Quality Engineer III

Hexcel; Kent (WA); On-site; USD 77,968 - 130,228; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings plans

Flexible spending accounts

Job summary

Hexcel is seeking a Quality Engineer III to lead quality and inspection planning at its Kent, WA facility. This role involves developing quality plans, conducting audits, and mentoring junior engineers while ensuring compliance with aerospace standards.

Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in engineering and at least 5 years of relevant experience, with expertise in quality management systems and leadership skills. Competitive salary and benefit programs are offered.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in quality engineering with leadership responsibilities.
• Expertise in compliance standards (AS9100, Nadcap) and advanced analytics.
• Strong leadership and influencing skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead quality initiatives in a dynamic aerospace environment.
• Develop quality plans and inspection criteria.
• Conduct internal and external audits and manage corrective actions.

Skills

Quality management systems

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Predictive analytics

Lean/Six Sigma

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, quality, or a related field

Master’s degree (preferred)

Job description

With our strong investment in research and development and our culture of continuous improvement, Hexcel is the industry leader in the manufacturing of advanced composite materials, including carbon fiber, woven reinforcements, resins, prepregs, honeycombs, and additive manufactured parts. We invite you to join the Hexcel team at various manufacturing sites, sales offices and R&T centers around the globe. Become a part of the “strength within.”

Quality Engineer III – Kent, WA

Are you ready to lead quality initiatives and drive operational excellence in a dynamic aerospace environment? As a Quality Engineer III, you’ll provide leadership in quality and inspection planning, change management, and Bill of Material (BOM) planning. In this role, you’ll ensure consistency, accuracy, and reliability across processes and quality controls by guiding review boards, approving specifications, analyzing corrective actions, and conducting audits.

Summary pay range: $77,968 - $130,228 annual salary.

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.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, quality, or a related field required; master’s preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in quality engineering with leadership responsibilities.
• Expertise in quality management systems, compliance standards (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.
• Advanced problem‑solving skills and innovation mindset; proficiency in Lean/Six Sigma (certification strongly preferred).
• ASQ certifications (CQE preferred) and Certified 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.

Benefits

Hexcel provides a Total Rewards package, including competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. Eligible employees may enroll in benefit programs such as health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance, and paid or unpaid time away from work.

EEO Statement

Hexcel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected class.