Quality Manager

Vast is looking for a Quality Manager, reporting to the Senior Manager of Quality, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations.

• Candidates that do not meet all of the qualifications & requirements for the managerial role may be considered at a Supervisor role as well

The Quality Supervisor will oversee and coordinate all quality control and assurance activities within the production facility. This role is critical to maintaining the highest standards in product integrity, safety, and compliance across our manufacturing processes. The Quality Supervisor will lead a team of quality control inspectors, technicians, and auditors, ensuring that all products and services meet internal and external standards.

This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Long Beach location.

Responsibilities:

Supervision and Leadership:

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of quality inspectors supporting spacecraft manufacturing and integration.
• Provide training and ongoing support to the quality team on quality standards, procedures, and tools.
• Monitor team performance and provide feedback, coaching, and corrective actions when necessary.
• Ensure the team adheres to schedules and meets production and inspection targets.

Quality Control & Assurance:

• Oversee all quality inspections of incoming materials, in-process components, and finished products.
• Coordinate the implementation of quality standards, procedures, and specifications across all production stages.
• Ensure all products and processes comply with regulatory requirements (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100) and industry best practices.
• Ensure inspection readiness including equipment and staffing capacity to support production ramp.
• Support development and implementation of inspection strategies for complex hardware, including dimensional, visual, and integration inspections.

Data Analysis & Reporting:

• Compile and analyze quality data, including product defects, trends, and root causes.
• Prepare and present detailed quality reports to upper management, highlighting performance metrics and areas for improvement.
• Monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and ensure that targets for quality, efficiency, and safety are consistently met.

Process Improvement:

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives, working cross-functionally with operations, engineering, and other departments.
• Identify and implement process improvements that enhance product quality, reduce waste, and increase operational efficiency.
• Participate in root cause analysis and support problem-solving efforts for product failures or process inefficiencies.

Compliance and Documentation:

• Ensure compliance with all internal and external audits, quality certifications, and regulatory standards.
• Maintain and update quality documentation, including inspection plans, reports, and control charts.
• Support the development and maintenance of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for quality processes.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality Management, or a related technical field (or equivalent work experience).
• Minimum 3-5 years of experience in quality assurance or quality control, preferably in a manufacturing or aerospace-related industry.
• Previous experience leading or supervising a quality team is highly preferred.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate and guide a team.
• A proactive, results-driven approach to problem-solving and process improvement.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Experience implementing or scaling quality systems in a fast-paced development environment.
• Knowledge of AS9100, ISO quality systems, or aerospace regulatory frameworks.
• Experience implementing risk-based inspection strategies and key characteristic control plans.
• Familiarity with defect characterization methods for scratches, dents, surface damage, and structural imperfections.
• Familiarity with manufacturing execution systems (MES), PLM systems, or quality tracking systems for traceability and nonconformance management.

Additional Requirements:

• Willingness to work evenings and/or weekends to support critical mission milestones
• Must be able to pass background check and gain access to government facilities

Pay Range:

• Quality Supervisor: $82,000 - $130,000
• Quality Manager: $119,000 - $165,000