The Quality Manager – Aerospace Mechanical Assembly is responsible for ensuring that mechanical assemblies and structural components meet rigorous aerospace quality standards, customer requirements, and regulatory compliance. This leadership role manages all aspects of quality assurance (QA), quality control (QC), and continuous improvement across mechanical assembly operations. The manager oversees inspection teams, supplier quality, nonconformance management, and internal audits, playing a key role in driving a culture of quality, compliance, and operational excellence throughout the production lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead the development, implementation, and enforcement of quality policies and procedures for mechanical assembly processes
Ensure compliance with AS9100, ISO 9001, customer-specific requirements, and regulatory standards (FAA, DoD, NASA, EASA)
Manage incoming, in-process, and final inspections of mechanical components and assemblies including fasteners, structures, actuators, brackets, and enclosures
Oversee root cause analysis (RCA), corrective and preventive actions (CAPA), and nonconformance reporting (NCR/MRB)
Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain teams to resolve quality issues and improve assembly processes
Lead internal audits, supplier assessments, and quality gate reviews across programs
Monitor and report quality metrics (FPY, DPPM, escapes, audit findings), and implement continuous improvement initiatives (Lean/Six Sigma)
Manage quality inspectors, auditors, and MRB personnel including hiring, training, and performance development
Ensure quality documentation including inspection plans, traveler sign-offs, and as-built records are properly maintained
Support configuration control, change management, and traceability throughout the assembly lifecycle
Serve as customer and regulatory liaison during audits, source inspections, and product acceptance reviews
Key Focus Areas:
Quality assurance for mechanical assemblies in aerospace manufacturing
Regulatory and contractual compliance (AS9100, FAA/EASA/DoD, etc.)
Nonconformance management, root cause analysis, and corrective actions
Inspection planning, execution, and process validation
Supplier and internal quality system governance
Qualifications & Skills:
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality Engineering, or related field required
Master’s degree or Quality Management certification preferred
Certifications:
ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) or Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) preferred
Lead Auditor Certification for AS9100 or ISO 9001 highly desirable
Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt a plus
Experience:
10–15+ years of quality engineering experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within aerospace or high-reliability mechanical assembly
Proven track record in managing quality systems for structural and mechanical components (riveting, bonding, torquing, sealing, etc.)
Hands-on experience with MRB processes, inspection techniques, and supplier quality management
Familiarity with manufacturing processes such as CNC machining, precision assembly, and composite or metallic structures
Technical Skills:
Proficient in quality tools and software (e.g., Minitab, QMS platforms, SPC systems)
Understanding of GD&T, engineering drawings, FAI (AS9102), and inspection planning
Knowledge of aerospace materials, mechanical joints, tolerances, and defect categorization
Experience with digital inspection systems, CMMs, laser trackers, and visual/dimensional inspection techniques
Soft Skills:
Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence and enforce quality standards across production teams
Excellent problem-solving, communication, and conflict resolution skills
Detail-oriented and organized, with a proactive approach to quality risk management
Committed to continuous improvement and fostering a zero-defect culture