Operations & Quality Associate

Operations & Quality Associate

The Operations & Quality Associate is responsible for supporting and optimizing manufacturing operations, equipment, and processes to improve efficiency, quality, and safety. This role works cross-functional with Operations, Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Program Management to drive performance improvements and resolve operational challenges. This position also supports the company's Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring compliance with AS9100 standards, supporting audits, analyzing data, and providing technical support across manufacturing processes.

Key Responsibilities – Operations (Approx. 70%)

• Generate and manage work orders and test orders to support daily operations and improve cross-functional efficiency
• Develop, implement, and maintain procedures that optimize safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory, quality, and internal operating standards
• Support manufacturing processes including testing, machining, fabrication, forming, finishing, and assembly
• Monitor production throughput, schedule attainment, and labor productivity
• Ensure equipment readiness, coordinate maintenance activities, and support capacity planning
• Serve as backup support for shipping/receiving and front office activities as needed
• Promote and support adherence to company safety policies and safe work practices

Key Responsibilities – Quality (Approx. 30%)

• Support the development, implementation, and maintenance of the AS9100-compliant Quality Management System (QMS)
• Conduct internal process audits and assist with customer, supplier, and third-party audits
• Evaluate supplier quality performance and support corrective actions as needed
• Review and validate Certificates of Conformance (COCs), Certificates of Analysis (COAs), and material certifications
• Verify that incoming materials meet all specifications and quality requirements
• Support calibration program compliance, including instrument traceability and periodic verification of measurement equipment

Education & Experience Requirements

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related technical field preferred
• Relevant experience in a manufacturing and/or quality environment may be considered in lieu of a degree
• Familiarity with AS9100, ISO 9001, or similar aerospace/defense quality systems preferred
• Proficiency with measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, and height gauges
• Understanding of calibration practices and equipment validation

Desired Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and technical writing abilities
• Experience working with advanced materials (composites, metals) preferred
• Proficient in Microsoft Office; experience with SolidWorks PDM is a plus

Supervision Level

Moderate