Associate Staff - Fabrication & Process Quality Engineer (Fabrication Engineering Group)

Group 72 - Fabrication Engineering

The Fabrication Engineering Group (72) provides rapid fabrication, assembly, integration, and test of advanced hardware prototypes for national security applications. Examples include the precision machining of fiber mounts for airborne high energy laser systems, multi-functional structures using additive processes for ground-based radar systems, custom printed circuit boards (PCBs) for space-borne data processing, and highly integrated mechanical packaging for undersea communication terminals. The group concentrates on high-complexity parts, quick-turn capabilities, and activities that require concurrent engineering with Program teams. Core mechanical competencies span precision fabrication, additive manufacturing, and 5-axis machining. Core PCB capabilities include automated solder paste dispensers, precise pick-n-place machines, and automated optical inspection systems. Assembly, integration, and test capabilities include integration spaces, clean rooms, vibration testing, thermal testing, and space simulation chambers. The Group focuses on state-of-practice prototyping capabilities, technical excellence, exceptional collaboration, and outstanding operation.

Job Description

The Group seeks a talented, creative, and motivated individual to strengthen the Group’s ability to provide rapid and innovative solutions to challenging problems. A Fabrication & Process Quality Engineer will focus on shop floor compliance, quality management, continuous improvement, and the application of Lean manufacturing principles in a low volume, high mix prototyping environment. The Fabrication Group seeks to improve internal operations and program satisfaction through a comprehensive quality management approach.

The successful candidate will collaborate with an interdisciplinary team including program team members, shop area leads, and the planning team to optimize and effectively execute shop quality management processes. Quality management system (QMS) focus areas will enhance the current framework that include fabrication processes, procedures, reporting issues, leading corrective action projects and tracking quality metrics.  The QE will serve as the primary quality point of contact for fabrication quality issues, coordinating resolution prior to Group Office escalation.  Specific job functions may include:

• Oversee and coordinate the day-to-day operation of the G72 Fabrication Engineering Quality Management System and related continuous improvement projects
• Drive standardization of quality processes across fabrication areas and promote consistent quality management practices
• Facilitate nonconformance review, disposition coordination, FRACAS, SCAR, and corrective action activities
• Provide quality engineering guidance during nonconformance review to improve inspection criteria, reduce unnecessary inspection, and promote consistent, risk-based quality decisions
• Lead Monthly QMS meetings with each shop area of the Group.  Develop and maintain quality metrics, dashboards, quad charts, and visual management tools
• Quarterly report summarizing overall quality in the Group
• Closed loop issues management: identify issues, analyze, corrective action, prevention
• Participate in risk analyses including supplier, process, and equipment assessments
• Analyze recurring quality issues and recommend improvements to inspection criteria, supplier quality, fabrication processes, and quality procedures
• Partner with Inspection, Mission Assurance, Engineering, and Program teams to improve inspection criteria, quality terminology, and nonconformance management

Requirements

• A Master’s degree in engineering or a related field, or a Bachelor’s degree with at least 5 years of relevant experience
• Demonstrated leadership experience in problem solving and quality management systems, preferably in a low volume high mix regulated manufacturing environment
• Experience in the application of statistical process controls, issues analysis and management, calibration protocols, and /or change management are desired
• Experience facilitating corrective action, root cause analysis, supplier quality, or nonconformance management is desired
• Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate across engineering, manufacturing, inspection, planning, suppliers, and Mission Assurance
• Proven leadership skills and ability to thrive in a team environment
• Recognized self-motivator that seeks to continuously learn and challenge himself/herself
• Ability to multi-task and drive issues to closure
• Experience utilizing digital engineering methodologies and data systems
• Experience with advanced inspection equipment and metrology equipment are desired