What are the responsibilities and job description for the Quality Engineering Supervisor position at Fairbanks Morse Defense?
Quality Engineering Supervisor, FMA
Fairbanks Morse Defense | FMA Division Function: Quality Reports to: Director of Quality, FMA Indirect Reports: Eastern Region Service Director Location: Chesapeake, VA
About Fairbanks Morse Engine
Fairbanks Morse Engine (FME), based in Beloit, Wisconsin, designs, manufactures, tests, and supports heavy-duty, medium-speed reciprocating engines under the Fairbanks Morse® and ALCO® brands.
FME systems power critical U.S. and allied naval missions, supporting the U.S. Navy, Military Sealift Command, U.S. Coast Guard, and Canadian Coast Guard. These engines directly enable mission readiness, global logistics, and national defense operations.
As part of Fairbanks Morse Defense, FME is a leading provider of mission-critical marine power solutions supporting defense operations worldwide. Learn more: www.fairbanksmorse.com
Position Summary
This is a leadership role within the Quality function supporting aftermarket and field operations in the FMA region.
The Quality Engineering Supervisor acts as both a technical expert and people leader, responsible for developing Quality Engineers and Quality Technicians who directly support mission-critical defense customer operations.
You will ensure execution of the ISO 9001 Quality Management System, drive continuous improvement, and strengthen quality performance across field and aftermarket service operations. This role is central to ensuring reliability, compliance, and readiness of systems supporting defense customers worldwide.
Principle Duties and Responsibilities
· Performs the Quality Engineer (QE) role in the FMA region (see QE job description).
· Trains and mentors other Quality Engineers in the FMA Division.
· Leads, mentors, and deploys a team of quality technicians (QT) supporting front-line project quality and customer support.
· Deploys QTs in support of the aftermarket organization’s ISO 9001 Quality Management System.
Leadership & Development
· Mentors and develops QTs through structured coaching and development programs.
· Supports and guides Quality Engineers to ensure consistent application of standards and best practices.
Quality Systems, Compliance & Improvement
· Develops, executes, and tracks continuous improvement initiatives.
· Supports FMA Division and regional QEs through:
o Internal and external quality system audits across workshops and field locations
o Review, correction, and approval of quality evidence
o Coordination of customer witnessed inspections and checkpoints
o Root cause analysis and corrective action implementation
o Investigation and verification of corrective actions for customer complaints and audit findings
o Development of process controls and standard work for aftermarket and field service operations
o Support of customer witnessed inspections
o Timely and accurate submission of quality records to customers
o ISO 9001 system implementation and improvement across aftermarket regions
o Quality systems analysis and process improvement recommendations
o Implementation of major continuous improvement initiatives
o Inspection and testing of incoming materials, components, and finished products
o Review and approval of supplier material certifications
Qualifications, Skills and Educational Requirements
· Bachelor’s degree in Business, Manufacturing, Engineering, or related technical field
· Minimum 3 years of experience as a Quality Engineer, Quality Assurance Officer (Military), or Reliability Engineer in manufacturing or service environment
· Ability to develop and implement strategic quality improvement plans and drive continuous improvement aligned to business objectives
· Advanced knowledge of quality engineering principles and defense contracting standards/regulations
· Strong communicator with proven ability to mentor, motivate, and influence across all levels
· Experience with diesel engine generator set system components (form, fit, function) preferred
· Strong knowledge of ISO 9001 and service-based quality systems
· Strong problem-solving skills using standard quality tools
Additional Requirements
This position requires access or potential access to Unclassified Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information, which is Not Releasable to Foreign Nationals (NOFORN). To comply, candidates must provide proof of U.S. citizenship and attest that they do not hold dual citizenship. Acceptable documentation includes a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate.
Why This Role Matters
This role directly supports naval and defense operations where equipment reliability is mission critical. The Quality Engineering Supervisor ensures systems meet strict performance, safety, and compliance standards before and after field deployment.
This is a mission-driven leadership opportunity for professionals who want to support real-world defense readiness, operational reliability, and global maritime security.
Fairbanks Morse is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities