We are seeking an experienced Quality Manager to lead the quality function within a metals manufacturing business serving the aerospace and defense sectors. This role is responsible for maintaining and advancing a robust Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring compliance with industry and customer requirements, and driving continuous improvement across manufacturing and inspection processes.
You will lead a team of 5 direct reports within the quality department, with responsibility spanning auditing, QMS implementation, supplier quality, and regulatory compliance, with the mandate to grow this team, attracting industry talent.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of 5 quality professionals (inspectors, auditors, and quality engineers)
- Own and continuously improve the company Quality Management System (QMS)
- Ensure compliance with aerospace and defense standards including AS9100 and ISO 9001
- Plan, coordinate, and execute internal and external quality audits
- Manage customer, regulatory, and third-party audits with minimal findings
- Drive corrective and preventive action (CAPA) processes and root cause analysis
- Oversee inspection and testing protocols across machining, fabrication, and finishing operations
- Partner with engineering and production teams to improve process capability and reduce defects
- Manage supplier quality performance and escalation processes
- Ensure documentation control and traceability requirements are fully maintained
- Support new product introduction (NPI) from a quality and compliance standpoint
- Promote a culture of continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, and zero-defect mindset
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 5+ years of experience in a quality leadership role within manufacturing
- Strong background in aerospace, defense, or high-precision metals manufacturing
- Proven experience managing and developing teams
- Deep knowledge of AS9100 and ISO 9001 standards
- Hands-on experience with internal/external auditing and audit readiness
- Strong understanding of GD&T, inspection methods, and manufacturing processes (CNC machining preferred)
- Experience leading root cause analysis and corrective action systems
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Certified Quality Manager (CQM) or Lead Auditor certification
- Experience with ERP/QMS systems
- Familiarity with aerospace customer requirements and regulatory expectations (e.g., FAA, DoD contractors)