Senior NPI Quality Engineer

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior New Product Introduction (NPI) Quality Engineer to join our growing UAV systems organization. This role is critical to ensuring the highest standards of quality, manufacturability, and reliability across our platforms; from early design maturation through production launch and high-rate manufacturing. The Senior NPI Quality Engineer partners cross‑functionally with Engineering, Supply Chain, and Manufacturing throughout new product introduction to define inspection standards, drive early root cause and corrective action, and mature processes that enable high first‑pass yield and prevent escapes as programs transition into production.

The ideal candidate has strong aerospace quality experience, disciplined problem‑solving skills, and a proven ability to deliver results in complex, fast‑changing environments.

• Lead quality activities for NPI programs, collaborating with Design, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain to integrate quality requirements early in product development.
• Establish comprehensive inspection criteria, control plans, and measurement systems in accordance with AS9100 and customer expectations.
• Perform data‑driven analysis of process performance, first‑pass yield, and defect trends; develop and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Facilitate structured problem solving (8D, DMAIC, Fishbone, 5 Why, FMEA) to identify root causes and implement robust corrective actions with measurable results.
• Partner with Supplier Quality Engineers to ensure quality expectations, inspection plans, and production controls are established and effective.
• Support design reviews, process reviews, and readiness gates with actionable quality metrics and risk assessments.
• Drive continuous improvement of quality processes and tools; strengthen organizational capability through mentorship and knowledge sharing.
• Ensure all quality documentation maintains compliance with internal procedures, customer requirements, and regulatory standards.
• Provide expert guidance on nonconformance disposition, NCR escalation, and callback prevention strategies.
• Lead and support root cause analysis, corrective and preventive actions (RCCA/CAPA), and Material Review Board (MRB) activities for both internal processes and supplier‑related issues.
• Partner with engineering and manufacturing to proactively address quality issues and reduce variability.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of the Quality Management System (QMS) in alignment with AS9100 and ISO 9001 requirements.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Industrial, or related technical discipline).
• 7+ years of progressive quality engineering experience in aerospace, defense, or high‑technology manufacturing environments.
• Strong proficiency with structured problem solving and quality tools (APQP/PPAP, SPC, Gage R&R, control plans, process audits).
• Experience supporting NPI programs from concept through production with measurable quality impact.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to influence cross‑functional teams and drive accountability.
• Demonstrated expertise in interpreting engineering drawings (GD&T), specifications, Statements of Work (SOWs), and quality clauses.
• Strong knowledge of AS9100/ISO 9001 Quality Management System requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to lead RCCA activities and drive closure on quality issues.

• Experience working with UAVs, aircraft structures, avionics, or complex defense systems.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, high‑growth environment with evolving technical and program requirements.
• CQE (Certified Quality Engineer)
• Six Sigma Green/Black Belt

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods in office and manufacturing environments.
• Capability to lift up to 25 lbs. occasionally (inspection tools, parts, or test equipment).
• Visual acuity to read drawings, inspect hardware, and identify defects.
• Manual dexterity to handle small components and operate inspection instruments.

This position will require…