Quality Engineer

About the role

You will own the execution of quality plans and inspection checklists for all manufacturing operations, ensuring every process step is documented, controlled, and traceable. You will partner closely with engineering and production to translate design requirements into practical, compliant inspection procedures that can be executed on the shop floor. You will lead the implementation of statistical process controls and root cause analysis for any nonconformance, driving corrective actions that prevent recurrence. You will be responsible for qualifying new inspection methods and measurement techniques, validating that they meet the strict accuracy and repeatability needs of aerospace components. You will manage material traceability from incoming checks through work-in-progress to final delivery, ensuring full lot traceability and correct documentation. You will perform audits of the quality management system, verifying adherence to AS9100D, ISO 9001, and customer contractual requirements with zero tolerance for gaps. You will act as the primary technical contact for regulatory and customer audits, owning evidence collection and demonstrating compliance with airworthiness requirements. You will mentor manufacturing teams on quality expectations, fostering a culture where defect prevention and continuous improvement are standard behaviors.

Key facts

What you'll do

Perform incoming material inspection and verification of supplier certifications for all composite fabrics, resins, and core materials used in production.

Develop and maintain first article inspection reports and initial process validation plans to confirm that build methods will consistently produce parts meeting specifications.

Create and control work instructions and standard inspection documents using controlled document procedures, ensuring version accuracy and accessibility on the shop floor.

Execute dimensional verification using hand tools, gauges, and coordinate measuring machines, recording results in compliance with aerospace data standards.

Lead failure mode and effects analysis activities for new processes, identifying potential defects before they impact production yield or product performance.

Monitor production processes in real time, using checklists and gauges to detect variation early and initiate immediate corrective actions.

Manage nonconformance reports, ensuring all issues are logged, categorized, and resolved through defined corrective and preventive action processes.

Oversee the calibration and maintenance of inspection and test equipment, scheduling services and verifying that instruments remain within approved tolerances.

Support the preparation of regulatory submissions and compliance packages, compiling evidence that demonstrates adherence to airworthiness standards.

Perform process audits and system reviews to confirm that quality procedures are followed, records are complete, and continuous improvement initiatives are active.

Coordinate with supply chain and logistics teams to ensure that material traceability and lot documentation are maintained throughout the entire production chain.

Assist in the development and qualification of tooling and fixtures, verifying that they meet mechanical and geometric requirements before production use.

Train and guide production staff on quality standards, inspection techniques, and the importance of compliance with AS9100D and ISO 9001 requirements.

Serve as the day-to-day owner of quality metrics, tracking trends, reporting results, and recommending actions to improve first time quality.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Aviation, or a related technical field, or equivalent practical experience.

Demonstrated experience in aerospace, defense, or regulated manufacturing environments, with a strong understanding of AS9100D and ISO 9001 requirements.

Hands on experience with composite manufacturing processes, including pre-preg layup, curing, and secondary operations.

Proven ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documents with minimal guidance.

Strong knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing principles and the ability to apply them during inspection activities.

Experience with quality management systems and the use of tools for tracking nonconformances, audits, and corrective actions.

Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast paced, deadline driven environment.

Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and verbally, with team members at all levels of the organization.

Nice to have

Experience with statistical process control and data analysis tools.

Knowledge of additive manufacturing or advanced joining processes in addition to composites.

Practical notes

Pivotal is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

This role may require occasional travel up to 10% within the United States for training, audits, or supplier visits.

Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship at the time of hire.

New hires are subject to a 90 day probationary period.

Employment is at will.

This position requires access to Pivotal facilities in Palo Alto on a regular basis. Remote work may be considered for eligible positions after an established performance period.