Founded in 1918, Kearfott Corporation, a global Aerospace and Defense supplier for over 100 years, is a leader in the design and manufacture of precision motion control products and inertial navigation components. Kearfott has a very long history of innovation and excellence and is the go-to brand for many of our global clients. Kearfott is trusted, respected and plays a vital role in the success of America’s aerospace and defense industries. With over a century of expertise & experience, Kearfott is dedicated to providing quality, reliability, and cutting-edge technology to customers worldwide to meet their sea, land, air, and space navigation and guidance requirements.

We are looking for talented individuals who want to be part of a world-class work force. Join Kearfott and become part of a company that is recognized for technical expertise and respected world-wide as a ‘full service’ provider.

For more information visit our website at www.kearfott.com

Senior Quality Assurance Manager

Position Summary

The Senior Quality Assurance Manager is responsible for leading and overseeing the quality engineering and assurance organization within the Guidance, Navigation & Defense (GND) Division. This role ensures that products, processes, and systems consistently meet customer, regulatory, and industry requirements. Reporting to the Vice President of Program Management and Operations, this position plays a critical leadership role in driving strategic quality initiatives, advancing continuous improvement, and strengthening a culture of quality excellence across the organization.

Key Responsibilities

Provide leadership and strategic direction for quality assurance and quality control activities supporting Guidance and Navigation equipment for aerospace and defense applications
Ensure compliance with AS9100D and all applicable regulatory and customer requirements
Lead, mentor, and develop quality engineering and inspection teams, fostering accountability and professional growth
Partner with Engineering, Operations, and Supply Chain leadership to drive systemic improvements in product quality and manufacturing processes
Champion root cause analysis and corrective/preventive action processes using structured methodologies (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone)
Lead internal and external audits, including customer and regulatory audits, ensuring successful outcomes and timely closure of findings
Drive the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the Quality Management System (QMS)
Oversee inspection and test strategies to ensure alignment with production demands and customer expectations
Establish, monitor, and report key quality performance indicators (KPIs), trends, and risks to senior leadership
Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product reliability, reduce defects, and improve operational efficiency
Drive Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) implementation and integration across programs
Ensure the integrity and compliance of quality records, documentation, and configuration control processes

Core Competencies

Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence across all levels of the organization
Strategic thinker with a results-driven mindset
Advanced problem-solving and analytical skills
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Collaborative, cross-functional leadership approach
Deep understanding of aerospace quality systems and standards (AS9100D)

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, or a related technical discipline (required)

Experience:

8–12+ years of experience in aerospace/defense quality engineering or quality management
Demonstrated leadership experience managing quality teams and driving organizational improvements
Strong background in regulated manufacturing environments
APQP implementation experience highly desired

Certifications (Preferred):

Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt
ASQ certifications (CQE, CQM, etc.) strongly preferred

Additional Requirements:

Familiarity with government and defense contracting requirements (DCMA, ITAR, etc.)
Must be a U.S. Citizen
This is an onsite position based in Pine Brook, NJ

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in New Jersey is $154,000 - $200,000 annually. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to job-related knowledge and skills, experience, and internal consistency.

Additionally, we offer a medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, a 401(k) plan with company match, tuition assistance, paid vacation and sick days, paid holidays, and a 9/80 work week with every other Friday off. Our work environment embraces our people as we enjoy monthly employee events that celebrate our workplace culture.

Equal Opportunity Employer/including Disabled/Veterans

Learn more about this Employer on their Career Site