Quality Control Manager

Position Summary

FlightWave (FW) Aerospace, a wholly owned subsidiary of Red Cat Holdings, is looking to fill an immediate position as a full-time Quality Control Manager. FW is a rapidly growing technology company focused on creating world-class system solutions serving a broad range of applications forth design and development of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS drones) for use in defense, public safety, and other government security organizations

As the Quality Control Manager, you’ll own the full quality lifecycle from incoming inspections through in-line controls, and end-of-line validation. The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience with sUAS platforms, a deep understanding of regulatory compliance (FAA, FCC, ITAR, AS9100), and the ability to lead both tactical testing and strategic quality initiatives. This role is critical to ensure FW’s drones are safe, high-performing, and compliant with government and defense standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all Quality Control operations, including Receiving Inspection, In-Process Inspection, Flight Operations Quality verification, and End-of-Line inspections for UAV systems and assemblies.
• Ensure all incoming materials, subassemblies, and finished goods are inspected and released in accordance with engineering drawings, specifications, work instructions, and quality requirements.
• Oversee in-process inspection activities on the production floor, ensuring manufacturing processes are executed correctly and product conformity is maintained throughout the build process.
• Provide quality oversight during Flight Operations, including inspections supporting maiden flights, flight acceptance testing, and operational readiness verification of UAV systems.
• Manage final inspection and end-of-line verification activities to ensure completed systems meet configuration, engineering, and quality requirements prior to shipment or operational use.
• Develop and maintain inspection plans, checklists, and acceptance criteria for components, assemblies, and completed UAV systems.
• Own and manage the Material Review Board (MRB) process
• Ensure proper material control processes for nonconforming product, including segregation, identification, and tracking in accordance with AS9100 requirements.
• Manage the calibration program for inspection and test equipment, ensuring measurement devices are maintained, calibrated, and traceable to recognized standards.
• Support Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) activities by identifying recurring quality issues and verifying the effectiveness of implemented solutions.
• Work closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain teams to interpret drawings, specifications, and product requirements to ensure appropriate inspection coverage.
• Monitor and analyze inspection data and quality metrics to identify trends, prevent escapes, and drive improvements in manufacturing quality performance.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and training programs related to inspection, product verification, MRB processing, and calibration management.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team ensuring high standards of workmanship, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Promote a culture of quality within production operations, ensuring inspection teams act as partners to manufacturing while maintaining strict adherence to product and regulatory requirements.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality, or a related field, or 8+ years of experience in quality roles, including at least 3 years in a leadership position.
• Hands-on experience with incoming, in-line, and end-of-line quality systems
• Strong reporting and documentation skills
• Understanding of the software and product development lifecycle
• Working knowledge of AS9100, ISO9001, ITAR, and FAA compliance
• Willingness to travel to supplier and contract manufacturing sites
• Familiar with and used various skills such as RCFA, Fishbone diagram, 5 Whys, & DMAIC

Additional Desired Qualifications

• FAA Part 107 certification
• Experience in the drone, aerospace, or defense industries
• Certifications such as Six Sigma, CQE, or Lean Manufacturing
• Prior work with government contracts or DoD programs

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Occasional extended hours or weekend work may be required
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects weighing up to 50 pounds or more with or without assistance.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, crouching, and reaching throughout the workday.
• Comfortable working in a warehouse environment with varying temperatures, moderate noise levels, and frequent exposure to moving equipment and heavy materials.
• Ability to safely work around hazardous materials and follow all applicable health and safety procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Background Check

This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.

EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure

Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.

E-Verify

The company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.

Compensation: $110k – $137k, plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses.