Quality Engineer

Socket.dev; Oxnard (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

401(k) Savings Plan

Company-Sponsored Life Insurance

Short-term and Long-term Disability

Paid Holidays

Paid Vacation and Sick Leave

Job summary

Advanced Structural Technologies (AST) in Oxnard, CA, seeks a Quality Engineer to ensure manufactured components meet specs and customer expectations. You will perform inspections, analyze data, and drive Continuous Improvement across the shop, forge, and spin departments.

The role emphasizes RCCA, MRB, and QMS compliance, with experience in laser scanning and PolyWorks highly desirable. Collaborative cross-functional teamwork and a focus on reducing scrap are core to the position.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality Management, or related field required.
• 3+ years of experience in Quality Engineering in aerospace/regulated manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of drawings, GD&T, and inspection methodologies.
• Experience with precision measurement tools and PolyWorks preferred.
• Proficiency in root cause analysis (8D, 5 Whys) and corrective actions.
• Familiarity with AS9100/ISO 9001 and quality systems.

Responsibilities

• Inspect components with precision instruments and laser scanners.
• Interpret drawings, GD&T, and blueprints to validate conformance.
• Lead 3D inspections and RCCA processes to prevent recurrence.
• Support MRB disposition and QMS compliance.
• Develop inspection plans and lead First Article Inspections per AS9102.
• Drive CI to reduce scrap and improve first-pass yield.
• Track KPIs and report QMS performance to leadership.

Skills

GD&T understanding

Root cause analysis

Problem solving

Documentation

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/Quality Management

Tools

PolyWorks

CMMs

Laser scanners

Job description

About Us

Advanced Structural Technologies (AST) is a leading manufacturer specializing in forged, flow-formed, and machined products for the aerospace, defense, and automotive industries. With over 25 years of experience, AST has built a strong reputation for precision engineering, innovation, and high-quality manufacturing.

Located in Oxnard, California, AST operates out of a cutting-edge facility spanning over 250,000 sq. ft., including our newest expansion completed in 2024. AST employs approximately 165 skilled professionals across multi-shift operations, ensuring efficiency, precision, and timely delivery for mission-critical industries.

Position Overview

We are looking for a Quality Engineer to join our rapidly growing team. This position will be responsible for ensuring that manufactured components meet engineering specifications and customer expectations through effective inspection, problem-solving, and continuous improvement initiatives. The quality engineer will collaborate closely with project engineers, production supervisors, and cross-functional teams to support root cause analysis, corrective action, and quality system compliance. Experience with laser scanning and dimensional analysis software such as PolyWorks is highly desirable.

Key Responsibilities

• Inspect and evaluate manufactured components using precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and laser scanners
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T to validate product accuracy and conformance
• Perform 3D inspections and dimensional analysis using laser scanning technology and software such as PolyWorks
• Support production teams in the machine shop, forge, and spin departments to ensure parts remain within tolerance throughout the manufacturing process
• Work closely with project engineers and production supervision to monitor quality standards and improve process reliability
• Lead the Material Review Board (MRB) to disposition non-conforming product. Drive the Root Cause and Corrective Action (RCCA) process using methodologies like 8D and 5 Whys to prevent recurrence.
• Support compliance with ISO standards and QMS requirements, contributing to certification and regulatory audits
• Develop comprehensive inspection plans, work instructions, and criteria for receiving, in-process and final inspection. Lead First Article Inspections in accordance with AS9102.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives aimed at reducing scrap, improving first-pass yield, and enhancing process control
• Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for quality. Analyze data to identify trends, report on QMS performance to leadership, and drive strategic improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality Management, or related field required,
• 3+ years of experience in Quality Engineering role within a manufacturing environment for aerospace, defense, or other regulated industries.
• Strong understanding of mechanical drawings, GD&T, and inspection methodologies
• Experience using precision measurement tools and techniques, including CMMs, laser scanners, and related software (PolyWorks experience preferred)
• Proficiency in root cause analysis methodologies (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone, etc.) and implementing effective corrective actions.
• Familiarity with industry standards (AS9100, ISO 9001) and quality management systems
• Ability to work collaboratively with multiple departments and demonstrate strong problem solving, documentation, and organizational skills
• Able to lift 70lbs parts to the granite table for inspection

Preferred Qualifications

• ASQ certification (Certified Quality Engineer - CQE, Certified Quality Auditor - CQA)
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies
• Experience in a fast-paced, high-mix, rapid development environment where speed and rigor must coexist.
• Familiarity with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) and Manufacturing Execution System (MES) software.

Why Join AST?

At AST, we believe in fostering a work environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally. We offer a competitive benefits package, including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Company-Sponsored Life Insurance
• Short-term and Long-term Disability Coverage
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation and Sick Leave

Hours & Schedule

• Schedule: Monday – Friday (8-hour shift)
• Expected Hours: 40 hours per week (plus overtime as needed)

If you are a detail-oriented quality professional with strong manufacturing experience and a passion for driving improvements, we encourage you to apply. AST is committed to maintaining a fair and respectful workplace for all employees.