Senior Quality Engineer

Location: United States of America – California, Santa Ana. Position Summary We are seeking a hands‑on, collaborative Senior Quality Engineer to join our team in a precision metal machining environment serving the aerospace industry. This role is deeply integrated with shop floor operations , working closely with machinists, engineers, and leadership to ensure product quality, drive process improvements, and uphold aerospace standards. The ideal candidate thrives in a team‑oriented environment and is passionate about building strong relationships to solve problems and elevate performance. Key Responsibilities Always demonstrate a strong safety focus and perform job functions with integrity. Partner with machine operators and production staff to audit processes, identify quality issues, and implement practical, sustainable solutions. Plan and conduct analysis, inspection, design reviews, testing, and integration to ensure the quality of assigned products or components. Perform quality engineering reviews of design documentation for compliance with requirements, including vendor quality manuals and internal quality records. Apply statistical process control (SPC) methods to analyze data and evaluate current processes and changes. Perform Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) in accordance with AS9145 and collaborate with engineering and production to ensure readiness. Review all purchased products or components and provide input on acceptance and future sourcing decisions. Document data obtained during all quality assurance activities in accordance with company policies and procedures. Apply problem‑solving methodologies (e.g. 8d, DMAIC) and tools (e.g. Ishikawa, 5 Whys, FTA, PFD/FMEA) to solve problems identified during quality assurance activities. Communicate significant quality issues or developments and recommend process improvements to management. Prepare and present technical and program information to team members and leadership. Direct technical and administrative personnel engaged in quality assurance activities. Maintain a working knowledge of government and industry quality assurance codes and standards (e.g., AS9100, ISO 9001, NADCAP). Support and participate in internal and external supplier quality system audits. Manage non-conformance reports (NCRs), root cause analysis, and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA). Conduct internal audits and support external audits (AS9100, NADCAP, customer). Mentor and support quality inspectors and junior engineers, fostering a culture of quality and accountability. Qualifications Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience and certifications. Minimum 5-7 years of quality engineering experience in a metal machining and aerospace manufacturing environment. Must have working knowledge of NADCAP , AS9100. Proficient in interpreting engineering drawings, GD&T, and machining specifications. Must be self‑motivated and capable of effectively prioritizing and multitasking. Must possess excellent technical, written, and verbal communication skills, and demonstrate strong organizational abilities. Knowledgeable in product development, process optimization, risk analysis, continuous improvement, and verification/validation activities. Effective verbal and written communication skills. Hands‑on experience with precision measurement tools (CMM, micrometers, calipers, etc.). Proven ability to collaborate effectively across departments and communicate clearly with all levels of the organization. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills. Ability to make informed, confident decisions during pressure situations. Must be available to work weekends (particularly during month‑end and quarter‑end periods) and be willing to work more than 40 hours per week as needed. Intermediate skills in MS Office (Excel, Outlook, Word). Physical Requirements Ability to work primarily in a manufacturing environment – environments that may be noisy, hot, cold, or dusty. Must be able to periodically walk and or travel to other areas of the plant and navigate around machinery, production lines, and different areas of the facility. Ability to bend, squat, or reach to inspect equipment or products. Ability to lift up to 35 pounds. Preferred Qualifications Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) or Six Sigma certification. Experience with NADCAP special processes (e.g., NDT, heat treat, welding). Familiarity with ERP and QMS systems. Why Join Us? Be a key contributor in a team‑driven, quality‑focused culture. Work on cutting‑edge aerospace components in a high‑precision environment. Competitive compensation and benefits. Opportunities for professional growth and leadership. EEO Statement All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. National Security This position requires use of information or access to production processes subject to national security controls under U.S. export control laws and regulations (including, but not limited to, the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR)). To comply with those regulations, this position may require applicants to be U.S. Persons (i.e., U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)), or eligible to obtain the required export authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce. Compensation and Benefits Pay range: $95,000 – $140,000 USD. Qualified for the Company’s Quarterly Cash Bonus Plan, with a 2X competitive factor. 120 hours paid time off annually and 10 paid holidays. Medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. Eligible for Company 401(k) plan. #J-18808-Ljbffr