Lead Quality Engineer - Aerospace & Defense Composites

Company: Approach Venture
Location: Torrance
Posted on: February 15, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Lead Quality Engineer – Build AS9100 Systems for a Fast-Growing Defense Manufacturing Startup! Torrance, CA | On-site Opportunity Summary A rapidly scaling seed-stage defense technology startup is seeking a Lead Quality Engineer to design, implement, and own its quality management system as production ramps across advanced composite manufacturing lines. With active government contracts already underway, the company is moving quickly from prototype builds into rate-ready production and needs a hands-on quality leader to establish AS9100-compliant processes, drive continuous improvement, and ensure flawless execution across manufacturing, suppliers, and product delivery. In this role, you will build quality infrastructure from the ground up — defining procedures, leading audits, improving yields, and embedding a culture of accountability and precision throughout the organization. If you thrive in fast-moving environments, enjoy creating scalable systems, and want to shape quality for mission-critical defense hardware, this role offers significant ownership and long-term growth. About Us We are an early-stage defense engineering company developing breakthrough manufacturing technologies that dramatically accelerate production of high-performance composite structures. Our proprietary processes enable faster throughput, higher structural reliability, and lower cost for critical aerospace and national security applications. With strong customer traction and expanding programs, we are building a world-class production operation rooted in precision, compliance, and continuous improvement. Job Duties Lead development, implementation, and ongoing ownership of the AS9100-compliant Quality Management System (QMS) Establish quality procedures, work instructions, control plans, and documentation for scalable production Prepare for and manage internal audits, external audits, and certification processes Drive root cause analysis, corrective and preventive actions (CAPA), and continuous improvement initiatives Own First Article Inspections (FAI), SPC programs, and process qualification activities Partner with manufacturing, engineering, and operations teams to embed quality into every stage of production Develop inspection methodologies, sampling plans, and acceptance criteria for composite hardware Lead MRB processes, nonconformance investigations, and production risk mitigation Track key quality metrics including yield, scrap, rework, and supplier performance Qualify, audit, and manage suppliers to ensure compliance and reliability Train teams on quality standards, documentation discipline, and best practices Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, or a related field (or equivalent experience) 5 years of quality engineering or manufacturing quality experience in regulated environments Direct hands-on experience implementing or maintaining AS9100 quality systems Strong knowledge of audit preparation, compliance documentation, and process control Experience supporting hardware from development through full-rate production Proficiency with root cause methodologies, CAPA, SPC, and continuous improvement tools Ability to work cross-functionally in fast-paced startup environments Preferred Experience Background in aerospace, defense, advanced manufacturing, or composite production Experience standing up quality systems from early-stage or pre-certification environments Familiarity with ISO 9001, NADCAP, or high-reliability manufacturing standards Supplier quality management and audit experience Exposure to production scaling environments with rapid growth Growth Opportunities Build and scale the company’s full quality organization as production expands Lead future certification efforts and advanced compliance programs Drive automation and digital quality tracking systems Establish long-term supplier quality frameworks Mentor junior quality engineers and technicians Why Join Us Foundational quality leadership role at a high-growth defense startup with active programs Opportunity to build AS9100 systems from the ground up Direct impact on mission-critical hardware production Rapid career growth as manufacturing scales 401(k) with employer match Medical, dental, and vision coverage Equity in a fast-growing hardware company Compensation Details $120,000 – $180,000

Keywords: Approach Venture, Poway , Lead Quality Engineer - Aerospace & Defense Composites, Engineering , Torrance, California