The Kinetic Group is a world leader in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of small caliber ammunition under the iconic brands B&P, CCI, Federal Premium, Fiocchi, HEVI-Shot, Remington and Speer. We have domestic ammunition manufacturing facilities in Minnesota, Idaho, Arkansas, and Missouri, and service law enforcement, government agencies and sporting enthusiasts throughout the world. Today, The Kinetic Group is a part of the Ammo+ division of The Czechoslovak Group (CSG), which holds a diverse portfolio of companies in the defense, security, automotive, aerospace and rail industries.
The Quality Engineer provides proactive, hands-on Quality Engineering support to ensure the highest levels of product safety, reliability, and consistency in high-volume ammunition manufacturing. Drive continuous improvement in processes, systems, and supplier performance while supporting compliance with regulatory, customer, and internal standards.
This position reports to the Quality and Ballistics Manager and is based out of our Lonoke, Arkansas office.
What you’ll do:
Process Improvement: Perform capability studies, gauge R&R/MSA, and DOEs to reduce variation in ammunition components (primers, powder, cases, projectiles); implement automated inspection and process enhancements with production and vendors.
Quality Leadership: Lead or support DMAIC/Six Sigma projects, root cause investigations, and Kaizen events to improve product quality, yield, and reduce defects/scrap in high-speed production lines.
QMS Support: Maintain and enhance ISO 9001:2015-compliant Quality Management System; conduct/support internal audits, CAPA, and provide direction to Quality Auditors/Inspectors.
Design & New Product Quality: Collaborate on new product teams to ensure manufacturability, inspectability, and safety; lead critical characteristics classification.
Supplier Quality: Flow down requirements to suppliers, perform audits/validations, and drive incoming material improvements for brass, primers, powder, etc.
Capital & Equipment Support: Provide quality input on capital projects (concept to validation); lead post-installation capability assessments and audits.
Measurement & Data Analysis: Specify/validate inspection equipment; develop quality data systems; analyze production data statistically and deliver actionable reports/dashboards on key metrics (e.g., defect rates, first-pass yield).
Experience you bring:
Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering (BSIE), Mechanical Engineering (BSME), or related field from an accredited university (or equivalent experience).
1-3 years of progressive Quality Engineering experience in high-volume manufacturing (ammunition, firearms, explosives, or precision products preferred).
Hands-on knowledge of SPC, DOE, root cause analysis (8D/5-Why/Fishbone), PFMEA, control plans, and Lean/Six Sigma tools.
Strong organizational, communication, problem-solving, project management, and teamwork skills.
Ability to excel in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with minimal supervision.
Proficient in Microsoft Office; experience with Minitab, Power BI, or similar statistical/data tools preferred.
Ability to comply with facility safety protocols (including hazardous/explosive materials) and pass required background checks.
You might have:
ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA), or Certified Quality Auditor (CQA).
Lean/Six Sigma Green Belt or higher.
Knowledge of ammunition processes, ballistics, SAAMI standards, or firearms/hunting industry.
Experience with ERP/QMS software (e.g., IQMS, EtQ) or automated data collection.
Work Environment:
Employee work assignments may include tasks working with and/or exposure to potentially hazardous areas, including flammables and explosives. Safety training is provided to all employees to ensure compliance with company and federal regulations.
Pay Range:
$68,200.00 - $95,400.00The actual annual salary offered to a candidate will be based on variables including experience, geographic location, education, and skills/achievements, and will be mutually agreed upon at the time of offer.
We offer a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits including: medical and dental, vision, disability and life insurance, 401K, PTO, tuition reimbursement, gear discounts and the ability to add value to an exciting mission!
Our Postings are not intended for distribution to or use in any jurisdiction, country or territory where such distribution or use would violate local law or would subject us to any regulations in another jurisdiction, country or territory. We reserve the right to limit our Postings in any jurisdiction, country or territory.
Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Females/Protected Veteran/Disabled
Top Skills
What We Do
Vista Outdoor is a leading global designer, manufacturer, and marketer of outdoor recreation and shooting sports products. We operate through two reportable segments: Shooting Sports and Outdoor Products. Together, our segments serve the outdoor sports and recreation markets through a diverse portfolio of well-recognized brands that provide consumers with a wide range of performance-driven, high-quality and innovative products. Brands include Remington Ammunition, Bushnell, CamelBak, Bushnell Golf, Bell Helmets, Camp Chef, Giro, QuietKat, Federal Ammunition and more. Vista Outdoor products are sold at leading retailers and distributors across North America and worldwide.







