Senior Quality Engineer

Beehive Industries • Knoxville, TN

6d

About The Position

The Senior Quality Engineer supports and independently executes quality engineering activities in aerospace CNC machining operations, ensuring product conformity to engineering, customer, and regulatory requirements. The role applies knowledge of GD&T, inspection methods, SPC, and AS9100 quality systems to support First Article Inspections, in-process quality control, and continuous improvement. The position collaborates with Manufacturing, Engineering, and Supply Chain to resolve quality issues, improve process capability, and maintain compliance in a high-precision production environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience; alternatively, a master’s degree with at least 3 years of experience.
• At least 5 years of experience in quality engineering, inspection, or manufacturing quality roles.
• Hands-on experience in AS9100- or ISO 9001-certified manufacturing environments.
• Experience performing or supporting First Article Inspections per AS9102.
• Experience with CMM operation and basic programming using PC-DMIS or similar software.
• Experience with SPC implementation, control charts, and basic statistical process analysis.
• Strong understanding of GD&T (ASME Y14.5) and its application in inspection and manufacturing environments.
• Proficiency with dimensional inspection tools and metrology equipment.
• Working knowledge of CMM programming, inspection execution, and CAD-based inspection concepts.
• Strong problem-solving skills using RCCA tools such as 8D, 5 Whys, and Fishbone.
• Ability to analyze quality data and identify trends, variation, and improvement opportunities.
• Solid understanding of AS9100 quality systems, audit requirements, and manufacturing compliance.
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate across Engineering, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain.
• Ability to train and support junior team members on inspection and quality processes.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint; familiarity with ERP/QMS systems is preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated initiative in driving process improvement and reducing quality escapes.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government-issued security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required because only U.S. citizens are eligible for a clearance.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in aerospace, defense, or precision machining environments.
• Advanced CMM programming experience with PC-DMIS, Calypso, or equivalent.
• Experience in additive manufacturing or hybrid machining environments.
• Experience supporting AS9100 audits or customer quality audits.
• Familiarity with MSA, including Gauge R&R and capability studies.
• Experience with supplier quality or external vendor coordination.
• Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma Green Belt certification.
• Experience developing inspection strategies for new product introduction (NPI).
• Strong shop-floor presence and a hands-on problem-solving mindset.

Responsibilities

• Perform and lead dimensional inspections using manual and automated metrology tools, including calipers, micrometers, height gauges, indicators, and comparators.
• Support and independently execute First Article Inspections in accordance with AS9102 requirements.
• Interpret complex engineering drawings and apply GD&T principles to verify product conformance.
• Develop and maintain inspection plans, control plans, and work instructions for in-process and final inspection.
• Support and perform CMM programming and inspection execution using PC-DMIS or similar software.
• Develop and implement SPC charts, monitor process capability, and support Cp/Cpk analysis.
• Analyze inspection and production data to identify trends, variations, and process improvement opportunities.
• Lead or support root cause and corrective action efforts using structured problem-solving methods such as 8D, 5 Whys, and Fishbone.
• Identify, document, and disposition nonconforming material using established NCR/CAPA processes.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing and Engineering teams to resolve production and machining quality issues.
• Maintain accurate and complete QMS documentation, including calibration records, inspection data, and audit materials.
• Support internal and external audits, including AS9100 and customer audits, and maintain audit readiness.
• Assist in developing measurement methods and inspection strategies for new and existing products.
• Train and guide junior Quality staff and production personnel on inspection methods and GD&T application.
• Use Microsoft Office and quality systems, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and ERP/QMS tools, for reporting and documentation.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives to reduce scrap, rework, and process variation.
• Follow EHS policies, procedures, PPE requirements, and hazard reporting expectations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Group medical, dental, and life coverage from day one.
• Short- and long-term disability coverage from day one.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match.
• Bonus eligibility for every role.
• Company equity.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior