Senior Quality Engineer (Aerospace / AS9100)

Company Description:JGA Space & Defense (JGA) is a rapidly growing, private equity-backed leader in the space and defense industry. We specialize in the manufacturing of critical propulsion components, including solid rocket motor insulators and nozzle assemblies, supporting some of the most demanding programs in aerospace and national defense. With a recently expanded footprint in Huntersville, NC and significant investment from our partners, we are entering a pivotal phase of growth. We are seeking an experienced Sr. Quality Engineer to join our team and help build the people foundation that supports our mission to power the next generation of space and defense technology.Position Summary:The Senior Quality Engineer is responsible for ensuring that all products and processes meet customer, regulatory, and internal quality requirements within an AS9100-certified aerospace manufacturing environment. This role plays a critical part in maintaining compliance, driving continuous improvement, and supporting both internal operations and external customer interactions.Key Responsibilities:Lead quality assurance activities across production, inspection, and supplier quality to ensure compliance with AS9100 and customer-specific requirementsPerform contract review with a focus on quality clauses, flow-down requirements, and compliance risksDevelop and implement inspection plans and control plans for new and existing parts, including first article inspection (FAI) requirements per AS9102Manage and drive resolution of Nonconformance Reports (NCR), Return Material Authorizations (RMA), and Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA)Administer and maintain the AS9100 Quality Management System (QMS), including procedures, records, and audit readinessPrepare and submit End Item Data Packages (EIDP) and quality documentation to customers in accordance with contract requirementsHost and support customer source inspectors, ensuring readiness of documentation, traceability, and product conformityMonitor supplier performance through scorecards, support supplier corrective actions, and maintain supplier portals and documentationConduct internal audits and support external audits (customer, registrar, regulatory)Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain to ensure quality is embedded in all processesDrive root cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives using tools such as 8D, RCCA, and statistical methodsQualifications:Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field (Mechanical, Aerospace, or Industrial preferred)5–10+ years of quality engineering experience in aerospace or defense manufacturingStrong working knowledge of AS9100 and aerospace quality standards (AS9102, AS9145 preferred)Experience with contract review, technical drawings, GD&T, and specification interpretationProven experience managing NCR, RMA, and CAPA processesFamiliarity with customer portals (e.g., SpaceX, L3Harris, Northrop Grumman) is a plusStrong understanding of inspection methods, metrology, and documentation requirementsLead Auditor certification (AS9100) preferredSkills and Competencies:Strong analytical and problem-solving skillsExcellent communication and customer interaction abilitiesHigh attention to detail and documentation accuracyAbility to lead cross-functional teams and drive accountabilityProficient in quality tools (8D, FMEA, SPC, root cause analysis)Comfortable working in a fast-paced, regulated manufacturing environment