Director of Quality

Director of QualityPosition OverviewWe are seeking a seasoned Director of Quality to lead and continuously improve our quality systems across metal fabrication, metal machinery, and precision components for aerospace and automotive customers. The Director of Quality will define quality strategy, ensure compliance with industry standards (AS/EN 9100, IATF 16949), build robust inspection and testing programs, and drive operational excellence using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. This leader will partner with engineering, operations, supply chain and customers to deliver defect-free products, reduce variation, and enhance manufacturing tools and processes.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and execute a comprehensive quality strategy aligned to business goals for metal components and machinery serving aerospace and automotive markets.Own and continuously improve the Quality Management System, ensuring compliance to AS/EN 9100, IATF 16949, ISO standards, and customer-specific requirements.Lead cross-functional root cause analysis, corrective/preventive action (CAPA) and supplier quality escalation to eliminate defects and reduce recurrence.Establish and maintain inspection, testing, and validation protocols for incoming material, in-process operations, and final assemblies, including non-destructive testing where applicable.Drive operational excellence initiatives using Lean and Six Sigma tools (DMAIC, value stream mapping, 5S) to reduce scrap, rework, and variability in metalworking and machining processes.Provide leadership, coaching, and development for quality team members and foster a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.Manage supplier quality performance, conduct supplier audits, approve supplier control plans, and work with procurement to qualify new suppliers and tooling.Collaborate with Product Development and Manufacturing Engineering to influence design for manufacturability and inspectability, including tooling and machine capability studies (Cpk, Ppk).Monitor and report quality metrics (PPM, DPU, DPMO, first pass yield) to senior management and implement data-driven improvement plans.Serve as primary contact for customer quality audits, external certifications, and regulatory interactions; ensure timely response to customer issues and containment actions.QualificationsBachelors degree in Engineering, Metallurgy, Manufacturing, or related discipline; advanced degree or relevant professional certifications preferred.5+ years of progressive quality leadership experience in metal fabrication, machining, or metallurgy with significant exposure to aerospace and/or automotive sectors.Proven track record implementing and managing Quality Management Systems to AS/EN 9100 and/or IATF 16949 standards.Strong expertise in inspection and test methods for metal parts, machine tooling, metrology equipment (CMM, gauges), and non-destructive testing techniques.Demonstrated experience leading Lean and Six Sigma projects; Black Belt or equivalent certification strongly preferred.Excellent problem-solving skills with experience in root cause analysis tools (5 Whys, Fishbone, FMEA) and statistical process control (SPC).Experience managing supplier quality programs, conducting supplier audits, and driving supplier development for tooling and components.Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence at all levels and interface with customers during audits and issue resolution.Willingness to travel to supplier sites and customer locations as required.BenefitsPTO Medical, Dental and Vision Plan401k Yearly Bonus