SR MANUFACTURING QUALITY ENGINEER
Seeking a Senior Level Manufacturing Quality Engineer to provide both hands-on shop floor support and desk-based quality engineering leadership for spacecraft assembly and manufacturing operations. This role will be approximately 50% on the production floor working directly with technicians, engineers, and leadership, and 50% in an engineering capacity performing data analysis, documentation reviews, and root cause investigations.
The ideal candidate is a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in composite and metallic structures with extensive aerospace manufacturing experience. They will have proven capability in Non-Conformance (NCR) dispositioning, Root Cause & Corrective Action (RCCA) leadership, First Article Inspections (FAIs), Manufacturing Work Instructions (MWIs), drawing reviews, and expert-level GD&T application. This role is critical to ensuring zero-defect manufacturing and supporting the build of next-generation spacecraft.
Key Responsibilities
Serve as the manufacturing quality SME for composite and metallic part fabrication, assembly, and integration of spacecraft and/or aircraft.
Split time 50:50 between shop floor and desk-based work:
On the floor: Engage daily with assembly and manufacturing teams to resolve quality issues, advise on engineering requirements, and drive real-time solutions.
At the desk: Lead technical reviews, analyze quality data, prepare reports, and drive systemic improvements.
Lead and manage the NCR process, including defect evaluation, engineering collaboration, and accurate dispositioning (use-as-is, rework, repair, scrap).
Facilitate and lead RCCA investigations, implementing effective corrective and preventive actions.
Lead and participate in CAPAs and Change Approval Boards (CABs) to ensure sustained improvements.
Conduct and oversee FAIs (AS9102) and verify compliance with all requirements.
Review and approve MWIs, inspection plans, and tooling documentation from a quality perspective.
Perform detailed engineering drawing reviews for manufacturability, tolerance stack-ups, and GD&T accuracy.
Apply expert-level GD&T to validate design intent and dimensional requirements.
Collaborate with design engineering to ensure manufacturability and production readiness.
Promote a proactive quality culture focused on prevention, not detection.
Qualifications
Required:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field.
10+ years manufacturing quality engineering experience in aerospace, with significant assembly experience in spacecraft and/or aircraft.
SME-level expertise in composite fabrication and metallic manufacturing processes.
Proven experience with FAIs (AS9102), drawing reviews, and MWI development/approval.
Strong working knowledge and application of GD&T (ASME Y14.5).
Extensive experience in NCR dispositioning and MRB decision-making.
Leadership in RCCA, CAPA, and CAB processes.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to balance shop floor engagement with engineering analysis.
Preferred:
Spacecraft manufacturing or launch vehicle integration experience.
Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt certification.
Hands-on experience with CMMs and metrology systems.
Active or recent security clearance.
Key Competencies
Balanced Floor & Desk Presence
Composite & Metallic Process Expertise
Root Cause & Corrective Action Leadership
FAI, MWI, and Drawing Review Proficiency
GD&T & Dimensional Control Mastery
Cross-Functional Collaboration
High Attention to Detail & Quality Standards
Job Location: MESA, AZ
Rate: 62+
Per Diem: YES
Overtime: YES
Duration: 12 MONTHS+
Start Date: ASAP
Input Date: 08/19/2025
Last Updated: 08/19/2025
Attention: Kimberly Wade
Address: P O BOX 2278
City, State: SEAL BEACH, CA 90740
Phone: 714/823-3000
Email: kimberly.wade@thestructurescompany.com
Website: www.thestructurescompany.com
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