Metallic Test Lab & SPTC Focal

Accountabilities:

Lead the certification, recertification, and reinstatement of Certified Materials Test Laboratories (CMTLs) in accordance with the S-SPEC-35 (aeDMS S400) requirements.
Develop and implement supplier quality strategies for metallic materials testing laboratories, ensuring alignment with business objectives and aerospace quality standards.
Act as a senior Supplier Quality Engineering (SQE) specialist and primary point of contact for suppliers and internal stakeholders on S-SPEC-35 certification and laboratory quality matters.
Collaborate with the S-SPEC-35 Focal to assess laboratory capabilities, support supplier strategy development, and provide recommendations for leadership decisions involving safety, quality, and operational performance.
Conduct regular laboratory audits and system assessments in collaboration with process experts to verify compliance with S-SPEC-35, ISO/IEC 17025, internal testing specifications, and applicable regulatory requirements.
Oversee laboratory quality performance, including certification scope and GT193 requirements, ensuring testing capabilities meet approved technical standards.
Lead root cause analysis and corrective action initiatives to address audit findings, failed proficiency tests, and laboratory performance issues.
Select and qualify laboratories through the S-SPEC-35 certification process, ensuring their technical capabilities and quality systems meet established requirements.
Monitor proficiency testing results and work with relevant stakeholders to identify improvement opportunities and strengthen laboratory performance.
Manage assigned laboratory audits, maintain audit documentation and AI audit checksheets, and develop improvement plans where necessary.
Coordinate with Lab Control Program (LCP) administrators, materials engineering specialists, and Principal Quality Engineers (PQEs) to ensure laboratory results comply with approved testing requirements and specifications.
Provide technical guidance and mentorship to members of the Forgings and Materials Supplier Quality team, sharing expertise and promoting best practices.
Advise forging and materials sourcing and operations teams on quality-related disruptions, delivery risks, and cost implications associated with laboratory testing and supplier selection.
Evaluate complex technical and operational challenges, assess information from multiple internal and external sources, and recommend effective solutions.
Contribute to the development of laboratory quality policies, strategies, and improvement programs while influencing decisions within the assigned area of responsibility.
Stay informed about industry developments, testing technologies, regulatory requirements, and emerging best practices to continuously improve laboratory quality processes.
Requirements:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, combined with at least 5 years of experience in Sourcing and Supplier Quality Engineering.
Alternatively, a high school diploma or GED combined with a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in Sourcing and Supplier Quality Engineering.
Strong expertise in metallic materials testing, including mechanical testing, chemical analysis, metallography, and hardness testing.
Demonstrated experience in supplier quality engineering, laboratory quality management, supplier assessments, or materials testing environments.
Knowledge of S-SPEC-35 certification requirements and familiarity with ISO/IEC 17025 laboratory accreditation standards is highly desirable.
Understanding of aerospace materials testing specifications, laboratory quality systems, and applicable regulatory requirements.
Experience conducting laboratory audits, evaluating technical capabilities, and managing supplier certification processes.
Proven ability to lead root cause investigations, corrective actions, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to evaluate complex technical information and make sound, evidence-based decisions.
Demonstrated experience leading quality programs, projects, or cross-functional initiatives.
Established project management skills, including the ability to document, plan, coordinate, and execute improvement programs.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to different stakeholders.
Strong interpersonal, leadership, and influencing skills, including the ability to build effective relationships with suppliers and internal teams.
Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and manage complex challenges outside established procedures.
Experience mentoring colleagues and providing technical guidance to less experienced team members.
Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize multiple assignments while maintaining high quality standards.
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States. No relocation assistance is provided for this position.
Benefits:
Competitive annual base salary ranging from $116,000 to $154,000, depending on experience, education, qualifications, and work location.
Eligibility for a performance-based bonus or variable incentive plan.
Comprehensive healthcare coverage, including medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug insurance.
Access to health coaching and wellness programs supporting physical, emotional, financial, and social wellbeing.
Employee Assistance Program offering confidential 24/7 assessment, counseling, and referral services.
Retirement savings plan through a 401(k) program, including company matching and additional retirement contributions.
Access to financial planning resources and professional retirement consultants.
Tuition assistance to support continued education and professional development.
Adoption assistance.
Paid parental leave.
Disability insurance and life insurance.
Paid time off for vacation and illness.
Fully remote working arrangement within the United States.
Opportunities for professional development, technical advancement, and career growth.
Exposure to advanced aerospace technologies and complex international supplier quality operations.
Opportunity to contribute to aviation safety, manufacturing excellence, and the continuous improvement of aerospace materials and processes.