordinate Measurement Machines.
• Ability to read complex blueprints and use precision measuring instruments.
• Knowledge of GD&T.
• Strong verbal and written communication and basic math skills.
• Ability to pass pre-employment drug test and background check.

Responsibilities

• Programs, sets up, and operates Coordinate Measurement Machines to inspect mechanical components with close‑tolerance specifications.
• Creates CMM programs from customer drawings and models to verify machining accuracy.
• Uses inspection instruments such as micrometers, calipers, height gauges to confirm part compliance.
• Interprets drawings and applies GD&T to execute inspection plans.
• Collaborates with machinists to verify results and resolve issues.
• Performs visual inspections to validate workmanship and identify nonconformities.
• Maintains organized workspace and basic equipment maintenance.
• Supports quality and environmental management systems and regulatory requirements.
• Follows procedures and maintains compliance and communication with team.

Skills

Mechanical inspection

CMM programming

GD&T

Reading blueprints

Communication

Math

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Verisurf Inspection Software

PCDMIS

Coordinate Measuring Machines

Job description

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.

As a CMM Programmer, you develop and execute inspection programs and processes that verify complex aerospace parts meet precise dimensional requirements. You partner closely with machinists and quality personnel to inspect first‑article and production components, interpret technical drawings, and apply measurement expertise to support production accuracy. This role ensures adherence to tight tolerances, supports quality documentation, and contributes to producing reliable, mission-critical hardware through careful inspection, collaboration, and problem‑solving.

Schedule

Day shift – 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Responsibilities

• Programs, sets up, and operates Coordinate Measurement Machines to inspect mechanical components with close‑tolerance specifications.
• Creates CMM programs from customer technical drawings and models to verify machining accuracy.
• Uses inspection instruments such as micrometers, calipers, height gages, and specialized tooling to confirm part compliance.
• Interprets complex technical drawings and applies geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) to execute inspection plans.
• Collaborates with machinists to verify first‑article and production results and support timely issue resolution.
• Performs visual inspections to validate workmanship and identify nonconformities.
• Maintains an organized work area and completes basic cleaning and equipment maintenance tasks.
• Supports quality management systems, environmental management systems, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Follows company procedures, operating processes, and task instructions to maintain compliance.
• Maintains positive communication and collaboration with employees, customers, contractors, and vendors.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Five or more years of experience in mechanical inspection.
• Two or more years of programming Coordinate Measurement Machines.
• Ability to read complex blueprints and use a range of precision measurement instruments.
• Demonstrated knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
• Strong verbal and written communication, organizational, and basic math skills.
• Ability to pass a pre‑employment drug test.Ability to pass a background check.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification in Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining technology, equivalent trade school or military training, or comparable related experience.
• Ten or more years of experience programming Coordinate Measurement Machines.
• High proficiency with Verisurf inspection software; PCDMIS experience is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask, prioritize, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to maintain regular and predictable attendance.

Physical Requirements

• Standing for extended periods.
• Occasional heavy lifting.
• Repetitive motions and moderate physical work.
• Use of stairs.

The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

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

Hourly Rate

$40 - $48 USD

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, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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