Director, Quality Assurance

Aitech Defense Systems is renowned for its innovation in rugged embedded systems, designed to operate reliably in the challenging environments of military, defense, aerospace, and space applications. Founded in 1983, Aitech has a rich history of pioneering advancements such as the world’s first conduction-cooled MIL-SPEC VMEbus board and has continually evolved its product line to include state-of-the-art SBCs, GPGPU-based AI applications, and advanced cybersecurity for mission-critical systems.

Joining us means you’ll be working at the forefront of technology with projects that span across land, sea, air, and space, supporting some of the top prime contractors in the industry. This opportunity will allow you to contribute to groundbreaking projects and push the boundaries of embedded computing technology.

The Director of Quality Assurance will have overall responsibility for Quality Management of AiTech USA activities.

• Directs and coordinates the preparation and implementation of programs to ensure adherence to the company's quality processes and procedures.
• Certifies the facility to AS9100 standards and monitors compliance, acting as the liaison with the accrediting body.
• Conducts internal audits throughout the organization and manages Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs).
• Oversees the Corrective and Preventive Actions/Corrective Action Request (CAPA/CAR) system for the facility.
• Manages the Supplier Corrective Action Report (SCAR) system for the facility.
• Establishes and tracks quality Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to drive continuous improvement.
• Performs statistical analysis to assess costs and determine responsibility for products or materials that do not meet required standards and specifications.
• Utilizes experience in statistical quality process analytical methods to perform defect analysis.
• Verifies customer complaints, develops action plans to address discrepancies, and communicates with customers as necessary.
• Communicates and resolves cross-functional Quality Assurance (QA) issues.
• Investigates and maintains a thorough understanding of developments in quality assurance codes and standards.
• Conducts audits at subcontractors and key vendors.
• Manages Quality Control (QC) activities, including Incoming/In-process/Final Inspections, First Article Inspections (FAI) per AS-9102, and customer source inspections.
• Manages a small team of personnel

Performs other related duties as assigned by management.ties and Responsibilities:

COMPETENCIES (Skills):

• Analytical - Synthesizes complex and diverse information; Collects and researches data; Uses intuition and experience to complement data collection and evaluation; Designs workflows and procedures. Requires attention to detail. Ability to present data.
• Independent - Self-motivated and drive the organization with minimal guidance.
• Teamwork-Balances team and individual responsibilities; Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; Gives and welcomes feedback; Contributes to building a positive team spirit; Puts success of team above own interests; Able to build morale and group commitments to goals and objectives; Supports everyone's efforts to succeed.
• Planning/Organizing—Analyzes, Prioritizes and plans work activities; Uses time efficiently; Plans for additional resources; Sets goals and objectives; Organizes or schedules other people and their tasks; Develops realistic action plans.
• Innovation-Displays original thinking and creativity; Meets challenges with resourcefulness; Generates suggestions for improving work; Develops innovative approaches and ideas; Presents ideas and information in a manner that gets others' attention. Flexible and willing to work within constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm

The expected annual salary range for this role is $180,000 - $220,000 a year.

Please note the salary information shown above is a general guideline only. Salaries are based upon candidate skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATONS:

• Vast experience in implementing AS9100 Requirements
• Working experience with 1st tier Avionics/Space customers
• Working knowledge and understanding of the basic principles, theories, concepts, and practices associated with Circuit Cards, Avionics/Space Systems, S/W through the life cycle of a complete program
• Knowledge of Reliability Engineering methodologies
• Experience in internal audits of design and project management groups
• Proficient Microsoft Products including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Position requires work in office in Chatsworth, CA (near Los Angeles, CA). No remote or hybrid work option is available.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATONS:

• Knowledge of IPC – 610 – Acceptability of electronic assembly
• Knowledge in S/W Quality Assurance methodologies
• Knowledge of 6 Sigma approach

EXPERIENCE:

At least 10 years of related experience.

EDUCATION:

1. Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) in Electronic or related Engineering – Required

2. CQM/CQE/CRE – Preferred

3. AS9100 certified auditor – Preferred