Sr QA Engineer

General Dynamics - Saco, ME

Full-time - Mid Level

Saco, ME

Transportation Equipment Manufacturing

About the position

The Sr QA Engineer at General Dynamics Armament Systems Inc is responsible for developing and implementing methods and procedures for process control, process improvement, testing, and inspection to ensure that products are free of flaws and function as designed. This role involves designing and installing sophisticated testing equipment, performing product testing and analysis to maintain quality levels, and minimizing defects and failure rates. The engineer will analyze reports and defective products to determine trends and recommend corrective actions. Collaboration with supplier representatives on quality problems is essential, ensuring that effective corrective actions are implemented and contributing to supplier quality improvement programs. In this position, the Sr QA Engineer will establish quality standards for products and processes, suggesting modifications to prevent defects in components or final products. The role requires close collaboration with cross-functional teams, including product design, product management, and production, to identify and mitigate quality risks. The engineer will conduct audits of production processes, raw materials, or suppliers/vendors to ensure compliance with established quality standards. Additionally, the engineer may be responsible for ensuring compliance with formal external quality standards, such as ISO 9001, and conducting root cause analysis for defects, non-conformities, or other quality failures.

Responsibilities

• Establish quality standards for products and processes and suggest modifications to prevent defects.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams to identify and mitigate quality risks.
• Audit production processes, raw materials, or suppliers/vendors to ensure quality standards are met.
• Conduct root cause analysis for defects, non-conformities, or other quality failures.
• Ensure compliance with formal external quality standards, such as ISO 9001.

Requirements

• Associates Degree and/or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.
• 5-7 years experience in a relevant function.
• In-depth knowledge of Quality Management Systems (QMS) such as ISO 9001, AS9100, or equivalent standards.
• Proficiency in quality planning, control, assurance, PFMEA, and continuous improvement.
• Expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, or other process improvement methodologies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis tools and techniques, including Statistical Process Control (SPC).
• Experience with root cause analysis methodologies (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagram).
• Ability to implement effective corrective and preventive actions.
• Knowledge of various testing, inspection, and validation methods.
• Experience in designing and overseeing testing protocols to ensure product quality.
• Familiarity with relevant industry standards and regulatory requirements including Mil-Std and ASME standards.
• Ability to ensure compliance and prepare for internal and external audits.
• Skills in supplier evaluation, auditing, and performance management.
• Experience developing and implementing supplier improvement plans.
• Proficiency in maintaining detailed and accurate quality records and documentation.
• Experience in generating and presenting quality reports to stakeholders.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with cross-functional teams, management, and external stakeholders.
• Familiarity with quality engineering software and tools (e.g., Minitab, QDA, SPC software).
• Ability to interpret technical drawings (GD&T), specifications, and standards.
• Ability to adapt to changing environments and requirements.
• Willingness to stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in quality engineering.
• Knowledge of process capability studies, DOE, and Gage R&R.
• Proficient in MS Office (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint).