Quality Assurance Engineer

Strategic Management Solutions, LLC (SMSI); Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Strategic Management Solutions, LLC (SMSI) seeks a Quality Assurance Engineer in Oak Ridge, TN, responsible for managing quality aspects of materials and supplier services. This role involves implementing quality assurance processes, conducting audits, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance with quality standards and regulatory requirements. Candidates need a Bachelor's Degree in Quality Management or Engineering, a Q security clearance, and experience in quality management systems and supplier audits.

Qualifications

• Must possess or be able to obtain an active level Q security clearance.
• Proven experience in conducting supplier audits and assessments.
• Advanced understanding of quality assurance methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Support client sourcing specialists with supplier qualification processes.
• Develop and implement quality assurance protocols and conduct supplier audits.
• Maintain detailed records of quality performance.
• Work closely with suppliers to develop corrective actions and continual improvement initiatives.

Skills

Quality management systems

Statistical analysis

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma principles

Supplier audits

Problem-solving skills

Communication abilities

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Quality Management/Assurance/Engineering or Mechanical/Industrial Engineering

CSQP or CQE certification

Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing certification

Tools

Quality management software

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

SMSI provides expert management consulting, program and project management, and technical consulting services to government and private sector clients. SMSI has grown and evolved by building an outstanding reputation for client‑focused performance and for delivering results that enable clients to meet commitments and milestones.

SMSI is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Job Summary

Quality Assurance Engineers (QAE) are responsible for managing the quality aspects of materials and services provided by external suppliers while ensuring that requirements of the ACP License Applications and Quality Assurance Program are achieved. The role involves implementing quality assurance processes, conducting audits, and collaborating with suppliers to address quality issues. The Quality Assurance Engineer works closely with cross‑functional teams, including procurement, production, and engineering, to ensure that the components and materials sourced meet client quality standards and regulatory requirements. This position is vital for maintaining the integrity of the supply chain and ensuring that end products meet the high standards expected by customers and stakeholders. By leveraging technical expertise and strategic oversight, a Quality Assurance Engineer plays a key role in the supply chain management and continuous improvement processes.

Responsibilities & Duties

• Support client sourcing specialists with supplier qualification and approval processes.
• Develop, implement, and maintain quality assurance protocols and conduct supplier audits and assessments to ensure compliance with quality standards.
• Develop and implement quality control plans and programs for all externally procured components and materials.
• Maintain detailed records of quality performance, analyzing and monitoring quality data and metrics to identify trends and areas for improvement to ensure production continuity, while continually collaborating with suppliers to address and resolve any quality issues that arise.
• Demonstrate strong supplier relationship‑building skills to ensure effective communication, enhanced innovation, and improved overall operational efficiency.
• Work closely with suppliers and client cross‑functional teams to develop and implement corrective and preventive actions and continual improvement initiatives, ensuring that quality objectives are met.
• Ensure suppliers adhere to regulatory and compliance requirements, and serve as a knowledgeable resource for interpreting quality‑related federal regulations, quality standards, etc.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement solutions for quality performance gaps.Provide technical support and guidance to suppliers on quality‑related matters.
• Monitor and report on quality performance and key performance indicators.
• Write and control detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and/or work instructions for core Supplier Quality requirements and ensure that process training and compliance are effectively achieved.

Job Qualifications

• Must currently possess or be able to obtain / maintain an active level Q security clearance.
• Experience with quality management systems and standards such as ISO 9001, AS9100, and NQA‑1.
• Advanced understanding of quality assurance methodologies and practices within manufacturing.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis and quality control tools.
• Proven experience in conducting supplier audits and assessments.
• Knowledge of Lean manufacturing and Six Sigma principles.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and standards.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent organizational and time‑management skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and quality management software.

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Quality Management/Assurance/Engineering or Mechanical/Industrial Engineering or a minimum of 5 years of quality assurance experience in manufacturing environments.
• CSQP or CQE certified.
• Knowledge of NRC/DOE regulations.
• Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing certified.