Quality Assurance Lead

Job Functions

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of customer requirements and applicable industry standards
• Stay informed of changes and updates to customer specifications
• Review, analyze, and interpret customer specifications, engineering drawings, and related work instructions
• Ensure First Article Inspection (FAI) requirements are met, including completion and maintenance of all required documentation in accordance with aerospace standards (e.g., AS9102)
• Communicate quality-related concerns and nonconformances to quality leadership
• Track and analyze inspection results (e.g., first-pass yield) to identify emerging quality trends
• Develop, implement, and sustain quality improvement plans that identify root causes and align with departmental quality objectives
• Ensure compliance with organizational policies, procedures, and customer requirements; take corrective action as needed
• Monitor and report quality assurance staffing and scheduling needs
• Develop and maintain a Quality Assurance training and competency matrix
• Provide support to receiving and final inspection activities as required
• Apply root cause analysis and corrective/preventive action methodologies; assist with or lead internal and external CAPA activities
• Conduct audits and verification activities when assigned
• Communicate effectively and professionally with production leadership, operators, trainers, engineers, program management, quality leadership, and external inspectors or customer representatives
• Take a leadership role in team-based problem solving and continuous improvement initiatives
• Operate with a high degree of independence, making sound decisions when direct supervision is not immediately available
• Use required personal protective equipment based on job tasks
• Follow all safety policies and equipment operation guidelines
• Support lean manufacturing initiatives by:
• Teaching, coaching, and mentoring team members
• Facilitating lean activities within assigned areas
• Identifying process improvement opportunities and relevant metrics
• Collaborating with lean coordinators to track and report progress
• Supporting and coordinating lean training efforts
• Perform additional related duties as assigned
• Exercise the authority and responsibility necessary to complete assigned tasks
• Participate in Foreign Object Damage (FOD) prevention activities and, if assigned, serve as a FOD focal point in accordance with established prevention plans

Education, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of a manufacturing Quality Management System (QMS) and associated procedures
• Proficient computer skills, including experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and enterprise systems (e.g., ERP/MRP platforms)
• Working knowledge of task-specific quality or inspection software
• Effective communication skills for interacting with customers, suppliers, and internal teams
• Ability to obtain required industry certifications (e.g., IPC-A-610 Certified IPC Specialist) within a defined timeframe, if applicable
• High level of attention to detail with the ability to manage stressful situations
• Reliable attendance and flexibility to work extended hours or overtime as business needs require

Equipment and Tools Used

• Precision inspection tools such as digital calipers and pin gauges
• Daily use of computers and related software for data entry, reporting, and analysis
• Standard office equipment including copiers, calculators, and related devices

Equal Opportunity Employer

This employer is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees. All applicants are entitled to understand their rights under federal employment laws. For more information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the U.S. Department of Labor.