Director of Quality (Aerospace Precision Machining)

TekPro is partnered with a high-growth precision machining company in the Bay Area in their search for a Director of Quality! The ideal candidate will have proven experience directing QA/QC for high-mix precision machining, preferably within the aerospace, defense, medical, or semiconductor industries. Job Title: Director of QualityLocation: San JoseDepartment: Quality Assurance / Quality EngineeringReports To: PresidentPosition SummaryThe Director of Quality is responsible for leading the organization's quality strategy, ensuring products and processes meet the highest standards of performance, reliability, and compliance. This role oversees all aspects of Quality Engineering, Quality Control, and Inspection, with direct leadership of a core team of quality engineers and indirect oversight of a larger inspection workforce. The Director of Quality will drive continuous improvement initiatives, ensure regulatory and customer compliance, and build a culture of quality excellence across the organization.Organizational Scope:Direct Reports: 7 Quality Engineers; ~20 indirect reports within inspectionKey Responsibilities:Quality Leadership & StrategyDevelop and execute the company-wide quality strategy aligned with business objectivesEstablish quality goals, KPIs, and metrics to drive performance and accountabilityPromote a culture of continuous improvement and proactive quality managementTeam Leadership & DevelopmentLead, mentor, and develop a team of Quality EngineersProvide indirect leadership and direction to inspection and quality technician teamsBuild organizational capability through training, coaching, and succession planningQuality Systems & ComplianceEnsure compliance with applicable standards (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100, or industry-specific requirements)Oversee the Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring effectiveness and continuous improvementLead internal and external audits, including customer and regulatory auditsOperational Quality OversightDrive improvements in incoming, in-process, and final inspection processesEnsure robust nonconformance management, root cause analysis, and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA)Partner with Manufacturing and Engineering to improve process capability and reduce defectsSupplier & Customer QualityEstablish and maintain supplier quality standards and performance metricsWork with suppliers to resolve quality issues and improve incoming material qualityInterface with customers on quality matters, including audits, complaints, and corrective actionsData & Continuous ImprovementUtilize data analytics to identify trends, risks, and improvement opportunitiesLead Lean, Six Sigma, or similar initiatives to improve quality, reduce waste, and increase efficiencyDrive cost-of-quality reduction initiativesQualifications:Education:Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, or related field requiredExperience:8-12+ years of progressive experience in Quality Engineering / Quality Management3-5+ years in a leadership role Experience in a manufacturing or technology-driven environment requiredSkills & CompetenciesStrong leadership and organizational management skillsDeep knowledge of quality systems, standards, and auditing practicesExpertise in root cause analysis methodologies (e.g., 8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone)Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principlesExcellent communication and stakeholder management skillsAbility to influence cross-functional teams and drive changeWork EnvironmentOffice and manufacturing floor environmentRegular interaction with engineering, production, and executive leadershipOccasional travel to suppliers or customer sites may be requiredPreferred QualificationsASQ certifications (e.g., CQE, CQM/OE)Experience scaling quality organizations in high-growth environmentsBackground in electronics, semiconductor, or advanced manufacturing industries

Created: 2026-05-08