QA/QC Manager (Cleared Federal Projects) – Colorado Springs, CO
Are you an experienced QA/QC professional with a strong background in managing quality for cleared federal projects? We are seeking a QA/QC Manager to oversee and enforce quality standards on high-stakes government contracts in Colorado Springs, CO. This role offers a unique opportunity to ensure compliance, maintain rigorous quality protocols, and contribute to mission-critical projects that demand the highest level of precision and security clearance.
Drive Excellence and Compliance in Federal Contracting
Join a respected organization working on cleared federal projects, where your expertise will directly impact project success and operational integrity. The ideal candidate will bring proven leadership in quality assurance and control, deep knowledge of federal regulations and standards, and a commitment to continuous improvement. If you excel at building robust QA/QC systems and leading cross-functional teams to meet stringent requirements, this position will put your skills to strategic use in a challenging and rewarding environment.
Key Responsibilities of the QA/QC Manager – Cleared Federal Projects
Quality Management & Assurance: Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of comprehensive Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) programs tailored to cleared federal contracts. Ensure all products, services, and processes meet stringent quality standards and contractual requirements.
Regulatory & Contract Compliance: Oversee adherence to all applicable federal regulations, standards, and contract specifications including DoD, FAA, or other relevant agencies. Ensure full compliance with security clearance protocols and quality requirements unique to federal projects.
Inspection & Testing Oversight: Manage and supervise all inspection, testing, and verification activities throughout the project lifecycle. Develop detailed quality plans, inspection criteria, and test procedures to identify defects early and ensure corrective actions are effectively implemented.
Team Leadership & Development: Lead, mentor, and train QA/QC personnel to build a high-performing, knowledgeable quality team. Foster a culture of accountability, attention to detail, and continuous improvement within the QA/QC department.
Risk Management & Corrective Actions: Identify potential quality risks and implement robust mitigation strategies. Lead root cause analysis for non-conformances and coordinate corrective and preventive actions to prevent recurrence.
Documentation & Reporting: Maintain accurate and comprehensive quality records, reports, and documentation to support audits, reviews, and government inspections. Provide timely, data-driven quality status updates to senior management and project stakeholders.
Supplier & Subcontractor Quality Control: Collaborate with procurement and supply chain teams to establish quality requirements for suppliers and subcontractors. Conduct audits and assessments to ensure external partners meet contract and quality expectations.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with project management, engineering, production, and security teams to integrate quality practices seamlessly into all phases of project execution. Facilitate clear communication and issue resolution related to quality concerns.
Continuous Improvement Initiatives: Drive process improvements by analyzing quality data, identifying trends, and implementing best practices. Champion Lean, Six Sigma, or other quality methodologies to enhance efficiency and product excellence.
What the Client is Looking for in You
As the QA/QC Manager for cleared federal projects, the client seeks a highly skilled quality leader with a proven track record of ensuring strict compliance and maintaining exceptional quality standards in secure, government-regulated environments. You should be a detail-oriented, proactive professional who thrives in complex projects requiring precision, security clearance, and rigorous quality oversight.
Proven Expertise in Quality Assurance and Control
The client is looking for a candidate with extensive experience managing QA/QC programs specifically within federal or cleared projects. You should have a strong background in developing and implementing quality management systems, performing inspections, and ensuring full adherence to federal regulations and contract requirements. Experience with DoD or other federal agencies’ standards is highly valued.
Strong Leadership and Team Development Skills
You will be expected to lead, mentor, and motivate a team of QA/QC professionals, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate has demonstrated success in building and sustaining high-performing teams that consistently meet quality goals under demanding conditions.
In-Depth Knowledge of Regulatory Compliance and Security Protocols
Your ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes and maintain strict security clearances is essential. The client values candidates who understand the nuances of federal contracting quality requirements and can manage compliance across all project phases without compromising confidentiality or security standards.
Analytical and Problem-Solving Mindset
The role demands sharp analytical skills to identify quality risks, conduct root cause analysis, and implement corrective and preventive actions effectively. You should be comfortable using data-driven approaches and quality methodologies such as Lean or Six Sigma to drive continuous improvement.
Effective Communication and Collaboration
You must be adept at communicating quality-related issues clearly and collaborating cross-functionally with engineering, production, security, and project management teams. The client values professionals who can present complex quality data in a way that supports decision-making at all organizational levels.
Commitment to Operational Excellence and Continuous Improvement
Finally, the client seeks a QA/QC Manager who prioritizes operational efficiency while maintaining uncompromising quality standards. Your leadership will ensure that projects are delivered on time, within scope, and with zero tolerance for quality lapses, driving both compliance and customer satisfaction.
