Quality Engineer/QMS background

Advantage Technical
$105,000.00-$105,000.00
United States, Massachusetts, Sturbridge
Dec 03, 2025
Quality Engineer - Defense Manufacturing Employment Type: Full-Time, Onsite Security Clearance: Not required Role Summary We are seeking a seasoned Quality Engineer who can take ownership of building and maturing the Quality Management System (QMS) for our manufacturing operations. We're looking for someone who has worked within a QMS buildout-ideally participating in its development-and who understands both the strategic and hands-on elements of quality engineering. This position blends system development, process creation, and metrology/calibration oversight. You'll be laying the groundwork during our early-stage operational ramp-up, with limited production in the first year. As the operation grows, so will this role-positioning the right candidate for future leadership. What You'll Do Lead QMS Development: Architect and roll out a compliant Quality Management System aligned with AS9100, ISO 9001, and defense-industry requirements. Establish Quality Processes: Build core quality workflows covering inspection, calibration, material control, nonconformance handling, CAPA, and supplier quality. Create Quality Documentation: Develop required quality planning tools such as control plans, PFMEAs, process maps, inspection/test standards, and program-specific Quality Plans. Manage System Infrastructure: Define audit plans, maintain documentation control, set quality metrics, and ensure readiness for external audits and customer evaluations. Supplier Quality Oversight: Evaluate, qualify, and monitor suppliers and subcontractors to ensure adherence to optical, electronic, and defense manufacturing standards. Drive Continuous Improvement: Lead RCA and corrective/preventive actions, statistical analysis, and yield improvement initiatives. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Program teams to embed quality requirements throughout product lifecycle stages. Ensure Compliance: Support internal and external audits and maintain compliance with ITAR, DFARS, MIL-STDs, and other applicable regulations. What You Bring Required Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality, or a related technical discipline 7+ years of Quality Engineering experience in defense or aerospace manufacturing Hands-on experience developing or implementing a QMS from the ground up Strong working knowledge of AS9100, ISO 9001, ITAR, MIL-STDs, and defense compliance Solid foundation in metrology, calibration, SPC, FMEA, and root cause tools Experience working with electro-optical, precision assembly, or similar high-tolerance environments Proficiency with common quality and statistical software tools (e.g., Minitab, QMS/ERP systems) Preferred ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) or equivalent certification Background in night vision, optical systems, infrared sensors, or related technologies Experience supporting quality systems for DoD programs or scaling defense production environments Core Strengths Systems thinker who can also execute tactically Strong communicator who works well across engineering, operations, and leadership teams Highly organized, detail-focused, and data-driven Ability to balance compliance demands with production realities and improvement initiatives After you have applied, download our Staffmark Group WorkNOW App to receive real-time job offers and apply for additional opportunities. You can download it from the App Store or get it on Google Play. About Us Advantage Technical connects top- talent in technology, engineering, and technical fields with forward-looking companies. Advantage Technical is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Advantage Technical offers reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities; contact your local branch for inquiries. Advantage Technical is an E-Verify employer. See our Privacy Notice for Candidates and Employees/Contractors at https://smgroupna.com/privacy-notice-for-candidates-and-employees-contractors. By applying, you consent to receive AI-generated and non-AI-generated calls, texts, or emails from Staffmark Group, its affiliates, and partners. Frequency varies and message/data rates may apply. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for help.