Senior Quality Systems Manager (Defense)

TL;DR

Senior Quality Systems Manager (Defense): Designing and improving quality systems for mission-critical unmanned surface vessels with an accent on manufacturing quality, inspection planning, product verification, and continuous improvement. Focus on implementing AS9100-compliant processes, analyzing field and production data, and leading corrective actions that prevent quality escapes before final delivery.

Location: Onsite in Valdosta, Georgia, United States; willingness to travel to supplier and contract manufacturing sites is required.

Compensation: Base pay plus an annual equity package and potential bonuses.

Company

hirify.global develops unmanned systems and next-generation unmanned surface vessels for defense and national security applications.

What you will do

• Develop and maintain quality control plans, inspection plans, checklists, acceptance criteria, SOPs, and work instructions for USV components and systems.
• Oversee incoming, in-process, final inspection, and product verification activities across boatbuilding operations.
• Manage nonconforming materials and products in accordance with AS9100 requirements.
• Lead CAPA activities, investigate recurring issues, and verify corrective-action effectiveness.
• Analyze inspection data, quality metrics, field test results, and customer feedback to drive manufacturing improvements.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the quality team while maintaining high standards of workmanship and accountability.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, or a related field.
• 8+ years of quality experience in manufacturing, including 3+ years in leadership.
• Hands-on experience with incoming, in-line, and end-of-line quality systems.
• Strong process and documentation skills, with an understanding of quality planning and the product development lifecycle.
• Working knowledge of AS9100, ISO 9001, ITAR, and FAA compliance.
• Experience with 8D, Fishbone diagrams, and 5 Whys; ability to work onsite in Valdosta and travel to suppliers and contract manufacturers.

Nice to have

• FAA Part 107 certification.
• Experience in drone, aerospace, or defense industries.
• Six Sigma, CQE, or Lean Manufacturing certification.
• Experience with government contracts or Department of Defense programs.

Culture & Benefits

• Work on mission-critical unmanned systems where reliability and product quality are essential.
• Opportunity to contribute to continuous improvement across manufacturing and quality processes.
• Base compensation with an annual equity package and potential bonuses.
• Regular exposure to indoor and outdoor production facilities, including PPE and industrial working conditions.
• Occasional off-hours or weekend work may be required for emergency responses or projects.
• Employment requires proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residence and no sponsorship for ITAR/EAR-restricted work.

Hiring process

• Successful candidates must complete a post-offer background check.
• Employment eligibility is verified through E-Verify.