Quality Management and Improvement Internal Auditor

AeroVironment•Huntsville, AL

80d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Quality Management and Improvement Internal Auditor is responsible for performing quality management systems audits (product, process, or systems) at several AV locations. They provide technical subject matter expertise on the interpretation and usage of standards with AV staff and external audit resources. This role communicates, trains, and coordinates improvement of QMS policies, processes, and procedures. The auditor performs periodic audits and engages process owners and resources to identify quality management system risks and compliance with Aerospace standards (i.e. AS9100D) and international standards (i.e. ISO 9001:2015). They engage process owners and leadership in the management and timeliness of corrective and preventive action responses, and evaluate the adequacy of those responses. Additionally, they engage process owners and leadership in the planning and implementation of auditing activities and participate in continuous improvement activities. This role provides governance and oversight to ensure programs are executed within the QMS framework and maintains problem reporting and CAPA systems for Containment, Correction & Prevention Actions and Documentation of non-conformances (or findings) to the QMS. The auditor leads RCCA of trend-level issues across the QMS and performs other duties as assigned or required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Quality, or a related technical field (master’s preferred).
Minimum 7 years of experience in quality, mission assurance, or regulatory compliance within the defense, aerospace, or high-reliability manufacturing environment.
Strong background in AS9100, ISO 9001, ITAR, CMMI, and defense quality standards.
U.S. Citizenship Required.
Must be a U.S. person under the ITAR and EAR regulations.

Nice To Haves

CPA/CIA or other certification preferred
Strong communication and influencing skills, with the ability to lead without direct authority.
Proven leadership experience managing auditing, compliance teams and cross-functional initiatives.
Experience with government contracts, DoD requirements, and working with regulatory agencies.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
Lean-Six-Sigma and other Continuous Improvement skills.
Proficiency with quality tools/software (e.g., Minitab, SPC/QMS platforms, PLM, ERP systems).
Preferred Certifications: ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) or ASQ Certified Quality Manager (CQM); Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or Master Black Belt; Project Management Professional (PMP); Certified Lead Auditor for AS9100/ISO 9001.
Displays strong initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectives
Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products
Is committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve and enhance performance of oneself, others, and the company
Strong background in QMS implementation and risk mitigation strategies.
Focuses on teamwork and puts the success of the team above one's own interests

Responsibilities

Provide technical subject matter expertise on the interpretation and usage of standards with AV staff and external audit resources (i.e. 3 party registrars and customers).
Communicates, trains, and coordinates improvement of QMS policies, processes, and procedures.
Perform periodic audits and engage process owners and resources to identify quality management system risks and compliance with Aerospace standards (i.e. AS9100D) and international standards (i.e. ISO 9001:2015)
Engages process owners and leadership in the management and timeliness of corrective and preventive action responses. In addition, evaluate the adequacy of those responses.
Engages process owners and leadership in the planning and implementation of auditing activities and participate in continuous improvement activities.
Provides governance and oversight to ensure programs are executed within the QMS framework.
Maintains problem reporting and CAPA systems for Containment, Correction & Prevention Actions and Documentation of non-conformances (or findings) to the QMS.
Leads RCCA of trend-level issues across the QMS.
Performs other duties as assigned or required