Supplier Quality Engineer

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used across defense, national security, and public safety missions. We are building a new center of engineering excellence to design our new category of tactical robotic systems and the industrial capacity to deliver them, bringing decisive airpower into the hands of every operator. We are not here to make promises; we are here to deliver real systems with real capabilities for real missions.  
 
You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility and focus. We design and produce multi-mission aerial systems that operators trust to perform in real-world conditions, reliably, repeatedly, and at scale. Our approach is grounded in operator-centered design, rapid iteration from field use, and U.S.-based manufacturing. We operate by a clear set of values: Mission First, Aim Farther, Own It, Win Together. This is how we build advantage and how we help protect our service members, our communities, and our country. 

What You’ll Do

• Support the continued development and performance of PDW’s emerging aerospace supplier base ensuring the integrity of purchased products.
• Own the execution and recommend improvements to PDW’s established supplier qualification process.
• Manage PDW’s approved supplier list, ensuring that suppliers meet minimum company requirements.
• Partner directly with suppliers and PDW’s Supply Chain, Engineering and Quality Assurance teams.
• Manage the company’s supplier risk matrix and all associated supplier quality and performance metrics.
• Lead monthly performance reviews with critical suppliers, including review of supplier quality and delivery metrics.
• Manage the supplier corrective action program, document supplier quality events, and report nonconformances to PDW management and supplier points of contact.
• Play a key role in supplier first article and capability studies, ensuring appropriate control plans and testing strategies are in place, and PDW engineering requirements are met.
• Conduct onsite supplier visits to strengthen relationships and perform supplier quality system audits as needed.
• Prepare and maintain records of inspection results, audit findings, metrics, and other quality data, and provide periodic reports to management.

Requirements

• 3-5 years of related supplier quality, manufacturing quality, or quality engineering experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing, quality, or a related technical field, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Experience managing supplier qualification processes and an Approved Supplier List.
• Experience independently conducting supplier quality system audits and source inspections.
• Strong critical thinking, leadership, and time management skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with team members, stakeholders, and suppliers.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze inspection and test data, identify trends and systemic issues, and develop appropriate corrective actions.
• Thorough knowledge of ISO 9001 and AS9100 quality management system requirements.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation.
• Ability to analyze inspection and test data and prepare supplier quality event reports for suppliers and management.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and relevant quality management and reporting tools.
• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret security clearance or higher, as required.

Preferred

• Master's degree in related field.
• ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) certification.
• Certification or formal training as a Lead Auditor (e.g. ISO 9001, ISO 14001, or equivalent standard).
• Experience with Quality Management System (eQMS) platforms (e.g. ETQ Reliance, MasterControl, Arena, TrackWise, etc).

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 50 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment as well as manufacturing and test equipment, industrial computers, HMIs, and handheld diagnostic tools. Must be physically capable of walking production floors, accessing equipment in constrained spaces, participating in factory acceptance testing, and supporting on-site system deployments.

Work Environment

This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment, and may require occasional domestic and international travel as needed, approximately 10-25%. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross departmental collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities. Standard works hours for this position are 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, with occasional overtime as operational needs demand.

Benefits 

PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company. 
• Safe Harbor 401(k) with company match. 
• Paid Parental Leave. 
• On-site gym at Huntsville, AL & Denver, CO locations. 
• Employer provided life insurance. 
• Robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP). 
• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation. 
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options. 

EEO Statement 

PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.