Quality Engineering Lead
Quality Engineering Lead
Location: Simsbury, CT
Salary: $130,000 - $145,000
Industry: Aerospace & Defense | Space Systems | High‑Reliability Manufacturing
A leading aerospace and defense manufacturer is seeking a Quality Engineering Lead to support a core value stream focused on mission‑critical products. This role blends technical hands‑on quality engineering with team leadership, owning quality performance, continuous improvement, and customer interface across programs.
This is a high‑visibility role supporting space and defense programs with direct responsibility for quality engineers, inspectors, and end‑to‑end product quality.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Development
- Lead and develop Quality Engineers and Inspectors within the value stream
- Set goals, manage performance, and drive consistent quality practices
- Allocate resources and workload to meet business priorities
- Represent Quality in value stream reviews and production meetings
Quality Performance & Continuous Improvement
- Drive safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives through structured problem solving
- Track and analyze quality metrics, trends, and systemic issues
- Ensure effectiveness of corrective actions and reduce defect rates
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing
Audit & Compliance
- Represent the business in customer, regulatory, and internal audits
- Ensure compliance with AS9100 / ISO9001 and customer requirements
- Review and approve audit responses and corrective actions
Customer & Supplier Interface
- Serve as primary quality point of contact for customers
- Interface with customer quality teams and participate in program reviews
- Support supplier audits and quality performance issues
Program & Engineering Support
- Support programs from proposal through shipment
- Participate in design reviews (PDR/CDR), FMEAs, and quality planning
- Review drawings and approve inspection plans
- Define inspection and verification strategies for product conformance
Change & Configuration Management
- Participate in change control boards
- Assess impact of design or process changes on production quality
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical discipline
- Experience in Quality Engineering within a manufacturing environment
- Knowledge of AS9100 / ISO9001 quality systems
- Strong problem solving, CAPA, and continuous improvement experience
- Experience supporting audits (internal, customer, regulatory)
- Ability to interpret customer specifications and develop quality plans
- Strong communication and cross‑functional leadership skills
Preferred
- Aerospace or defense manufacturing experience
- Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt
- Experience supporting new product development
Compensation & Benefits
- Base salary: $130,000 - $145,000
- Comprehensive benefits package including:
- Medical, Dental, Vision insurance
- 401(k) with employer contribution
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
FAQs
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