Quality Program Manager

Job Description
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Quality Manager to join our team at the Louisville, Kentucky Naval weapons systems manufacturing site. In this critical role, you will be responsible for ensuring the quality of highly complex, low-rate products and you will play a critical role in supporting manufacturing and engineering operations by ensuring product and process quality meets rigorous standards. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of quality management systems and principles, with a proven ability to implement and improve quality in a challenging manufacturing environment.
Required Education, Experience, & Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 8+ years of progressive experience as a Quality Manager in a low-rate manufacturing environment, specifically supporting large weapon systems and structures.
• Demonstrated expertise in interpreting and applying ASME Y14.5 Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Experience with quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100) and internal/external audit processes.
• Proven experience with root cause analysis methodologies (e.g., 8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone diagrams) and CAPA implementation.
• Familiarity with statistical process control (SPC) and process capability analysis (CpK, PpK).
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
• Support internal and external audits (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100) and ensure compliance with relevant industry standards and customer requirements.
• Develop and deliver quality training to quality and manufacturing personnel on best practices, quality tools, and inspection techniques.
• Generate comprehensive quality reports, trend analysis, and performance metrics for higher level management review.

Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills

• Master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
• ASQ Certifications (e.g., CQE, CMQ/OE, CQA).
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Proficiency in Minitab or other statistical software.
• Lead a team of Quality Engineers ensuring alignment with quality policy, strategic objectives and organization goals that drive to Zero Defect plans and Strategy.
• Develops a highly capable quality engineering staff by recruiting, organizing and developing team
• Collaborate with value stream and program leadership for planning, execution, and management of critical business performance, process improvements, and other strategic initiatives
• Develop and implement program quality plans and procedures
• Support BOE development and delivery; collaborate on programmatic quality planning.
• Conduct thorough root cause analysis and implement effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) for non-conformances related to machining and build processes.
• Lead in-depth analysis of quality metrics and trends to identify systemic issues and improvement opportunities.
• Interpret complex engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T requirements to ensure product conformance and establish appropriate inspection methodologies.

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $120874 - $205486
Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience.
Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.
About BAE Systems Platforms & Services
BAE Systems, Inc. is a defense, aerospace, and security company headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, with more than 40,000 employees worldwide. We serve, supply, and protect those who protect us. As one of the most geographically diverse international defense companies, we deliver a full range of products and services spanning air, land, maritime, space, and cyber, including advanced electronics, intelligence solutions, and dedicated customer support.
Our culture is performance-driven and values-led, built on curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Purpose isn't a tagline here. It's what drives us. We're developing breakthrough technologies that defend national security and make a lasting impact on our communities and our planet. When you join BAE Systems, you're not just building a career. You're contributing to a mission that truly matters.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.