Quality Assurance Manager

Company Description Aergility is pioneering a new class of long-range, autonomous cargo aircraft that blend multirotor simplicity with fixed-wing efficiency. Using patented Managed Autorotation℗ technology, the company’s aircraft achieve vertical take-off and landing while delivering plane-like inflight performance, enabling reliable operations over challenging environments. Designed to carry mulitrole payloads inclduing 500 lb over distances of 500 miles, these platforms support critical missions with minimal infrastructure and no direct risk to human life. Aergility’s scalable, modular systems are engineered for DDIL operations, contested logistics, and rapid deployment across defense, humanitarian, and commercial applications. The technology is autonomous, cost-efficient, and rapidly serviceable, redefining heavy-lift eVTOL cargo delivery for an increasingly connected world.

Role Description The Quality Assurance Manager will oversee quality processes and standards for Aergility’s autonomous cargo aircraft platforms and related systems. This contract role is hybrid, yet largely based in Ocala, Central FL, with some work from home acceptable depending on project needs. Daily responsibilities include developing and maintaining QA policies and procedures, planning and executing test plans, monitoring product and process performance, and documenting quality records and corrective actions. The role will collaborate closely with engineering, manufacturing, and operations teams to conduct inspections, audits, and root cause analyses, ensuring regulatory and customer requirements are met. The Quality Assurance Manager will also drive continuous improvement initiatives, support certification and compliance activities, and provide clear reporting to leadership on quality metrics and risks.

Qualifications

• Experience with quality management systems, including developing and implementing QA processes, procedures, and documentation.
• Background in inspection, testing, and validation of complex mechanical, aerospace, or autonomous systems preferably leveraging AI systems and capabilities.
• Ability to perform root cause analysis, corrective and preventive actions, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Familiarity with relevant industry standards and regulations (e.g., aerospace, aviation, or unmanned systems guidelines) is highly beneficial.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with attention to detail in data review and reporting.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills for working with cross-functional teams and external partners.
• Proficiency with common QA tools and software for documentation, tracking issues, and measuring quality metrics.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, quality management, or a related technical field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Prior start up and established business experience in aerospace, aviation, defense, or unmanned systems environments is a plus.
• Ability to work on-site in Ocala, FL in a hybrid arrangement and manage priorities in a fast-paced, innovative setting.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain quality assurance policies, processes, and procedures in compliance with aerospace industry standards (AS9100, FAA regulations including FAA CFR Part 108, FAA CFR Part 145, FAA 14 CFR Part 21.)
• Lead audits, inspections, and assessments to ensure adherence to quality standards and regulatory requirements. 
• Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain teams to identify and resolve quality-related issues. 
• Manage corrective and preventive action programs to address non-conformances and improve quality performance. 
• Oversee the implementation of statistical process control (SPC) methods and other quality control techniques. 
• Ensure supplier quality management and conduct supplier audits to maintain high standards. 
• Provide leadership in root cause analysis and problem-solving for quality defects and deviations. 
• Train and mentor employees on quality principles, standards, and best practices. 
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and other methodologies to enhance efficiency and reduce defects. 
• Prepare and present reports on quality metrics, trends, and improvement strategies to senior management.