Head of Quality

Axiom Space•Houston, TX

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Axiom Space is a human space exploration company, building era-defining space infrastructure and delivering technology-driven solutions that will empower civilization to transcend Earth. Beginning with Axiom Station, successor to the International Space Station, the company is pioneering a next-generation orbital settlement that will foster groundbreaking innovation and research in microgravity and drive the global space economy of tomorrow. Today, guided by the vision of leading humanity's expansion off planet, Axiom Space is the principal provider of commercial human spaceflight services and developer of advanced spacesuits for the Moon and beyond. Axiom Space fosters a work environment inclusive of all perspectives. We are the pioneers of commercial space, leading the transformation of low-Earth orbit into a global space marketplace. Our mission-driven team is seeking a Head of Quality who is fueled by high accountability and ownership, growth mindset, and driven to understand our world, science/technology, and life itself, for the benefit of all on Earth and beyond. The Head of Quality is a senior organizational leader responsible for building and sustaining a high-performance quality function across design, manufacturing, and field operations. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, this role owns the quality management system (QMS), regulatory certification posture, and the culture of quality across all programs. This role leads a team of quality engineers, inspectors, and auditors and serves as the primary quality liaison with customers, regulatory authorities, and certification bodies. Leads the enterprise quality organization, setting strategy and standards for product assurance, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement across all programs. Level and salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Requirements

B.S. in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering; M.S. or MBA preferred
12+ years of quality engineering and leadership experience in aerospace or defense
Demonstrated experience leading quality organizations of 5+ people
Deep expertise in AS9100, NADCAP, FAR/DFAR, and DAL/DO-178 (as applicable)
Experience as a management representative for AS9100 or comparable certification
Proven track record managing DCMA or FAA oversight relationships
Familiarity with ITAR/EAR compliance obligations at the enterprise level
Executive-level communication skills; experience presenting to C-suite and customers
Strong business judgment and ability to balance risk with commercial objectives
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Proven ability to operate in a fast‑paced, evolving environment
Collaborative leadership style and influencing skills
Strong project management discipline, highly organized, and takes ownership.
Uses sound judgement to problem-solve proactively, positively impacting hard challenges
Demonstrated organization skills to meet tight deadlines with high quality results
Strong agility and adaptability to integrate quickly into a small team.
Passion for space and the mission.
Entrepreneurial, growth mindset.
High EQ and ability to collaborate within teams and cross-functionally.
Tech-solutioning in using systems and tools to move smarter and faster.
Embody our core values of Leadership, Innovation, and Teamwork.
Accountability
Technical Rigor
Execution Discipline
Pride of Delivery
Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation.
Proof of U.S. Citizenship or US Permanent Residency is a requirement for this position.
Must be willing to work evenings and weekends as needed to meet critical milestones.

Nice To Haves

CQE or CQM/OE certification (ASQ) strongly preferred

Responsibilities

Own and evolve the company-wide QMS in compliance with AS9100 Rev D and applicable FAA/EASA regulations
Define quality strategy aligned to company growth, program milestones, and customer requirements
Lead the quality organization through hiring, development, and performance management
Serve as the management representative for all third-party and regulatory audits (DCMA, customer, NADCAP)
Drive a metrics-driven culture: OTD, escape rate, DPPM, cost of poor quality (COPQ)
Executive escalation point for all critical NCRs, field escapes, and MRB dispositions
Champion design for quality, DFMEAs, and systems engineering integration
Partner with the COO and executive team on risk management and program reviews
Establish and enforce supplier quality standards in coordination with supply chain
Support business development by representing quality in proposal reviews and customer audits
Builds organizational capability through coaching and talent development
Balances safety culture with program schedule and cost realities
Drives systemic improvement rather than reactive firefighting
Influences cross-functionally without direct authority
Makes principled decisions under regulatory and customer scrutiny
Serve as a strategic advisor to the Chief Operating Officer and leadership on quality, compliance, and risk matters
Help define and execute the company’s overall quality strategy in alignment with business goals
Perform other duties as assigned.