Lead Product Quality Engineer, Aerospace & Defense

Job Purpose

VulcanForms is hiring a Lead Product Quality Engineer, Aerospace & Defense to own quality strategy and execution for customer programs within our aerospace & defense business unit. You will set the technical standard for quality systems and process control within our high-tech digital production environment. This role goes beyond individual task execution to shape how quality is built into the program from the outset, mentor and develop other quality engineers supporting the program, and represent quality engineering in cross-functional product development & ongoing production initiatives.  

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary quality engineering lead for designated product lines, managing product lifecycle quality from initial validation through steady-state production. 
• Lead and execute comprehensive process validations and verification activities (IQ/OQ/PQ) for new product introductions (NPI) and existing line expansions. 
• Independently investigate complex product non-conformances (NCRs), lead material review boards (MRBs), and drive the execution of Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPAs) to eliminate systemic failure modes. 
• Own the deployment and monitoring of SPC frameworks, defining critical-to-quality (CTQ) metrics and optimizing metrology and testing protocols across the factory floor. 
• Author, review, and approve critical quality system documentation (including DHFs, DMRs, and DHRs) to maintain continuous audit readiness. 
• Partner with Manufacturing, Process, and Machine Engineering teams during normal business hours to implement proactive quality controls and design-for-manufacturability initiatives. 
• Build a high, performing team by providing technical guidance, coaching, and peer reviews for junior quality engineers and inspection technicians 

Qualifications

• 8+ years of progressive quality engineering experience within a highly regulated advanced manufacturing environment, with strong preference for aerospace & defense experience. 
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical field preferred. 
• Proven mastery of First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs), process capability studies , and formal risk management tools (DFMEA/PFMEA). 
• Hands-on experience working under AS9100 or ISO 13485 quality management systems. 
• Familiarity with metal alloys, metallurgy, precision machining, or metal additive manufacturing processes. 
• ASQ certifications (CQE, CRE) or Six Sigma Green/Black Belt a plus 

VulcanForms offers a competitive salary and equity package. Actual compensation is based on factors such as the candidate's skills, qualifications, and experience. In addition, VulcanForms provides comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; generous paid time off; and a 401(k) plan with company match. 

The annual base salary range for this position is $117,400 to $161,500.