FAQs About the Role – QA/QC Manager (Cleared Federal Projects)
1. What are the primary responsibilities of the QA/QC Manager in this role?
As the QA/QC Manager, you will lead quality assurance and control efforts for cleared federal projects. Your key duties include developing and enforcing quality standards, managing inspections and testing, ensuring compliance with federal regulations, leading the QA/QC team, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. You will be responsible for maintaining the highest levels of quality and security throughout the project lifecycle.
2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?
The ideal candidate should have extensive experience in QA/QC management within federal or cleared project environments. A strong understanding of federal regulations, security clearance requirements, and quality management systems is essential. Experience with DoD or similar federal contracts, leadership capabilities, and knowledge of quality methodologies such as Lean or Six Sigma are highly desirable.
3. What leadership qualities are essential for this role?
We are looking for a decisive and detail-oriented leader who can inspire and mentor a quality-focused team. Strong communication skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement are critical. You should be able to manage complex projects while maintaining rigorous compliance and quality standards.
4. What challenges can I expect in this position?
This role involves navigating complex regulatory requirements and stringent security protocols while ensuring flawless quality execution. Challenges may include managing multiple priorities across teams, identifying and mitigating quality risks, and maintaining compliance under strict federal oversight. You must be adaptable and proactive in addressing quality issues in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.
5. How does this role impact the success of federal projects?
Your leadership in QA/QC directly influences project integrity, safety, and compliance. By enforcing high-quality standards and effective risk management, you help ensure that projects meet or exceed contract requirements, reduce rework and delays, and uphold the government’s expectations for cleared projects.
6. What is the work environment and company culture like?
You will join a mission-driven organization committed to excellence, security, and teamwork. The culture values integrity, precision, and collaboration, with a focus on continuous improvement and professional growth. Employees enjoy a supportive environment that encourages innovation and recognizes high performance.
What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?
As a QA/QC Manager overseeing cleared federal projects in Colorado Springs, CO, you can expect a competitive compensation package designed to attract and retain experienced professionals with specialized skills in federal quality assurance and compliance. The remuneration typically includes the following components:
1. Base Salary
The base salary for a QA/QC Manager in federal contracting varies depending on the complexity of projects, the security clearance level required, and the size of the employer. For cleared federal projects in Colorado Springs, the annual base salary generally ranges from $90,000 to $140,000, with the potential for higher salaries based on experience, certifications, and leadership responsibilities.
2. Performance-Based Incentives
Many organizations incorporate performance bonuses linked to the successful achievement of quality goals, compliance milestones, and project deadlines. These incentives can range from 5% to 20% of the base salary and are designed to reward excellence in quality management and team leadership.
3. Security Clearance Premium
Given the sensitivity of cleared federal projects, many employers offer additional compensation or premium pay for maintaining active security clearances. This premium recognizes the added responsibility and trust required for working on classified or government-regulated contracts.
4. Benefits & Retirement Plans
Comprehensive benefits are a key part of the compensation package and typically include:
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Life and disability insurance
401(k) or pension plans with employer contributions
Paid time off and federal holidays
Employee assistance programs
5. Professional Development Support
Employers often provide support for ongoing training, certifications (such as ASQ CQE or CQM), and attendance at industry conferences. This professional development investment helps you stay current with evolving federal standards and quality methodologies.
6. Relocation Assistance
For candidates moving to Colorado Springs for this role, some companies offer relocation packages covering moving expenses, temporary housing, or travel reimbursements. These packages vary by employer but can be a valuable part of the overall remuneration.
Total Compensation Potential
When combining base salary, performance bonuses, clearance premiums, and benefits, total compensation for a QA/QC Manager on cleared federal projects in Colorado Springs can range from $100,000 to $170,000 or more annually. This package reflects the specialized expertise and critical responsibilities required to maintain quality and compliance on sensitive government contracts.
How to Apply
If you are an experienced quality assurance and control professional with expertise in managing cleared federal projects, we encourage you to apply for the QA/QC Manager position in Colorado Springs, CO. This is a significant opportunity to lead quality programs on mission-critical federal contracts and ensure compliance with stringent regulatory and security standards.
To apply, please submit your updated resume along with a cover letter highlighting your experience in federal quality management, regulatory compliance, security clearance handling, team leadership, and continuous improvement initiatives. Emphasize your success in driving quality excellence, mitigating risks, and leading QA/QC teams within government or cleared project environments.
This role offers a rewarding career path where your leadership will have a direct impact on federal project success, operational integrity, and contract compliance. Apply today to advance your career as a QA/QC Manager overseeing cleared federal projects in Colorado Springs, CO!
For additional information or to explore similar career opportunities, please visit our Federal Construction Cleared Talent Recruiters page.
Tags: QA/QC Manager | Quality Assurance | Quality Control | Cleared Federal Projects | Government Contracting | Regulatory Compliance | Security Clearance | Team Leadership | Continuous Improvement | Colorado Springs Jobs
