Lead Quality Engineer
Location: Cypress, CA
Industry: Aerospace Manufacturing
Employment Type: Full-Time (M-F)
Salary: $80,000 to $95,000 (DOE)
We seeking a hands-on Lead Quality Engineer to oversee quality engineering activities within a fast-paced aerospace and defense manufacturing environment. This individual will lead daily quality operations, support continuous improvement initiatives, and ensure compliance with AS9100, customer, and regulatory requirements.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in aerospace or electronics manufacturing, proven leadership experience, and the ability to work cross-functionally with Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Operations teams to drive quality excellence.
Key Responsibilities
Supervise and support Quality Engineers and Inspection teams (10 employees) in daily production and quality activities
Perform and oversee incoming, in-process, and final inspections to ensure compliance with engineering drawings, specifications, and customer requirements
Review inspection reports, nonconformance reports, and quality documentation for accuracy and completeness
Ensure compliance with AS9100, ISO standards, customer specifications, and internal quality procedures
Support MRB activities and disposition of nonconforming materials
Oversee First Article Inspections (FAI) in accordance with AS9102 requirements
Utilize measuring and inspection equipment including calipers, micrometers, comparators, and other precision tools
Partner closely with Manufacturing and Engineering to improve processes, reduce defects, and support on-time delivery objectives
Participate in customer audits, internal audits, and supplier quality initiatives
Develop, maintain, and improve quality documentation including procedures, inspection plans, and work instructions
Mentor and develop quality personnel while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement
Ensure calibration systems, inspection equipment, and testing processes remain compliant and effective
Qualifications
5+ years of Quality Engineering experience within aerospace, defense, electronics, or highly regulated manufacturing environments
Strong knowledge of AS9100, ISO 9001, and quality management systems
Experience supporting electronics or precision manufacturing environments strongly preferred
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and GD&T
Experience with AS9102 First Article Inspection processes
Excellent communication and leadership skills with the ability to interface directly with customers and internal stakeholders
Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or CQE certifications are a plus
Preferred Experience
Aerospace and defense industry experience
Prior supervisory or team leadership experience preferred
IPC standards familiarity
Proficient in root cause analysis, CAPA, SPC, and continuous improvement methodologies
Experience supporting customer audits and regulatory compliance initiatives
Background working within ITAR-regulated environments
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