Quality Manager

Who We Are At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors — regardless of their defense budget — through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision "democratized deterrence." As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission‑adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world‑class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting‑edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost. About the Role Firestorm Labs is seeking a proactive and strategic Quality Manager to join our growing team in San Diego. The Site Quality Manager is a high‑impact, hands‑on leader responsible for ensuring that new hardware products are introduced into production with robust quality designs, scalable processes, and compliant documentation. You will play a critical role in bridging hardware design, new product integration, and core quality management principles to ensure reliable, repeatable, and safe product performance. In this role, you will serve as the primary quality representative partnering closely with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and operations throughout the entire product development lifecycle. You will apply best practices from standards such as ISO 9001 to implement right‑sized quality processes that support operational efficiency, early production builds, and future compliance needs. You will also be responsible for building the site’s quality control function, including inspection, test capabilities, and supplier quality processes from the ground up. What You’ll Do Participate in all phases of the NPI lifecycle, including design reviews, process development, validation, and prototype and pilot build events. Collaborate with engineering teams to gather product and process data and develop quality plans, inspection criteria, control strategies, and test methods for new products. Develop and execute a strategy to establish Quality Control processes and capabilities that support low‑rate initial production and production ramp. Conduct risk analyses such as FMEA, DFMEA, and PFMEA and ensure mitigation actions are implemented, verified, and tracked. Partner with cross‑functional teams to identify issues, drive timely resolution, and strengthen the NPI process. Work with design, manufacturing, and supply chain to embed quality requirements into product and process design. Develop the site’s supplier quality assurance strategy and supporting processes. Review and approve first article inspections, PPAP packages, qualification builds, and validation reports. Lead root cause analyses and own corrective and preventive actions related to NPI quality issues. Support process capability studies and implement statistical control methods where appropriate. Drive lessons learned, standardization, and continuous improvement into future NPI programs. Develop the roadmap for Quality Management System implementation and build scalable processes that enable business continuity, compliance, and long‑term growth. Provide training, mentorship, and quality guidance to engineering, operations, and technical teams. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Aerospace, Electrical, or a related engineering discipline. 8+ years of progressive experience in quality engineering, manufacturing, or a related technical field. U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations, with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance. Experience with New Product Introduction (NPI) and Product Lifecycle Change Management processes. Demonstrated experience with FMEAs, control plans, PPAPs, and ISO 9001, IATF 16949, or AS9100 quality systems. Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and root‑cause analysis skills. Working knowledge of GD&T, design for manufacturability, and process validation. Solid understanding of aerospace or industrial quality systems, inspection methods, and quality engineering fundamentals. Familiarity with FAR, DFARS, ITAR, and U.S. Government acquisition regulations. Ability to learn quickly, apply new concepts accurately, and manage evolving priorities. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint). Excellent communication and cross‑functional collaboration abilities. Clear and professional communication with technical and non‑technical users. Preferred Qualifications 10+ years of progressive experience in quality engineering, manufacturing, or a related technical field. Experience with Costpoint ERP and Arena PLM. Prior experience in an early‑stage, high‑growth tech or hardware startup environment. Ability to drive change, mature processes, and adapt quality systems to evolving business needs. Ability to influence change and adapt processes as business needs evolve. Demonstrated ability to manage complex, fast‑paced operations in a dynamic environment. Work Environment This role is based in San Diego, CA. We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate. This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and the physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about regularly throughout the day. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment. Compensation U.S. Range: $142,000 – $168,000 The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve. Benefits & Perks Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast‑growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation: We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long‑term retirement goals Equity grants for new hires Unlimited PTO Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December. Generous Parental Leave Lifestyle Spending Account FSA DCFSA HSA Hospital Indemnity insurance Critical Illness insurance Accident insurance Basic Life/AD&D, short‑term and long‑term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family. Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work‑life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well. Export Control Compliance To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce. Equal Opportunity Statement Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at View email address on click.appcast.io so we can provide the support you need. #J-18808-Ljbffr