Job Summary:
This includes quality engineering, inspection, NDT, company-wide quality systems / business systems as well as identifying and implementing initiatives contributing to a world class quality team. This quality leadership role interacts heavily with the local Management Team and is focused on development activities and ensuring successful completion of New Product Introduction (NPI) phase gates for successful releases to manufacturing. This position is critical to capturing and documenting voice of customer and successful launches of new programs and continuous improvement and scrutiny of the manufacturing processes.
Key Duties/Responsibilities:
- Establish, implement, and sustain quality standards for the manufacturing of advanced composite products, ensuring full compliance with the AEC Quality System, AS9100D/ISO9001, and NADCAP Composites requirements.
- Lead and manage quality engineering initiatives within the broader development organization. Oversee Managers, engineers, technicians, inspectors, and key suppliers while driving project execution, problem-solving, and issue resolution. Promote a culture of performance, process improvement, teamwork, and accountability.
- Serve as the primary quality liaison for customers driving development activities, providing authoritative guidance on quality requirements and ensuring alignment with customer expectations. Build and maintain confidence in AEC’s quality capabilities from development through production transfer.
- Direct the Development Quality Engineering team, ensuring optimal project assignments that leverage individual strengths and promote growth. Monitor project milestones, track performance, and mentor engineers in disciplined project management practices.
- Integrate Lean Manufacturing principles and statistical analysis tools to define test methods and mitigate risks in development programs. Collaborate with other Quality Directors to enhance AEC’s statistical analysis capabilities.
- Own and drive the MRB (Material Review Board) and RCCA (Root Cause and Corrective Action) processes for development and post-launch activities, applying DMAIC methodology to ensure consistent, effective problem resolution. Foster this approach across facility quality teams.
- Oversee the execution of the internal audit schedule and actively support external product, process, and system audits to ensure compliance and continuous improvement.
- Provide strategic leadership to direct reports, including performance evaluations, career development planning, training, and recognition programs that support both individual and organizational success.
- Monitor and analyze key quality performance indicators—including CAPA, scrap, rework, and customer complaints—while partnering with business leaders to implement permanent corrective actions addressing negative trends.
Knowledge
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, or Aerospace preferred); MBA or Master’s degree highly desirable.
Minimum of 10 years of experience in quality and/or manufacturing, including at least 5 years in a supervisory or management role.
Aerospace industry experience preferred.
Proficient in ISO 9001/AS9100 Quality Management Systems; experience with Lean Six Sigma (LSS) tools is a strong plus.
Skilled in structured problem-solving methodologies such as LEAN, A3, DMAIC, and 8D.
Skills
Development of fundamental product and process design requirements, including control plans.
Proficient in measurement and test methods supporting GD&T, Measurement System Analysis (MSA), and metrology techniques.
Strong statistical analysis capabilities using tools such as Minitab and Power BI, with exceptional attention to detail.
Expertise in quality system, process, product, and system auditing.
Proven ability to solve complex problems in collaborative, cross-functional environments.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Visio required).
ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) certification preferred.
Experience with ERP and PLM systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Epicor, Windchill).
Strong track record of continuously driving operational improvements to support the business strategy.
Abilities
Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to effectively supervise, mentor, and develop teams.
Willingness to engage in “hands-on” work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Strong decision-making skills with the ability to set priorities and balance competing demands.
Communication and Presentation Skills: Demonstrate exceptional written and verbal communication skills, along with strong presentation abilities to convey complex information effectively.
Capable of delivering difficult messages to customers while maintaining professionalism and trust.
Strong customer focus with meticulous attention to detail.
Demonstrated cross-functional leadership in driving complex problem-solving initiatives and ensuring through documentation practices. Ability to work 24/7 schedule and be available as business situations require.
Occasional travel required.
