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# Director of Quality (Aerospace Defense)


Role Overview for Director of Quality (Aerospace Defense)
JRG Partners is seeking an exceptional and visionary Director of Quality to lead the quality assurance functions for our esteemed client within the highly critical Aerospace and Defense sector. This pivotal role is perfect for a seasoned quality leader who possesses an unwavering commitment to excellence, a deep understanding of complex regulatory environments, and a proven track record of implementing world-class quality management systems. As the Director of Quality, you will be instrumental in shaping our client’s quality strategy, ensuring the integrity and reliability of cutting-edge aerospace and defense products, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across all operational facets.
You will be responsible for overseeing the entire quality lifecycle, from design and development through manufacturing, testing, and field support. This includes strategic planning, operational execution, and meticulous adherence to industry standards such as AS9100, ISO 9001, and various governmental and military specifications. The successful candidate will be a proactive leader, capable of inspiring a dedicated team of quality professionals, driving robust corrective and preventive action initiatives, and acting as the primary liaison with key customers, suppliers, and regulatory bodies.
Your leadership will directly impact the safety, performance, and mission success of critical aerospace and defense programs, making this an opportunity to contribute significantly to national security and technological advancement. If you are passionate about precision, compliance, and leading a high-performing quality organization in a challenging yet rewarding environment, we encourage you to explore this unique opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of Director of Quality (Aerospace Defense)
The Director of Quality will be entrusted with a broad range of strategic and operational responsibilities, ensuring that all products and processes meet the highest standards of quality, reliability, and regulatory compliance. Key responsibilities include:

Strategic Quality Leadership: Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive Quality Management System (QMS) in strict accordance with AS9100 standard, ISO 9001, and relevant Department of Defense (DoD) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. Drive the strategic direction of quality initiatives to align with overall business objectives and customer requirements.
Team Leadership & Development: Recruit, mentor, develop, and lead a high-performing team of quality engineers, inspectors, auditors, and technicians. Foster a collaborative and accountable work environment focused on continuous learning and professional growth.
Regulatory Compliance & Audits: Ensure full compliance with all applicable national and international quality standards, customer specifications, and regulatory requirements. Manage and lead internal, customer, and third-party audits (e.g., AS9100, DCMA, FAA), ensuring timely closure of findings and effective corrective actions.
Process Improvement & Excellence: Champion and drive continuous improvement initiatives utilizing methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and root cause analysis (RCA) to eliminate defects, reduce waste, and enhance overall operational efficiency and product quality.
Supplier Quality Management: Establish and maintain robust supplier quality management programs, including supplier qualification, performance monitoring, audits, and corrective action processes to ensure the quality of supplied materials and components.
Customer & Stakeholder Relations: Serve as the primary quality interface with customers, government agencies (e.g., DCMA, FAA), and other external stakeholders. Address customer quality concerns promptly and effectively, fostering strong, trust-based relationships.
Non-Conformance Management: Oversee the identification, documentation, investigation, and resolution of non-conformances, deviations, and customer complaints. Implement effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to prevent recurrence.
Data Analysis & Reporting: Establish and monitor key quality metrics and performance indicators (KPIs). Analyze quality data to identify trends, root causes, and areas for improvement. Prepare comprehensive quality reports for executive management and stakeholders.
New Product Introduction (NPI) Support: Collaborate closely with engineering, manufacturing, and program management teams during new product development to ensure ‘design for quality’ principles are integrated from conception through production launch.
Risk Management: Identify and assess quality risks throughout the product lifecycle and implement mitigation strategies to ensure product integrity and reliability.
Budget & Resource Management: Manage the quality department’s budget, allocate resources effectively, and make data-driven decisions regarding quality tools, technologies, and staffing.
Training & Awareness: Develop and implement quality training programs for employees at all levels to enhance quality awareness and ensure adherence to QMS procedures.

Requirements for the Director of Quality (Aerospace Defense)
To excel in this critical leadership role, candidates should possess a robust blend of academic achievement, extensive industry experience, and proven leadership capabilities. The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or Manufacturing) or a closely related technical field from an accredited institution is required. A Master’s degree (e.g., MBA, MS in Engineering Management, or Quality Management) is highly preferred.
Experience: Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in Quality Management within the Aerospace and Defense industry is essential. This must include at least 5-7 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., Director, Senior Manager, or equivalent) overseeing significant quality operations.
Technical Expertise:
Deep and demonstrable expertise in developing, implementing, and maintaining Quality Management Systems compliant with AS9100 standard (Rev D preferred) and ISO 9001.
Strong working knowledge of relevant government and military quality standards and specifications (e.g., MIL-STD, DCMA requirements, FAA regulations, ITAR/EAR compliance).
Proven experience with advanced quality tools and methodologies, including Statistical Process Control (SPC), Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Measurement System Analysis (MSA), 8D problem-solving, and Gauge R&R.
Proficiency in Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles, with a track record of driving significant process improvements. Certification as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt is highly desirable.
Understanding of various manufacturing processes common in aerospace and defense (e.g., machining, composites, additive manufacturing, assembly, welding, NDT).
Certifications: ASQ Certified Quality Manager/Organizational Excellence (CQM/OE) or Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is highly preferred.
Leadership & Management Skills:
Exceptional leadership and team-building capabilities, with a proven ability to motivate, inspire, and develop a diverse team of quality professionals.
Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex issues and implement effective solutions.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, capable of effectively presenting complex information to executive leadership, customers, and regulatory bodies.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build consensus and collaborate effectively across all levels of an organization and with external partners.
Security Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance is often required for roles within the defense sector. Existing clearance is a significant advantage.
Software Proficiency: Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, Quality Management Software (QMS), and statistical analysis software.

Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client understands the value of investing in its employees, offering a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your professional growth, personal well-being, and financial security. As a Director of Quality (Aerospace Defense), you can expect:

Competitive Compensation: A highly attractive salary package commensurate with experience and industry standards, including performance-based bonuses.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness: Robust medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family, ensuring access to quality healthcare.
Retirement Savings: A generous 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions, helping you plan for a secure financial future.
Paid Time Off: Ample vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays to support work-life balance and personal rejuvenation.
Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning, training, and certifications to advance your skills and career within the dynamic aerospace and defense sector. This may include tuition reimbursement programs.
Relocation Assistance: For qualified candidates, relocation support may be provided to facilitate a smooth transition to the Huntsville, AL area.
Life & Disability Insurance: Company-paid life insurance and short-term/long-term disability coverage for added peace of mind.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support services for personal and work-related challenges.
Impactful Work: The opportunity to contribute to critical aerospace and defense programs that have a direct impact on national security and technological innovation.
Collaborative Culture: Work within a supportive, innovative, and challenging environment alongside industry experts.

How to Apply
If you are a highly motivated and experienced quality leader with a passion for excellence in the Aerospace and Defense industry, we invite you to apply for this exceptional opportunity. This role offers the chance to make a significant impact within a leading organization committed to innovation and quality.
To apply, please submit your detailed resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and qualifications for the Director of Quality (Aerospace Defense) position. Highlight your achievements in QMS leadership, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement initiatives within the aerospace and defense sector.
Explore Executive Opportunities with JRG Partners and submit your application today. We look forward to reviewing your qualifications and discussing how your expertise can contribute to our client’s success.
JRG Partners is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.