Senior Principal Engineer Supplier Quality (Aerospace)

TL;DR

Senior Principal Engineer Supplier Quality (Aerospace): Ensuring aerospace and defense suppliers meet safety, performance, and regulatory standards with an accent on risk management, auditing, and process controls. Focus on driving supplier capabilities through structured quality systems, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement in high-risk programs.

Location: Remote (Must be based in the United States)

Salary: $117,500 – $176,300 USD

Company

A large-scale engineering and technology organization focusing on advanced aerospace and defense programs with national impact.

What you will do

• Lead supplier quality risk management by developing and implementing evaluation, monitoring, and control systems.
• Ensure compliance with contractual, regulatory, and technical requirements through audits and performance monitoring.
• Conduct product and process verification, including root cause analysis using tools like 8D, 5-Why, and Ishikawa.
• Oversee supplier quality planning across program phases, including new product introduction (NPI) and production readiness.
• Drive implementation of quality tools such as PFMEA, Control Plans, SPC, MSA, and capability studies.
• Manage supplier non-conformances and collaborate with procurement to develop sub-tier supplier oversight.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in STEM (Mechanical or Industrial preferred) with 8+ years of experience, or Master’s with 6+ years.
• U.S. citizenship required; ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance is preferred.
• Strong experience with ISO 9001 or AS9100 Quality Management Systems and AS9102 First Article Inspection (FAI).
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, specifications, and complex technical documentation.
• Experience leading supplier audits, production readiness reviews, and NPI activities.
• Knowledge of precision manufacturing (machining, casting, stamping) and NADCAP/PRI special process environments.

Nice to have

• Familiarity with APQP and PPAP methodologies.
• Experience in highly regulated aerospace and defense industries.
• Continuous improvement framework expertise.

Culture & Benefits

• Annual base salary with eligibility for performance-based bonuses and incentive compensation.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contributions.
• Paid time off, holidays, and additional leave benefits.
• Opportunity to work on advanced programs supporting national defense and aerospace systems.