Entry Level Defense Contractor Jobs in Seattle, 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.

The Assembly Technician supports hands-on production, engineering, and manufacturing activities by performing mechanical assembly, assisting with testing, and contributing to hardware packaging and shipping. This role helps ensure components and assemblies meet technical requirements and production timelines by working directly with engineering staff, manufacturing teams, and quality personnel in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Performs mechanical assembly using verbal and written instructions, including fastening, bonding, and riveting.
• Supports engineering testing and manufacturing activities.
• Reads and interprets blueprints, schematics, and technical diagrams.
• Uses chemicals, adhesives, and solvents as required.
• Works within the enterprise resource planning (ERP) system (Epicor) to track hardware and support on-time job completion.
• Assists with test setup and execution.
• Supports packaging and shipping of hardware and equipment.
• Follows safety and security procedures and reports potentially unsafe conditions.

Required Qualifications

• Experience using basic hand and power tools with strong mechanical aptitude.
• Basic understanding of hand tools and willingness to expand technical skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to produce high-quality work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Self-motivated with a positive, team-oriented attitude and ability to work independently.
• Ability to stand and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.
• Ability to safely use chemicals, adhesives, and solvents following procedures and wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Typically 2 or more years of experience in aerospace, defense, manufacturing, or a related production environment.
• Experience with surface preparation of metallic or composite materials.
• Experience with foreign object debris (FOD) controls.
• Experience with electrostatic discharge (ESD) sensitive hardware or clean room environments.
• Experience operating in a fast-paced environment with high attention to detail.

Physical Requirements

• Moderate physical and repetitive work.
• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Use of stairs.
• Ability to lift heavy objects occasionally.
  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.

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.