What are the responsibilities and job description for the Quality Engineer position at Hartzell Propeller?
Description
Hartzell Propeller was founded in 1917 and is headquartered in Piqua, Ohio. Hartzell Propeller is the global leader in advanced aircraft propeller design and manufacturing technology for general aviation applications – both piston engine and turboprop – as well as custom propulsion solutions for electric, hybrid-electric aircraft and advanced air mobility programs. In 2021, Hartzell Propeller acquired Tanis Aircraft Products to expand Hartzell’s heating products and expanded its offerings in the experimental propeller market with the acquisition of Whirlwind Propeller in 2024. Hartzell expanded its offerings in the MRO market with 2024 acquisitions of American Propeller Service, Texas Aircraft Propeller Tiffin Aire Inc, and Canadian Propeller Ltd.
Our Culture
We are a team that prides ourselves on a culture that supports shared values of empowerment, accountability, drive, integrity, and respect. Our team shares a deep commitment to safety and collaboration. We offer a comprehensive benefits package to support your well-being and professional growth including medical, dental, vision, paid time off, life insurance, 401(K) plans with employer match, company provided Growth Participation Units (GPU) and so much more.
Our GPU benefit is unique to the industry and encourages all employees to think like owners and receive future financial reward for contributions to business growth. Join our team to be part of a culture that encourages growth and development and celebrates our success.
Key Responsibilities:
Hartzell Propeller is looking for a Quality Engineer for our MRO Division who will be responsible for supporting and improving the quality management system (QMS), driving corrective/preventive actions, performing root cause analysis, leading internal audits, and ensuring compliance with regulatory, customer, and company quality standards for multiple sites. This role partners closely with operations, engineering, suppliers, and leadership to ensure that products and services meet the highest levels of safety, reliability, and quality.
Key Deliverables of the Position:
1) Monitor, analyze, and improve product quality through inspections, testing, and data review.
2) Conduct root cause analysis and lead corrective and preventive action (CAPA) activities.
3) Support and maintain compliance with FAA, OEM, ISO, and internal quality standards.
4) Develop, update, and implement quality procedures, work instructions, and process controls.
5) Lead internal audits and support external audits from regulatory bodies or customers.
6) Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve workflows, eliminate waste, and enhance quality performance.
7) Assist with supplier quality activities, including evaluations, performance monitoring, and issue resolution.
8) Perform other duties as assigned by the department.
First Year Success Factors
1) Establishes a strong understanding of the company’s quality systems, FAA and OEM requirements, and internal processes within the first 90 days.
2) Builds effective working relationships with operations, engineering, technicians, suppliers, and leadership, earning trust as a reliable quality partner.
3) Demonstrates consistent accuracy and thoroughness in inspections, documentation, and data analysis with minimal oversight.
4) Leads and completes root cause analysis and CAPA initiatives that result in measurable improvements to process performance or reduction in recurring issues.
5) Successfully participates in or leads internal audits and contributes to a positive outcome during regulatory or external audits.
6) Identifies at least 2–3 actionable process improvement opportunities that enhance safety, efficiency, or product quality.
7) Effectively manages time and priorities to support production requirements without delays or quality escapes.
8) Displays strong ownership of quality responsibilities while modeling the company values of empowerment, accountability, drive, integrity, and respect.
Requirements
Education and Experience
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, quality, or related technical field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• Prior experience in manufacturing, aerospace, MRO, A&P Certification, or mechanical systems strongly preferred.
Technical Competencies
1) Quality Tools & Methods – Ability to apply root cause analysis, CAPA, FMEA, SPC, and other quality methodologies.
2) Technical/Mechanical Understanding – Demonstrated ability to understand technical drawings, specifications, and mechanical systems.
3) Interpretation of Standards – Experience working with AS9100, ISO 9001, FAA regulations, or similar standards.
4) Data Analysis – Ability to collect, interpret, and report quality data to identify trends and drive improvement.
5) Computer Skills – Proficiency with quality systems software, Microsoft Office, and data tracking tools.
Behavioral Competencies – Demonstrates behaviors consistent with our values
1) Thinks and acts like an owner
o Uses company resources wisely & cost-effectively
o Shows pride in the organization and a commitment to its long-term success
o Takes full responsibility for their actions
o Holds self to high standards of performance and integrity
2) Demonstrates high integrity
o Consistently acts with honestly, transparency and high ethics
o Makes decisions based on what is morally right
o Owns their actions and holds self-accountable
3) Puts team above self; in it together
o Prioritizes team and company over personal gain
o Collaborates with team members within the department and across all functions
Contributes to a positive, inclusive work environment
4) Innovates and improves
o Actively supports or initiates continuous improvement efforts
o Shares ideas and suggests solutions that enhance team or business performance
o Stays open to feedback and embraces changes
o Demonstrates a bias towards action
5) Honors commitments
o Consistently follows through on project timelines, meeting and deliverables
o Takes ownership for responsibilities and delivers results
o Makes and holds commitment
o Communicates proactively when challenges arise and adjusts plans to stay on track
Hartzell Propeller has a pre-employment and random Federal Drug & Alcohol Testing requirement and tests for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines and phencyclidine in addition to alcohol.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veteran/Disability/E-Verify