Supplier Quality Engineer

About the role

Stratolaunch is at the forefront of technological innovation, specializing in operational testing that surpasses speeds of Mach

5. Our Talon testbeds are engineered for air-launch capabilities, offering a reusable and cost-effective means to access hypersonic environments. We collect essential flight data to validate system performance and accelerate the deployment of advanced technologies, working closely with our clients to bolster national security efforts.

We are seeking a Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) to manage the quality of products and processes at supplier facilities. This role will involve overseeing supplier qualifications, development, and performance, necessitating significant travel to supplier sites for audits, resolution of quality issues, and initiatives aimed at continuous improvement within the supply chain.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Collaborate with the Supplier Management team to shape sourcing strategies and set priorities effectively.
• Partner with Program Management, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Mission Operations teams to meet project goals.
• Provide valuable insights during quality planning and product development, ensuring that quality needs are represented while working with suppliers.
• Recommend investments and resources aimed at improving manufacturing and assembly quality and efficiency.
• Conduct thorough audits and assessments of suppliers to verify adherence to Stratolaunch standards and aerospace quality regulations, including AS9100.
• Lead investigations into supplier nonconformances and manage supplier corrective action requests (SCARs) to ensure compliance.
• Work closely with suppliers to implement process improvements and preventive measures.
• Facilitate effective communication between suppliers and internal teams regarding quality expectations and requirements.
• Ensure that suppliers maintain the necessary documentation for quality assurance and regulatory compliance.
• Oversee or perform supplier source inspections as needed, including the development of sampling and inspection plans.
• Review and approve supplier quality plans and first article inspection (FAI) reports to ensure compliance with standards.
• Travel to supplier locations to evaluate performance and address any quality-related challenges.
• Maintain professionalism, integrity, and a strong commitment in all interactions within the workplace.

Requirements

• Knowledge of quality management systems, such as ISO 9001, AS9100, or IATF 16949.
• Experience with quality improvement and assurance methodologies, including MSA, APQP, and CAPA.
• Proven background in managing and developing supplier quality, with experience in collaborating with external vendors.
• Familiarity with aerospace industry standards and regulations.
• Ability to work autonomously and prioritize tasks in alignment with business goals.
• Adaptability to quickly changing priorities and environments.

Nice to have

• Experience with statistical analysis software, such as Minitab or similar tools.
• Familiarity with Lean and Six Sigma methodologies for process improvement.
• Previous experience in a role that required significant travel to supplier locations.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Practical notes

• This position is based in Mojave, CA, with the possibility of a hybrid work arrangement for exceptionally qualified candidates located in Southern California.
• The role entails considerable interaction on the shop floor with various teams, including Materials and Processes, Manufacturing, Engineering, and Program Management.
• Expect to travel extensively (up to 50% or more) to visit manufacturing vendors and assess their performance.

Stratolaunch offers a competitive salary package that reflects individual qualifications and experience. Compensation for this role ranges from $102,000 to $186,000, depending on the level of experience and education. Benefits include a 9/80 work schedule, comprehensive healthcare coverage (medical, dental, vision, and prescription drugs), paid maternity and parental leave, a 401(k) plan with a 50% company match up to $11,500, and tuition reimbursement opportunities.

Stratolaunch is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds and experiences, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.

About the company

High-speed flight test services form the core work of this American aerospace team. Company roots trace to 2011, created by Paul Allen and Burt Rutan to explore air-launched space transport. Home base is Seattle. Earlier collaboration on SpaceShipOne informed the project. New ownership arrived in 2019 through Cerberus Capital Management. Funding remains private. Operations follow a non-traditional defense contractor model, focusing on test missions and system development under continued private investment.