Quality Engineer - 100% ONSITE
Position Overview
We are 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.
This role supports the build assembly and system integration of Delta Spaceship.
Assure processes adhere to quality standards.
Perform root cause and corrective action for nonconformances.
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.
Collaborate with manufacturing teams to implement in‑process inspection criteria, test plans, and quality control checkpoints.
Champion a culture of safety, precision, and accountability throughout all operations.
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.
Review manufacturing work instructions to ensure compliance to processes and specifications.
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.
8+ years manufacturing quality engineering experience in aerospace, with significant assembly experience in spacecraft and/or aircraft.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documents.
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.
Working knowledge of configuration management systems and digital manufacturing tools.
Supplier quality experience in complex aerospace supply chains.
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: $60/Hr.
Per Diem: Yes
Overtime: Possible
Duration: 2 Months - Possibly Longer
Start Date: ASAP
Input Date: 09/04/2026
Attention: Debbie Aubert
Address: P O BOX 2278
City, State: SEAL BEACH, CA 90740
Phone: 714/823-3000
Email: Debbieaubert@thestructurescompany.com
Website: www.thestructurescompany.com
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