Director, Quality Assurance

Sierra Space Careers: At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth. Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond. Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space. We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team. About the Role The Director, Quality Assurance is responsible for developing and executing quality assurance strategy to ensure product quality, regulatory compliance, and adherence to quality standards throughout the product lifecycle. This role provides strategic leadership and direction through subordinate managers and individual contributors to maintain robust quality systems, oversee release activities, manage audit processes, and drive quality culture across the organization. The Director, Quality Assurance serves as a key liaison with internal leadership, regulatory agencies, auditors, and external stakeholders while ensuring product integrity and organizational compliance with FDA, ISO, GxP, and other applicable regulatory requirements. The Director, Quality Assurance develops and executes comprehensive quality assurance strategy, implementing the steps needed to achieve objectives across quality systems, documentation control, batch release, and compliance operations. This role provides strategic direction and leads quality assurance activities through subordinate managers and individual contributors, establishing tactical and operational plans that align QA initiatives with business strategy while managing regulatory and business risk. The Director oversees critical quality assurance functions including product release decisions, deviation and CAPA investigations, change control processes, validation activities, internal and external audit management, and supplier quality programs. This position utilizes quality metrics, KPIs, and data-driven decision making to achieve performance goals and compliance targets, while maintaining budget management accountability for quality assurance operations, resources, initiatives, and project schedules. The Director leverages experience with risk management, CAPA systems, and continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma) to drive operational excellence and implements processes that balance regulatory compliance and quality standards with business objectives, operational efficiency, and value creation. The Director models company values and drives quality culture transformation, holding direct reports and cross-functional partners accountable to quality standards and organizational values. About You Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower – to join us in this critical mission. We’re looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals – while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement. Minimum Qualifications Requires Bachelor's degree in a related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree). Proven track record of successfully managing large teams and complex projects. Deep knowledge of quality management systems, regulatory requirements (FDA, ISO, GxP), and industry standards with ability to ensure organizational compliance and product integrity. Strong communication and influence skills to interact effectively with internal leadership, regulatory agencies, auditors, and stakeholders on quality assurance matters. Experience leading quality assurance functions including product release, deviation/CAPA management, change control, validation, and audit management. Demonstrated experience with risk management, quality investigations, and root cause analysis methodologies. Preferred Qualifications Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in a related scientific or quality field. 10+ years of progressive quality assurance experience in regulated industries (pharmaceutical, biotech, medical device). Professional certifications such as Certified Quality Auditor (CQA), Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), or Six Sigma Black Belt. Experience managing regulatory inspections (FDA, EMA, or other health authorities) and external audits. Track record of successfully implementing or remediating quality systems in response to regulatory findings. Experience with electronic quality management systems (eQMS) and digital quality transformation initiatives. Compensation: Pay Range: $201,507.00 - $277,072.50 Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, experience, internal equity and market competitiveness. Elevate Your Career At Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations. We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more. Sierra Space is an industry-leading space and defense technology company providing satellites, spacecraft, and enabling mission systems and components. We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration. Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified. Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees. Sierra Space Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment with Sierra Space or at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us. About Sierra Space Headquartered in Colorado, Sierra Space is a mission-proven Defense Tech company delivering satellite platforms, critical subsystems, reusable spaceplanes, hypersonic technologies, propulsion systems, and infrastructure for the nation’s most critical missions. With more than three decades of heritage and a record of flight-proven success in space, Sierra Space is trusted by U.S. National Security, Civil customers, and global allies. Our technologies safeguard our nation, sustain human exploration in space, and ensure the freedom of operations beyond Earth. Sierra Space is defining the new era of Space Defense, strengthening deterrence today and preserving freedom of action for generations to come.