CalTek is a Los Angeles engineering and manufacturing staffing agency with a specialty in recruiting talent for advanced manufacturing industries. Our client is a global leader in advanced manufacturing for aviation and defense, specializing in the development of commercial and military aircraft engines, avionics systems, electric power systems for aircraft, and MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) services. Operating in a highly regulated, AS9100- and ISO 9001-certified environment, this company delivers mission-critical products and services that meet the most demanding quality and safety standards. To strengthen their compliance and continuous improvement initiatives, they are seeking a Quality Auditor with 2–5 years of experience in aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing industries.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
- Perform internal quality audits in compliance with AS9100, ISO 9001, NADCAP, FAA, and DoD standards.
- Conduct process, product, and system audits to ensure adherence to customer, regulatory, and contractual requirements.
- Prepare, document, and report audit findings, nonconformances, and corrective action requests (CARs).
- Collaborate with quality assurance, engineering, production, and supply chain teams to resolve audit findings and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
- Ensure compliance with FAR (Federal Aviation Regulations), EASA Part 145, and ITAR export compliance requirements.
- Support supplier audits and vendor quality assessments, ensuring that subcontractors meet aerospace and defense requirements.
- Utilize audit management tools, QMS software, and ERP/MRP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or Plex to document and track audit results.
- Participate in Root Cause Analysis (RCA), Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA), and Risk Management (FMEA, PFMEA).
- Verify calibration and maintenance records for inspection and test equipment (CMMs, gages, measurement systems).
- Support readiness for customer, regulatory, and third-party audits (FAA, DoD, OEM, and certification bodies).
- Provide input for training programs, audit schedules, and continuous improvement projects under Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Quality, Engineering, Manufacturing, or related technical field preferred.
- Equivalent combination of education and professional experience considered.
Required Skills and Experience
- 2–5 years of experience in quality auditing or quality assurance within aviation, defense, aerospace, or advanced manufacturing.
- Strong knowledge of AS9100, ISO 9001, and NADCAP quality management systems.
- Familiarity with FAA, EASA, DoD, and ITAR compliance requirements.
- Proficiency with audit tools and documentation systems (Microsoft Office, QMS software, ERP/MRP platforms such as SAP, Oracle, or Plex).
- Experience with root cause analysis, CAPA, and nonconformance reporting (NCRs).
- Solid understanding of manufacturing processes, inspection techniques, and quality systems auditing.
- Excellent communication, report writing, and presentation skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- ASQ Certified Quality Auditor (CQA), Certified Internal Auditor, or equivalent certification.
- Experience supporting supplier audits, vendor quality management, and subcontractor assessments.
- Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Continuous Improvement methodologies.
- Working knowledge of advanced inspection equipment (CMM, vision systems, gages, calipers).
- Prior experience in aviation or defense OEM or MRO environments.
- Exposure to DFARS, MIL-STD quality standards, and aerospace-specific requirements.
