Defense Quality Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.

BladeWorks, Inc., is an engine assembly, instrumentation, and test facility within the Kratos Turbine Technologies division, launching in Bristow, Oklahoma to advance next-generation propulsion systems. This state-of-the-art operation brings together hands-on engine assembly and high-performance testing capabilities in a modern, purpose-designed environment. As one of the first team members, you\'ll help shape processes, culture, and innovation from the ground up. If you’re ready to join a fresh, ambitious, and fast-growing aerospace operation, BladeWorks is where your next chapter begins.

This role is restricted to U.S. citizenship with ability to obtain/maintain security clearance. BladeWorks will require proof of status prior to employment.

General Job Summary:

The Quality Manager is responsible for establishing, implementing, and managing all production quality systems at the BladeWorks engine assembly and test facility. This role will serve as the primary architect of shop floor quality processes, including development of TIPQA and TIPSFE workflows, creation of complete engine production quality procedures, and integration of systems with Costpoint as a key milestone for the first year. Working hands-on with production, engineering, and systems teams, this leader ensures all quality requirements are met or exceeded in a fast-paced, highly regulated aerospace environment.

Essential Job Functions:

• Build, implement, and manage all shop floor quality processes and standards for engine assembly and testing operations.
• Develop and deploy full TIPQA and TIPSFE quality workflows, including nonconformance management, corrective actions, inspection plans, and production quality gates.
• Lead the integration of TIPQA/TIPSFE with Costpoint (part tracking, serial number control, quality records, and process linkage).
• Build and maintain the Quality Management System (QMS) for production operations.
• Establish end-to-end quality documentation including procedures, work instructions, inspection criteria, and control plans for the production facility.
• Implement robust engine production quality processes aligned with AS9100, ISO 9001, customer requirements, and internal standards.
• Drive shop floor quality culture, ensuring consistent execution of quality expectations through daily engagement with assembly, instrumentation, and test technicians.
• Streamline nonconformance and defect reporting processes; reduce manual data entry and create automated workflows where practical.
• Lead root-cause analysis, corrective action, and preventive action activities for production issues.
• Work closely with engineering and manufacturing teams to ensure quality is embedded in build sequences, tooling, and design-for-quality practices.
• Create shop floor metrics for defect rates, rework, escapes, first-pass yield, process stability, and equipment compliance.
• Support readiness and compliance for internal, customer, and regulatory audits.
• Mentor and train technicians and leads on quality processes, inspection techniques, and documentation accuracy.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the shop floor using Lean, Six Sigma, and statistical methods.
• Other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibility: Yes, will lead quality team.

• Strong knowledge of AS9100, ISO 9001, and aerospace production quality systems.
• Experience implementing or managing TIPQA, TIPSFE, or similar manufacturing quality platforms.
• Experience with Costpoint or other ERP systems, including quality or manufacturing data integration.
• Proficiency with quality engineering tools such as FMEA, control plans, RCA, SPC, and APQP.
• Experience developing and maintaining manufacturing quality procedures in aerospace, defense, or high-reliability environments.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and inspection criteria.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and documentation skills.
• Strong communication and leadership abilities; comfortable working on shop floor daily.
• Continuous improvement mindset with a collaborative, hands-on approach.
• Experience with gas turbine or complex mechanical assembly operations preferred.
• NDT or special process exposure is a plus.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor\'s degree in Industrial, Manufacturing, Mechanical, or Quality Engineering, or equivalent experience.
• 6+ years in aerospace/defense production quality roles, preferably in engine or production environments.
• Experience managing quality inspection teams & supplier quality teams.

Work Environment/Physical Requirements:

• Office and manufacturing environment.
• Ability to stand, walk, and work on the shop floor for extended periods.
• Ability to perform repetitive motions (keyboarding, tools, instrumentation handling).
• Occasional lifting of components/equipment as required for inspections.

Work Location:

• Based in Bristow, Oklahoma, with close partnership and alignment with the Jupiter, FL facility.

Travel Requirements:

• Strong connection to Jupiter, FL facility – will be working onsite in Jupiter extensively during the first year of employment requiring travel.
• Travel to supplier & vendor facilities will be required.
• Estimated travel percentage: 25% - 40%
• Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Paid Time-Off (PTO)
• Holidays
• Education Reimbursement

Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race,color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as aprotected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.