Senior Quality Assurance Manager leading the quality engineering/assurance function for Kearfott’s Guidance, Navigation & Defense Division, ensuring products and systems meet aerospace/defense customer and regulatory requirements. You’ll drive QMS improvements, audits, CAPA/root-cause processes, and cross-functional quality initiatives in a regulated manufacturing environment. Standout perk: a 9/80 schedule with every other Friday off, plus strong benefits.
- 9/80 schedule, every other Friday off
- 401(k) with company match
- Tuition assistance and strong benefits
We are looking for talented individuals who want to be part of a world-class work force. Join Kearfott and become part of a company that is recognized for technical expertise and respected world-wide as a 'full service' provider.
For more information visit our website at www.kearfott.com
Senior Quality Assurance Manager
Position Summary
The Senior Quality Assurance Manager is responsible for leading and overseeing the quality engineering and assurance organization within the Guidance, Navigation & Defense (GND) Division. This role ensures that products, processes, and systems consistently meet customer, regulatory, and industry requirements. Reporting to the Vice President of Program Management and Operations, this position plays a critical leadership role in driving strategic quality initiatives, advancing continuous improvement, and strengthening a culture of quality excellence across the organization.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide leadership and strategic direction for quality assurance and quality control activities supporting Guidance and Navigation equipment for aerospace and defense applications
- Ensure compliance with AS9100D and all applicable regulatory and customer requirements
- Lead, mentor, and develop quality engineering and inspection teams, fostering accountability and professional growth
- Partner with Engineering, Operations, and Supply Chain leadership to drive systemic improvements in product quality and manufacturing processes
- Champion root cause analysis and corrective/preventive action processes using structured methodologies (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone)
- Lead internal and external audits, including customer and regulatory audits, ensuring successful outcomes and timely closure of findings
- Drive the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the Quality Management System (QMS)
- Oversee inspection and test strategies to ensure alignment with production demands and customer expectations
- Establish, monitor, and report key quality performance indicators (KPIs), trends, and risks to senior leadership
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product reliability, reduce defects, and improve operational efficiency
- Drive Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) implementation and integration across programs
- Ensure the integrity and compliance of quality records, documentation, and configuration control processes
Core Competencies
- Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence across all levels of the organization
- Strategic thinker with a results-driven mindset
- Advanced problem-solving and analytical skills
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Collaborative, cross-functional leadership approach
- Deep understanding of aerospace quality systems and standards (AS9100D)
Qualifications
Education:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality, or a related technical discipline (required)
Experience
- 8-12+ years of experience in aerospace/defense quality engineering or quality management
- Demonstrated leadership experience managing quality teams and driving organizational improvements
- Strong background in regulated manufacturing environments
- APQP implementation experience highly desired
Certifications (Preferred):
- Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt
- ASQ certifications (CQE, CQM, etc.) strongly preferred
Additional Requirements:
- Familiarity with government and defense contracting requirements (DCMA, ITAR, etc.)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- This is an onsite position based in Pine Brook, NJ
In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in New Jersey is $154,000 - $200,000 annually. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to job-related knowledge and skills, experience, and internal consistency.
Additionally, we offer a medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, a 401(k) plan with company match, tuition assistance, paid vacation and sick days, paid holidays, and a 9/80 work week with every other Friday off. Our work environment embraces our people as we enjoy monthly employee events that celebrate our workplace culture.
Equal Opportunity Employer/including Disabled/Veterans