Senior Specialist, Quality Engineering

Senior Specialist, Quality Engineering

Job Location:

Ashburn, VA

Job Code: 30816

Job Title:

Senior Specialist, Quality Engineering

Job Description:

The Quality Engineer (QE) is a vital member of a cross‑functional team, responsible for ensuring the integrity and compliance of hardware and software products throughout their lifecycle. The QE interfaces with various departments, including Program Management, Supply Chain, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Test personnel, to establish and implement effective process controls aimed at risk mitigation and project success. Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to support process control implementation and risk mitigation.

Proactively monitor, analyze, report, and participate in the improvement of process and product performance. Lead failure analysis and corrective action review boards, facilitating RCCA and improvement projects using Lean and Six Sigma tools and other problem‑solving methods to drive solutions. Review and verify contractual and customer requirements, translating them into operational plans and test procedures. Participate in the verification, validation, and acceptance of product design and process changes.

Represent the organization when interfacing directly with customers throughout the program lifecycle. Assist in preparing for and leading internal, customer, and third‑party audits. Ensure the timely completion of QA deliverables, maintaining zero product quality escapes. Drive continuous improvements by developing processes that reduce defects and customer escapes. Analyze data from nonconformities, discrepancies, and audits to identify risks and opportunities for improvement.

Define and implement processes for the oversight of program activities, ensuring compliance and defect‑free products.

• Lead corrective action review boards and facilitate RCCA, utilizing Lean tools and Six Sigma principles.
• Design, develop, and implement QA standards, methods, and procedures for evaluating hardware, software, and service products.
• Verify process compliance and perform internal audits to ensure adherence to policies, procedures, and customer requirements.
• Utilize data analytics to identify trends and convey quality performance information to stakeholders.
• Provide technical problem‑solving for issues arising in projects and programs, offering clear feedback related to contractual/regulatory exposure and innovative solutions.
• Develop and implement program quality plans and procedures as needed.
• Conduct contract review and flow‑down requirements to the supply chain and other functional groups.
• Provide technical support and training to the Inspection department and generate inspection plans as needed.
• Review and approve engineering specifications such as ATPs, drawings, models, manufacturing work instructions, and ensure adequacy, quality, and compliance to specification and contractual requirements.
• Manage Zero Defect Plans (ZDP) and other continuous improvement activities and lead assigned projects.

• Bachelor’s Degree and minimum 6 years of prior relevant experience.
• Graduate Degree and a minimum of 4 years of prior related experience.

• Ability to obtain a Secret US Security Clearance.
• AS 9100/ISO 9001 quality system experience.
• Familiarity with mechanical assembly, soldering, machining, paint and/or fiberglass/composite processes.
• Advanced knowledge of APQP, SPC, Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis, RCCA problem‑solving methodologies, Lean/Six Sigma and exposure to a “Zero Defects” business operating environment.
• Working knowledge of industry specs/standards as it relates to materials and manufacturing processes (e.g., ASTM, ASE, MIL specs, etc.).
• Providing QA inputs for proposals.
• Strong understanding of quality standards such as ISO 9001, AS9100, or IATF 16949.
• Proven track record of driving significant quality improvements.
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and project management skills.
• Excellent communication, technical writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to work effectively on a team yet maintain professional Quality independence.
• Proficient with quality engineering software and tools.

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