Program Planner

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 supports our Defense Systems business, bringing together Hypersonics, Strategic Missile Defense, Tactical Missiles, and Integrated Defense Systems. Modern defense missions demand more than piecemeal parts or patchwork products; they require hardware that seamlessly integrates disparate technologies into a unified system. Backed by decades of flight-proven performance, our teams deliver tailored mission-ready solutions across air, land, and sea, including: launch and deployment systems, propulsion, payload protection, integration and deployment.

In this role, you develop accurate and complete manufacturing planning for a wide range of parts, composites, engineering jobs, and assemblies. You collaborate closely with program managers, engineers, manufacturing, quality, and purchasing teams to ensure plans fully reflect engineering requirements and support efficient fabrication, assembly, and procurement. Your work enables clear production direction, reliable material flow, and effective coordination across teams.

Schedule

• This role follows a 9/80 schedule, with 9-hour shifts Monday through Thursday, an 8-hour shift every other Friday, and the alternating Friday off.

Responsibilities

• Interprets engineered prints and engineering database information to create complete and accurate manufacturing plans using EPICOR Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP).
• Coordinates with program managers and engineers to incorporate product requirements into planning.
• Works with manufacturing and production leads to integrate fabrication and assembly processes into planning.
• Collaborates with quality engineering and quality assurance to ensure quality requirements are fully reflected in planning.
• Prepares purchase requisitions and develops purchase suggestions based on program needs.
• Maintains bills of materials (BOMs) and uses them alongside planning to guide purchasing activities.
• Solicits supplier quotes as needed.
• Tracks delivery dates and on-time status for purchased and manufactured materials.
• Works closely with manufacturing departments and suppliers to resolve issues and maintain progress.
• Communicates changes or deviations from plans to program managers.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's degree in a related discipline.
• Three or more years of applicable experience.
• One or more years of experience with EPICOR ERP software.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to walk and climb stairs to access production areas across multi‑building facilities.
• Ability to work in production environments that may involve dust, dirt, fumes, noise, and varying temperatures.
• Ability to follow safety protocols, including use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, use hands frequently for typing and handling files, operate standard office equipment, and communicate by phone or in person.

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.