Director of Quality

A leading aerospace and defense manufacturer in Los Angeles is seeking a Director of Quality to oversee all Quality Assurance, Quality Control, and Quality Systems functions across the organization. This role is responsible for maintaining compliance with industry certifications including AS9100 Rev D and Nadcap, while building a culture of operational discipline, continuous improvement, and product reliability. The Director of Quality will partner closely with Operations, Engineering, and Supply Chain to strengthen processes, support customer programs, and uphold a high standard of quality throughout all manufacturing activities.

Responsibilities

• Direct the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the company’s Quality Management System in accordance with AS9100 and Nadcap requirements.
• Lead and mentor a high-performing quality organization, establishing expectations, coaching team members, and ensuring strong performance at all levels.
• Establish, track, and analyze quality metrics and KPIs to identify trends, reduce defects, and improve process capability.
• Coordinate internal audits and manage external audits from customers, regulatory agencies, and certification bodies, ensuring timely closure of findings and maintaining compliance across all functions.
• Engage with customers on quality-related matters, support customer reviews, and serve as the primary escalation point for audit activity and technical quality discussions.
• Oversee supplier quality performance, including supplier audits, incoming material verification, and supplier corrective action activities.
• Lead investigations using structured RCCA methodologies (8D, 5Y, cause-and-effect analysis, etc.) and implement corrective and preventive actions that address systemic issues.
• Collaborate with Operations and Engineering to strengthen process discipline, validate changes, and ensure quality requirements are integrated into daily production activities.
• Prepare and deliver regular reports to executive leadership outlining quality performance, audit readiness, risk areas, and long-term improvement strategies.
• Develop the strategic roadmap for the quality function, aligning departmental objectives with organizational priorities and long-term business goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, or a related technical field required; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 12 years of experience in aerospace or defense manufacturing, with at least 7 years in a leadership capacity.
• Proven experience developing, maintaining, and improving Quality Management Systems aligned to AS9100, ISO 9001, and Nadcap standards.
• Demonstrated success leading quality teams and driving cross-functional accountability.
• Strong background in RCCA, CAPA, SPC, FMEA, and other structured problem-solving methodologies.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to effectively interface with executives, customers, suppliers, and cross-functional leaders.
• Ability to define long-term quality strategies and execute both strategic and day-to-day quality initiatives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Salary: $175,000 - $200,000