Quality Lead

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on uncrewed systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY

The Quality Lead is responsible for day-to-day quality execution and leadership on the shop floor and across programs, ensuring quality requirements are understood, followed, and effective. This role serves as the primary quality execution point of contact for Manufacturing, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Program Management.

Reporting to the Quality Manager, the Quality Lead ensures rapid response to quality issues, disciplined containment and root cause execution, and consistent application of quality standardsibridging the Quality Management System to real-time operational execution.

ESSENTIAL JOB

FUNCTIONSDaily Quality Execution & Floor LeadershipLead daily quality execution activities across Assembly, Test, and ReceivingServe as the primary Quality point of contact for shop-floor issues and questionsEnsure work is performed in accordance with drawings, travelers, inspection plans, and proceduresReinforce stop-the-line authority when quality or compliance is at riskPlan & perform APQP processes per AS 9145Develop processes, procedures, & work instructions for quality and or manufacturingNonconformance, Containment & Issue ResponseLead initial containment and disposition of nonconformances (NCRs)Coordinate immediate corrective actions to protect production flow and customer deliveriesSupport and drive root cause analysis (8D, A3, DMAIC) in partnership with other teamsEnsure corrective actions are implemented, verified, and sustainedManufacturing, Engineering & Program IntegrationPartner with Manufacturing to improve first-time-through yield and process adherenceSupport Engineering with quality input on design changes, build readiness, and technical issuesSupport Program Management with quality status, risks, and recovery actionsEnsure engineering changes are correctly implemented and verified on the floorInspection, FAI & Acceptance OversightSupport and coordinate First Article Inspection (FAI) activities per AS9102Ensure in-process and final inspections are executed correctly and on timeReview inspection results and escalate issues as requiredSupport build and test readiness decisions from a quality standpointPerform dimensional inspections using precision measurement tools in accordance with inspection plans and drawingsVerify GD&T requirements and dimensional tolerancesSupplier & Incoming Quality SupportSupport receiving inspection and supplier quality activitiesAssist with supplier nonconformance investigations and corrective actions (SCARs)Ensure supplier quality issues are communicated clearly and resolved promptlyAssist supply chain management in supplier development & perform supplier auditsMetrics, Reporting & CommunicationTrack and communicate daily quality metrics (NCRs, escapes, yield, COPQ drivers)Provide clear quality status updates to Operations, Programs, and Quality ManagementSupport quality inputs to tier meetings, MORs, and reviewsIdentify trends and escalate systemic risksStandards, Compliance & DisciplineEnsure compliance with AS9100D, internal procedures, and customer requirementsSupport audits, customer visits, and compliance reviewsReinforce disciplined execution of standard work and quality processesServe as a role model for quality culture and accountabilityPartner with the QMS manager to create, train and incorporate process & procedures

SUPERVISORY

RESPONSIBILITYProvides day-to-day work direction and mentoring to Inspectors and Quality TechniciansNo formal performance-management authority unless delegatedLeads through presence, influence, and execution discipline

Keyword:

quality leadership, manufacturing quality, AS9100D, AS9145, AS9102, APQP, NCRs, root cause, 8D, DMAIC, inspection, FAI, GD&T, supplier quality, corrective actions, process adherence, audits, metrics

Required Experience:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS

& ABILITIESRequiredStrong hands-on experience in manufacturing quality executionWorking knowledge of AS9100D and aerospace quality practicesExperience with NCR, containment, and root cause analysisAbility to read and interpret engineering drawings and specificationsStrong communication and problem-solving skillsAbility to manage confidential and export-controlled information (ITAR)PreferredExperience in aerospace, defense, propulsion, or regulated manufacturing environmentsFamiliarity with AS9102 (FAI), PFMEA, and control plansExperience leading shop-floor quality activities

EDUCATION AND

EXPERIENCERequiredBacheloris degree in Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, or related discipline(Equivalent experience may be considered)5i8 years of experience in quality, manufacturing, or inspection rolesDemonstrated experience supporting production environmentsPreferredASQ certification (CQE, CQT) or equivalentExperience in high-mix, low-volume manufacturing

WORK ENVIRONMENT

/ PHYSICAL... For full info follow application link. Kratos is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disabled. All qualified job seekers are encouraged to apply. Kratos is committed to America's veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing after service to our nation. We also work to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.