Capability Development Manager Jobs in Anacortes, WA

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.

In this role, you will lead the planning, execution, and delivery of complex aerospace and defense programs that integrate engineering, manufacturing, quality, and customer requirements. You will guide cross-functional engineering teams, manage program performance, coordinate customer and stakeholder communication, and ensure technical, schedule, and contractual commitments are met. Your work directly supports mission-critical capabilities and advances key company programs.

Schedule

• This shift follows a 9/80 schedule: 9 hours Monday through Thursday, 8 hours Friday, with every other Friday off.

Responsibilities

• Leads cross-functional engineering teams in the design, development, analysis, and testing of mechanical and pyrotechnic components and systems.
• Interfaces with customers and internal leadership to maintain clear communication and alignment.
• Supports business development through proposal writing and participation in new business meetings.
• Ensures complete and accurate documentation of engineering activities, including drawings, reports, and presentations.
• Tracks program performance using key metrics and proactively identifies risks and mitigation actions.
• Supports technical reviews and program milestone reviews.
• Facilitates program planning, technical decision-making, and change management across engineering teams.
• Manages scope, cost, schedule, and technical performance while balancing competing priorities.
• Coordinates proposal efforts, capture activities, and the transition from business development to program execution.
• Partners with Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, Contracts, and Finance to ensure successful program delivery.
• Performs other related duties as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related technical field.
• At least 5 years of engineering experience, including a minimum of 2 years in aerospace engineering or systems engineering.
• Demonstrated ability to develop, plan, and execute projects.
• Demonstrated experience leading cross-functional engineering teams.
• Experience managing cost, schedule, scope, and technical risks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a related technical field or a Master of Business Administration (MBA).
• At least 2 years of experience managing complex technical programs in defense, aerospace, or government technology sectors.

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.