Senior Quality Systems Manager

Senior Quality Systems Manager

Blue Ops is building next-generation unmanned surface vessels (USVs) for defense and national security applications. Our products operate in mission-critical environments where reliability is not optional—and failure is unacceptable. As a President-led organization with deep roots in the Hinckley family boatbuilding legacy, we are committed to delivering vessels that meet the highest standards of craftsmanship, performance, and reliability. We are seeking a Senior Quality Systems Manager to design, implement and continually improve world-class quality systems in our Valdosta boat building operations. The Senior Quality Systems Manager will take full ownership of product quality processes from production through final delivery to the end user. This role exists to ensure two non-negotiable outcomes: Through extreme process discipline, every vessel delivered meets or exceeds the expectations set during the sales process. Field test data and customer feedback are utilized in continuous improvement activities to update and optimize both manufacturing and quality processes.

This position reports directly to the Director of Quality Control & Customer Satisfaction

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain quality control plans, inspection plans, checklists, and acceptance criteria for components, assemblies, and completed USV systems.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and training programs related to inspection and product test/verification.
• Oversee in-process inspection activities on the production floor, ensuring manufacturing processes are executed correctly and product conformity is maintained throughout the build process.
• Manage final inspection and product verification test activities to ensure completed systems meet configuration, engineering, and quality requirements prior to shipment or operational use.
• Ensure proper material control processes for nonconforming product, including segregation, identification, and tracking in accordance with AS9100 requirements.
• Support Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) activities by identifying recurring quality issues and verifying the effectiveness of implemented solutions.
• Work closely with Manufacturing Engineering to evaluate and update PFMEAs based on verification testing and field performance data.
• Monitor and analyze inspection data and quality metrics to identify trends, prevent escapes, and drive improvements in manufacturing quality performance.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team ensuring high standards of workmanship, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality, or a related field
• 8+ years of experience in quality roles in a manufacturing environment, including 3+ years in leadership
• Hands-on experience with incoming, in-line, and end-of-line quality systems
• Strong process and documentation skills
• Understanding of quality planning and product development lifecycle
• Working knowledge of AS9100, ISO9001, ITAR, and FAA compliance
• Willingness to travel to supplier and contract manufacturing sites
• Familiar with and used various techniques such as 8D, Fishbone diagram, and 5 "why's"

Additional Desired Qualifications

• FAA Part 107 certification
• Experience in the drone, aerospace, or defense industries
• Certifications such as Six Sigma, CQE, or Lean Manufacturing
• Prior work with government contracts or DoD programs

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Must be able to walk, stand, and navigate large indoor and outdoor facilities for extended periods of time.
• Ability to lift, carry, and move materials and equipment weighing up to 25 lbs on a regular basis.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required in designated areas or when performing specific tasks, in accordance with safety protocols and company policy.
• May be required to climb ladders, stoop, kneel, or crouch during inspections, maintenance walk-throughs, or emergency response situations.
• Regular exposure to facility operations including noise, dust, temperature fluctuations, and industrial equipment.
• Occasional off-hours or weekend work required for emergency facility responses or projects as needed
• Requires frequent use of a computer and other standard office equipment for documentation, communication, and coordination tasks.

Background Check

This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.

EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure

Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.

E-Verify

The company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.

Compensation: Base pay, plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses.