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 FUNCTIONS
Daily Quality Execution & Floor Leadership
Lead daily quality execution activities across Assembly, Test, and Receiving
Serve as the primary Quality point of contact for shop-floor issues and questions
Ensure work is performed in accordance with drawings, travelers, inspection plans, and procedures
Reinforce stop-the-line authority when quality or compliance is at risk
Plan & perform APQP processes per AS 9145
Develop processes, procedures, & work instructions for quality and or manufacturing
Nonconformance, Containment & Issue Response
Lead initial containment and disposition of nonconformances (NCRs)
Coordinate immediate corrective actions to protect production flow and customer deliveries
Support and drive root cause analysis (8D, A3, DMAIC) in partnership with other teams
Ensure corrective actions are implemented, verified, and sustained
Manufacturing, Engineering & Program Integration
Partner with Manufacturing to improve first-time-through yield and process adherence
Support Engineering with quality input on design changes, build readiness, and technical issues
Support Program Management with quality status, risks, and recovery actions
Ensure engineering changes are correctly implemented and verified on the floor
Inspection, FAI & Acceptance Oversight
Support and coordinate First Article Inspection (FAI) activities per AS9102
Ensure in-process and final inspections are executed correctly and on time
Review inspection results and escalate issues as required
Support build and test readiness decisions from a quality standpoint
Perform dimensional inspections using precision measurement tools in accordance with inspection plans and drawings
Verify GD&T requirements and dimensional tolerances
Supplier & Incoming Quality Support
Support receiving inspection and supplier quality activities
Assist with supplier nonconformance investigations and corrective actions (SCARs)
Ensure supplier quality issues are communicated clearly and resolved promptly
Assist supply chain management in supplier development & perform supplier audits
Metrics, Reporting & Communication
Track and communicate daily quality metrics (NCRs, escapes, yield, COPQ drivers)
Provide clear quality status updates to Operations, Programs, and Quality Management
Support quality inputs to tier meetings, MORs, and reviews
Identify trends and escalate systemic risks
Standards, Compliance & Discipline
Ensure compliance with AS9100D, internal procedures, and customer requirements
Support audits, customer visits, and compliance reviews
Reinforce disciplined execution of standard work and quality processes
Serve as a role model for quality culture and accountability
Partner with the QMS manager to create, train and incorporate process & procedures
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
Provides day-to-day work direction and mentoring to Inspectors and Quality Technicians
No formal performance-management authority unless delegated
Leads 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 & ABILITIES
Required
Strong hands-on experience in manufacturing quality execution
Working knowledge of AS9100D and aerospace quality practices
Experience with NCR, containment, and root cause analysis
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications
Strong communication and problem-solving skills
Ability to manage confidential and export-controlled information (ITAR)
Preferred
Experience in aerospace, defense, propulsion, or regulated manufacturing environments
Familiarity with AS9102 (FAI), PFMEA, and control plans
Experience leading shop-floor quality activities
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Required
Bacheloris degree in Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, or related discipline
(Equivalent experience may be considered)
5i8 years of experience in quality, manufacturing, or inspection roles
Demonstrated experience supporting production environments
Preferred
ASQ certification (CQE, CQT) or equivalent
Experience 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.
