Process Owner Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

This opportunity is located within our Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company business, a global leader of mission-critical hardware and systems solutions including precision energetics systems and innovative explosive solutions.Click here to learn more.

Job Description

Reports to: Manager, Business Process Engineering

The Business Process Engineer is responsible for analyzing, evaluating, and improving business processes to enhance operational effectiveness, quality, compliance, and overall performance. This role identifies process gaps and systemic issues, applies structured problem-solving methodologies, and develops action plans to redesign, implement, and monitor sustainable process improvements.

The Business Process Engineer works closely with Process Owners, Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), Quality, Operations, and other cross-functional stakeholders to strengthen the Quality Management System (QMS), ensure compliance with applicable quality standards and government regulations, and drive a culture of continuous improvement.

• Support Business Process Engineering initiatives and the successful execution of Quality Management System (QMS) audits.
• Analyze historical audit findings and trends to identify systemic root causes and implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Support organizational readiness for customer, registrar, surveillance, and recertification audits with the goal of minimizing repeat and major findings.
• Lead internal AS9100 audits for assigned processes and support customer and registrar audits as required.
• Develop and coordinate Root Cause and Corrective Action (RCCA) responses for process escapes and audit findings.
• Provide guidance on the interpretation and application of quality standards, regulatory requirements, and internal QMS requirements.

• Oversee audit Nonconformance Report (NCR) and Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) activities to ensure timely, effective, and sustainable closure.
• Facilitate structured problem-solving activities with Process Owners and SMEs to identify true root causes and prevent recurrence.
• Evaluate corrective actions for effectiveness and alignment with Company QMS requirements.
• Monitor open actions, escalate risks or delays as appropriate, and drive accountability for closure.
• Analyze recurring issues and process trends to identify opportunities for systemic improvement.
• Partner cross-functionally to strengthen process controls and reduce the likelihood of future escapes.

• Conduct gap analyses to identify opportunities to improve process performance, compliance, efficiency, and effectiveness.
• Apply modern quality and continuous improvement principles, including Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, process variation management, and mistake-proofing techniques.
• Lead or support improvement initiatives focused on reducing waste, variation, defects, and cost while improving product and service quality.
• Evaluate current-state processes and develop Future Mode of Operation (FMO) solutions that improve business performance.
• Establish meaningful process metrics and performance indicators to measure effectiveness and sustain improvements.

• Provide training, coaching, and mentorship to Business Process Engineers, Process Owners, SMEs, and other personnel as needed.
• Develop and maintain tools for measuring business process performance and identifying opportunities for continued improvement.
• Define and maintain process training and competency requirements.
• Develop, maintain, and improve business procedures, work instructions, scripts, and related process documentation.
• Support change management activities and effectively communicate process changes throughout the organization.
• Promote consistent application of business processes and continuous improvement practices across functions.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in engineering, science, or a related technical discipline; Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering field is preferred.
• Equivalent combinations of education and relevant professional experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 5 years of related experience, preferably within the Aerospace & Defense industry.

• Strong understanding of Continuous Improvement and Lean Manufacturing principles and practices.
• Demonstrated structured problem-solving, root cause analysis, and corrective action skills.
• Working knowledge of AS9100 Rev. D and Quality Management System requirements.
• Strong understanding of ERP/MRP systems and their relationship to business and manufacturing processes.
• Understanding of Present Mode of Operation (PMO) and Future Mode of Operation (FMO) concepts.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and collaboration tools, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Project, and Teams.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English, with the ability to communicate effectively across organizational levels.
• Demonstrated ability to work with senior-level leaders and decision-makers.
• Ability to influence and facilitate cross-functional teams without direct authority.
• Ability to travel as business needs require.

• Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
• ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE), or equivalent certification.
• Internal Auditor or Lead Auditor certification.
• Experience facilitating or leading Kaizen events and other structured continuous improvement activities.
• Experience working within military, aerospace, or other highly regulated quality systems.
• Significant experience working directly with customers and suppliers.
• Experience developing process metrics, dashboards, and performance management systems.

The anticipated salary range for this position is $100,000-$140,000 per year. Actual compensation will be determined based on the successful candidate's education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with relevant market data.

Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.