Position Overview
Product Assurance Manager II – Hagerstown, MD
The Product Assurance Manager II leads the development, application, and maintenance of quality evaluation and control systems for processing materials into finished products. This role involves overseeing complex inspections, testing, and evaluating precision and accuracy, ensuring compliance with quality standards, and providing strategic recommendations for continuous improvement. The manager also mentors junior staff, collaborates with cross‑functional teams, and provides direct oversight for all inspection personnel at the Hagerstown, MD facility.
Responsibilities
- Serve as the designated FOD Manager in accordance with DCMA Instruction 8210 requirements, ensuring robust Foreign Object Damage prevention, awareness, and compliance across all inspection and production areas.
- Provide oversight of aircraft induction and return to service activities, ensuring accurate preliminary inspections, discrepancy documentation, configuration verification, records review, and compliance with all regulatory and contractual requirements throughout the induction and RTS lifecycle.
- Lead the development and maintenance of quality control systems and protocols for processing materials into finished products.
- Oversee complex inspections, testing, and evaluations of product precision and accuracy.
- Ensure that corrective measures and deviations meet acceptable reliability standards.
- Maintain and update comprehensive quality documentation and records.
- Conduct and lead audits of production processes to ensure adherence to quality standards and specifications.
- Collaborate with engineering, production, and management teams to address quality issues and implement improvements.
- Mentor and train quality assurance staff on quality standards, procedures, and best practices.
- Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for identified issues.
- Utilize advanced inspection tools and techniques to verify product specifications and drive process improvements.
Qualifications – Must Have
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field of study or equivalent experience (13+ years if no degree).
- 9+ years of progressive product assurance experience.
- In‑depth knowledge of ISO 9001 and AS/AS 9100 standards.
- In‑depth knowledge of Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) and government requirements and standards.
- Ability to understand and interpret technical electrical and mechanical drawings, parts lists, and test procedures.
- In‑depth knowledge of FAA 14 CFR, including airworthiness, maintenance, inspection, and conformity regulations.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Certification in Quality Assurance or related field (e.g., ASQ).
- Experience in the aerospace or defense industry.
- Knowledge of FAA 14 CFR Part 145 Repair Station requirements.
- Knowledge of FAA 14 CFR Part 21 (PMA, conformity inspection, STC).
- Proficiency with IPC‑A‑610 and IPC/WHMA‑A‑620 for avionics and electrical harness inspection.
- Experience with Non‑Destructive Testing (NDT), specifically Dye Penetrant Inspection per ASTM E1417 and SAE AS3071 criteria.
- Knowledge of Chemical Conversion Coating processes per MIL‑DTL5541.
- Understanding of aircraft weight and balance principles and documentation.
Essential Functions
- Ability to lift up to 25 lbs regularly.
- Standing for extended periods during inspections.
- Dexterity to handle small parts and use inspection tools.
- Ability to work in a noisy environment.
- Occasional travel may be required.
Compensation
Estimated Starting Salary Range: $113,428.57 – $155,964.28. Compensation varies based on factors such as skills, experience, education, and certifications. The range may be adjusted for geographic differential.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision plans
- 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%
- Life insurance
- 3 weeks paid time off
- Tuition reimbursement
- Annual incentive pay based on performance
Security Clearance
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. citizenship is required for an active security clearance.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Employment decisions are made based on merit without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other characteristics protected by law.