Senior Quality Assurance Manager

Position SummaryThe Senior Manager of Quality Assurance (QA) at Teal Drones is responsible for leading end-to-end product validation across hardware, firmware, and software systems. This role owns the full verification lifecycle—from early prototype testing through production release—ensuring all drone platforms meet performance, reliability, safety, and regulatory requirements.This leader will build and manage a high-performing QA organization responsible for flight testing, software validation, firmware verification, and hardware validation (mechanical + electrical). The role is critical to delivering mission-ready UAS platforms for both defense and commercial applications.Essential Duties And ResponsibilitiesFlight Test & System ValidationOwn and lead all flight testing operations across development and production phasesDevelop structured test plans, test cards, and flight envelopesValidate performance across: Range, endurance, and environmental conditionsGPS-denied and contested environmentsPayload and mission configurationsEnsure safe and repeatable flight test execution with robust data captureSoftware & Autonomy ValidationLead software QA strategy including: Smoke testingRegression testingIntegration testingSystem-level validationValidate flight control software, autonomy stacks, and ground control systemsEstablish automated test frameworks and CI/CD validation pipelinesPartner with software engineering to drive defect resolution and release qualityFirmware ValidationOwn validation of embedded systems and firmware across: Flight controllersCommunication systemsSensors and payload interfacesDevelop hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and software-in-the-loop (SIL) testing environmentsValidate firmware stability, fail-safes, and update mechanismsMechanical & Electrical ValidationEnsure all airframe and subsystem components meet design and durability requirements: Structural integrity (vibration, shock, fatigue)Thermal performanceEnvironmental testing (dust, moisture, temperature extremes)Validate electrical systems: Power distributionBattery performance and safetyEMI/EMC considerationsPartner with engineering to close design gaps and improve robustnessTest Infrastructure & Data SystemsBuild and scale test infrastructure, including: Labs, test rigs, and instrumentationFlight test ranges and telemetry systemsEstablish standardized data collection, analysis, and reporting toolsDrive data-informed decision-making for product readinessQuality Systems & ComplianceDefine QA processes aligned to: Federal Aviation Administration requirementsDepartment of Defense standards (as applicable)Support certifications, airworthiness considerations, and compliance documentationEnsure traceability from requirements → test → validationLeadership & Team DevelopmentBuild and lead a multidisciplinary QA team: Flight test engineersSoftware QA engineersHardware validation engineersSet performance standards, KPIs, and career development plansFoster a culture of ownership, rigor, and mission focusRequired Qualifications10+ years in QA, validation, or test engineering (UAS, aerospace, robotics, or similar)5+ years in leadership or management rolesDeep experience with: Flight testing and system validationEmbedded systems and firmware testingSoftware QA methodologies (automation preferred)Strong understanding of mechanical and electrical system validationExperience with test tools, telemetry systems, and data analysisAdditional Desired QualificationsBackground in UAS or aerospace systemsExperience working with defense programs or ruggedized systemsFamiliarity with: HIL/SIL environmentsRF systems and communications validationEnvironmental and MIL-STD testingPhysical Requirements And Working ConditionsMust 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 neededRequires frequent use of a computer and other standard office equipment for documentation, communication, and coordination tasks.Background CheckThis 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 DisclosureRed 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-VerifyThe 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.