Quality Manager

Description

Hands-on quality leader responsible for managing and continuously improving PPSI's AS9100D-certified quality management system. This role oversees the quality team, drives compliance with aerospace and defense industry standards, and uses data analysis to support operational excellence across all manufacturing operations. The ideal candidate brings deep familiarity with IPC workmanship standards, ISO/AS9100 requirements, and electronics testing methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Maintain, improve, and enforce PPSI's AS9100D quality management system, ensuring compliance across all manufacturing operations including PCB assembly, cable and harness assembly, and systems integration.
• Lead internal and external audits (AS9100, customer, and regulatory) and manage all audit findings through to closure.
• Own the corrective and preventive action (CAPA) process, including root cause analysis, 8D investigations, and effectiveness verification.
• Manage incoming inspection, in-process quality control, and final inspection processes to IPC-A-610, IPC/WHMA-A-620, J-STD-001, and other applicable workmanship standards.
• Oversee and support testing operations, including functional test, environmental stress screening, and other test protocols as required by customer specifications.
• Analyze quality metrics, trends, and KPIs, and deliver data-driven recommendations to senior leadership on a quarterly basis.
• Manage, mentor, and develop quality team members, building a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, production, procurement, and program management to resolve quality issues and prevent recurrence.
• Interface directly with customers, suppliers, and external auditors on quality matters, corrective actions, and process improvements.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives leveraging Lean, Six Sigma, and other structured problem-solving methodologies.
• Ensure compliance with ITAR and other regulatory requirements applicable to defense and aerospace manufacturing.
• Stay current on revisions to IPC standards, AS9100 requirements, and emerging industry best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, quality, or a related technical field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 5+ years of quality management experience in electronics manufacturing, with demonstrated knowledge of PCB assembly processes, components, and soldering techniques.
• Strong working knowledge of IPC-A-610, IPC/WHMA-A-620, and J-STD-001 standards. IPC Certified IPC Trainer (CIT) or IPC Specialist certifications are a plus.
• Direct experience managing an AS9100D (or equivalent aerospace) quality management system, including internal audit programs and registrar audits.
• Familiarity with electronics testing methods such as in-circuit test, functional test, flying probe, or environmental screening.
• Proficiency with CAPA, 8D, root cause analysis, and other structured problem-solving tools.
• Experience with Lean Six Sigma methodologies. Green Belt or Black Belt certification preferred.
• Strong leadership and coaching skills with a track record of developing quality teams.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with customers, suppliers, auditors, and internal stakeholders at all levels.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical skills and comfort working with quality data and reporting tools.
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and standard business software (Google Workspace and/or Microsoft Office).
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and adapt to shifting priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in an ITAR-registered manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with CMMC or similar cybersecurity/compliance frameworks.
• Background supporting defense or space programs with flowdown requirements.