Quality Engineer (QE) – Special Processes (Thermal Spray, Chemical Processing, Coding)

About the Role

Our Client is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Quality Engineer (QE) specializing in special processes including thermal spray, chemical processing, and coating/coding applications. This role will play a critical part in ensuring compliance with Nadcap (NACAP), ISO, and AS (Aerospace Standards) while driving continuous improvement across manufacturing and quality systems.

This is an ideal opportunity for a quality professional with a strong background in aerospace or high-spec manufacturing environments who thrives in a regulated, process-driven setting.

Key Responsibilities

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with Nadcap, ISO 9001, and AS9100
• Lead and support internal, customer, and third-party audits (including Nadcap audits)
• Maintain and improve Quality Management System (QMS) documentation and procedures
• Interpret customer specifications and translate them into internal quality requirements

Special Process Oversight

• Provide technical quality support for:
  • Thermal spray processes
  • Chemical processing (plating, anodizing, passivation, etc.)
  • Coating/coding processes (protective and functional coatings)
• Validate and approve process controls, work instructions, and specifications
• Monitor process capability and implement corrective/preventive actions (CAPA)

Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement

• Lead root cause analysis using tools such as 8D, Fishbone, and 5 Whys
• Drive corrective actions to closure and verify effectiveness
• Partner with engineering and operations to improve process performance and reduce defects

Supplier Quality

• Evaluate and monitor suppliers performing special processes
• Support supplier audits and qualifications
• Ensure flow-down of customer and regulatory requirements

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain inspection records, certifications, and compliance documentation
• Support First Article Inspections (FAI) per AS9102
• Prepare quality reports and KPIs for leadership

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 7+ years of experience in quality engineering within aerospace or regulated manufacturing
• Strong knowledge of:
  • Special processes (thermal spray, chemical processing, coatings)
  • Nadcap requirements
  • ISO and AS quality standards
• Experience with audits (internal, external, Nadcap)
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills

Preferred

• Experience with Nadcap special process accreditation
• Certification such as ASQ CQE (Certified Quality Engineer)
• Familiarity with GD&T and blueprint reading
• Experience with ERP/MES systems

Key Skills

• Attention to detail and process discipline
• Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration
• Data-driven decision making
• Ability to work in fast-paced, high-compliance environments

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary (based on experience)
• Performance-based bonuses
• Health, dental, vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays