| Location | Knoxville, Tennessee |
Role Overview
The Senior Quality Engineer is responsible for supporting and independently executing quality engineering activities within aerospace CNC machining operations to ensure product conformity to engineering, customer, and regulatory requirements. This role applies strong knowledge of GD&T, inspection methods, SPC, and AS9100 quality systems to support First Article Inspections, in-process quality control, and continuous improvement initiatives. The position works closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, and Supply Chain teams to resolve quality issues, improve process capability, and ensure consistent compliance in a high-precision production environment.
What You’ll Do...
Perform and lead dimensional inspection activities using manual and automated metrology tools including calipers, micrometers, height gauges, indicators, and comparators
Support and independently execute First Article Inspections (FAIs) in accordance with AS9102 requirements
Interpret complex engineering drawings and apply GD&T principles to verify product conformance
Develop and maintain inspection plans, control plans, and work instructions for in-process and final inspection
Support and perform CMM programming and inspection execution (PC-DMIS or similar)
Develop and implement SPC charts, monitor process capability, and support Cp/Cpk analysis
Analyze inspection and production data to identify trends, variations, and opportunities for process improvement
Lead or support root cause and corrective action (RCCA) efforts using structured problem-solving methods (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone)
Identify, document, and disposition nonconforming material using established quality systems (NCR/CAPA processes)
Collaborate with Manufacturing and Engineering teams to resolve production and machining quality issues
Ensure accuracy and completeness of Quality Management System (QMS) documentation including calibration records, inspection data, and audit materials
Support internal and external audits (AS9100, customer audits) and ensure audit readiness
Assist in developing measurement methods and inspection strategies for new and existing products
Provide training and guidance to junior Quality staff and production personnel on inspection methods and GD&T application
Utilize Microsoft Office and quality systems (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, ERP/QMS tools) for reporting and documentation
Support continuous improvement initiatives to reduce scrap, rework, and process variation
Follow all Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) policies, procedures, PPE requirements, and hazard reporting expectations
Perform other duties as assigned
You have...
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)
OR Master’s degree with 3+ years of experience
Experience
5+ years of experience in quality engineering, inspection, or manufacturing quality roles
Experience in aerospace, defense, or precision machining environments strongly preferred
Hands-on experience in AS9100 or ISO 9001 certified manufacturing environments
Experience performing and/or supporting First Article Inspections (FAI) per AS9102
Experience with CMM operation and basic programming (PC-DMIS or similar)
Experience with SPC implementation, control charts, and basic statistical process analysis
Skills & Competencies
Strong understanding of GD&T (ASME Y14.5) and ability to apply it in inspection and manufacturing environments
Proficiency using dimensional inspection tools and metrology equipment
Working knowledge of CMM programming, inspection execution, and CAD-based inspection concepts
Strong problem-solving skills using RCCA tools (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone)
Ability to analyze quality data and identify trends, variation, and improvement opportunities
Solid understanding of AS9100 quality systems, audit requirements, and manufacturing compliance
Strong communication skills with ability to collaborate across Engineering, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain
Ability to train and support junior team members on inspection and quality processes
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint; familiarity with ERP/QMS systems preferred
Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Demonstrated initiative in driving process improvement and reducing quality escapes
The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance
Nice to have...
Advanced CMM programming experience (PC-DMIS, Calypso, or equivalent)
Experience in additive manufacturing or hybrid machining environments
Experience supporting AS9100 audits or customer quality audits
Familiarity with MSA (Gauge R&R, capability studies)
Experience with supplier quality or external vendor coordination
Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma Green Belt certification
Experience developing inspection strategies for new product introduction (NPI)
Strong “shop floor presence” and hands-on problem-solving mindset
If this sounds like you, please submit an application with your resume. This could be the opportunity you are looking for to expand your skills, contribute to a winning team, and work with talented people who love what they do and take pride in our mission.
Beehive Industries offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes group Medical, Dental, Life, and Short and Long-Term disability coverage from day one. We also offer a generous 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with a Company match. Every role at Beehive Industries is bonus eligible and will also receive equity in the company.
Beehive Industries is committed to full compliance with applicable anti-discrimination laws. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We strive to create an inclusive work environment and will not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.