Software Engineer Contract Jobs in Ellsworth, ME

Job Summary:

Our client, a growing manufacturer that develops hardware and software for the defense industry, is looking for an experienced Quality Engineer. It's a critical role in ensuring that products meet the highest quality standards. This individual will be responsible for developing and implementing/validating quality processes, conducting inspections, internal audits, corrective and preventive actions, analyzing data and trends to improve processes, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance with industry standards and customer requirements.

We are seeking a strong background in DoD compliance, DCMA processes, MIL-STD requirements, and a team member ready to thrive in a regulated mission-critical industry. In this role you will support quality assurance across the entire product lifecycle.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Ensure compliance with MIL-STD, DFARS, and customer contract quality clauses.
• Act as primary liaison with DCMA and defense customers for inspections, audits, and compliance reviews.
• Maintain and continuously improve our Quality Management System (QMS) aligned with ISO 9001, and internal policies.
• Facilitate root cause analysis and lead effective corrective and preventive actions using 8D, 5-Why, Fishbone, and other tools.
• Interpret GD&T and engineering drawings for inspections and process control.
• Conduct internal audits and support supplier quality initiatives.
• Develop and implement quality control processes, procedures, and standards to ensure that products meet or exceed customer expectations.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement preventive actions to reduce defects and improve product quality.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of inspections, tests, and quality audits. Prepare quality reports and communicate findings to relevant stakeholders.
• Investigate and analyze quality issues, determine root causes, and work with cross-functional teams to develop and implement corrective actions and preventive actions.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations, company policies, and customer requirements. Participate in internal and external audits as needed.
• Collaborate with suppliers to ensure that incoming materials meet quality standards. Conduct supplier audits and work with suppliers to resolve quality issues.
• Provide training to production and quality assurance staff on quality standards, procedures, and best practices.
• Verifying the product/machine validations are correct, properly documented and the correct steps were taken to validate the product.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality Assurance, or a related field.
• 5+ years of quality leadership experience in a DoD, aerospace manufacturing environment, or related
• Extensive knowledge of DCMA processes, MIL-STD, and defense contract compliance
• ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), Certified Quality Auditor (CQA), Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB), or similar certifications preferred.
• Proven success working in QMS frameworks and achieving regulatory certifications and audit approvals
• Strong understanding of GD&T, root cause tools (e.g., 8D, 5-Why), and quality control methodologies.
• Proficient in using quality inspection equipment and software. (Microsoft Office, Minitab, data analytics, eQMS databases, etc)
• Strong understanding of quality control methodologies and tools (e.g., Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, SPC, FMEA, APQP, PPAP, etc)
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Familiarity with quality standards such as ISO 9001, ISO/TS 16949, ISO 13485, AS9100, or MIL-STD-810.
• Must be a US Citizen