Lead Quality Engineer – Aerospace, Analytics & Audit

Hexcel Corporation; Delaware; On-site; USD 78,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Hexcel Corporation, a global leader in advanced composites, seeks a Quality Engineer III for its Kent, WA site. You will lead quality initiatives, drive inspection planning, change management, and BOM planning to ensure accuracy and reliability across processes.

The role requires a Bachelor’s in engineering or related field with 5+ years in quality engineering, AS9100/Nadcap expertise, supplier quality leadership, and a Lean/Six Sigma mindset.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Quality, or related field; master’s preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in quality engineering with leadership responsibilities.
• Expertise in quality management systems (AS9100, Nadcap) and advanced analytics.
• Proven ability in strategic planning, supplier quality management, and cross-functional leadership.
• Strong leadership, communication, and influencing skills with a strategic decision-making mindset.
• Experience with digital transformation in quality, predictive tools, and data analytics platforms.
• ASQ certifications (CQE preferred) and Lead Auditor training desirable.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications, including MBD; familiarity with measurement and inspection equipment.
• Experience with composite materials and lean manufacturing is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Comply with Hexcel policies, procedures, and Code of Business Conduct.
• Review contracts, drawings, and specifications to develop quality plans and inspection criteria; approve production planning for quality, first article, and inspection requirements.
• Create and maintain quality documentation to support accuracy and compliance.
• Communicate quality standards internally and externally; maintain strong customer relationships and support workforce training.
• Review and process non-conforming materials; lead corrective and preventive actions and support MRB activities.
• Conduct internal and external audits; evaluate findings and implement corrective actions.
• Lead strategic quality planning and drive cross-functional initiatives, including enterprise-level improvement and innovation projects.
• Develop and implement supplier quality strategies and global alignment programs.
• Utilize predictive analytics and digital quality systems to enhance quality performance.
• Mentor level I & II QEs and other team members; provide formal leadership in quality projects.

Skills

Quality leadership

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Strategic planning

Problem solving

Data analytics

AS9100 knowledge

Interpretation of drawings

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering/quality

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

ASQ CQE

Lead Auditor training

Lean Six Sigma tools

Job description

Hexcel Corporation, a global leader in advanced composites, seeks a Quality Engineer III for its Kent, WA site. You will lead quality initiatives, drive inspection planning, change management, and BOM planning to ensure accuracy and reliability across processes.

The role requires a Bachelor’s in engineering or related field with 5+ years in quality engineering, AS9100/Nadcap expertise, supplier quality leadership, and a Lean/Six Sigma mindset.