Director of Quality

Mission-Driven. Honor-Bound. Fairbanks Morse Defense. What’s your calling? For the men and women of Fairbanks Morse Defense, it’s the rapid and effective support of the fleets that entrust us to design, develop, and deliver the best naval power technology on the planet. We’re one of the nation’s leading marine defense contractors because of the highly trained and dedicated teams that provide reliable power systems, parts, and aftermarket services to the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and Canadian Coast Guard.   When you join Fairbanks Morse Defense, you join a legacy of commitment that spans 150 years. Fairbanks Morse Defense offers competitive benefits with a wide range of training and development opportunities. Our world-class teams are dedicated to helping every individual achieve their full potential.  About Federal Equipment Company (FEC): Federal Equipment Company has been a leading supplier of marine deck machinery and specialized weapons and material handling systems. The company, now part of Fairbanks Morse Defense, is rapidly growing. Job title: Director of Quality Reports to: VP/GM Job Description: Director of Quality Position Summary:The Director of Quality is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining the company’s quality assurance and quality control programs to ensure compliance with internal and external standards, customer requirements, and regulatory guidelines. The role involves leadership, strategic planning, and collaboration across departments to drive a culture of continuous improvement. Key Responsibilities: Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement the company’s quality vision, strategy, and goals. Collaborate with senior leadership to align quality objectives with overall business goals. Quality Management System (QMS): Oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of a robust QMS. Ensure compliance with ISO, ASME, FDA, or other relevant industry standards and certifications. Process Improvement: Lead initiatives to improve manufacturing, production, and operational processes. Implement Lean, Six Sigma, or other methodologies to enhance efficiency and reduce defects. Compliance and Auditing: Ensure compliance with regulatory, safety, and environmental standards. Manage internal and external audits, including supplier audits, certification audits, and customer audits. Customer Satisfaction: Establish systems to monitor and respond to customer feedback. Ensure timely resolution of quality-related issues and customer complaints. Team Leadership: Build, mentor, and manage the quality assurance and quality control teams. Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement. Data Analysis and Reporting: Analyze quality metrics and performance data to identify trends and areas for improvement. Present findings and recommendations to senior leadership. Supplier Quality Management: Develop and maintain supplier quality standards. Work with suppliers to address quality issues and improve supply chain performance. Qualifications: Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality Management, or a related field (Master’s preferred). Experience: 10+ years of experience in quality assurance/quality control, including 5+ years in a leadership role. Experience in manufacturing, engineering, or a related industry (e.g., industrial equipment, pharmaceuticals, aerospace). Certifications: Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), Certified Quality Manager (CQM), or Six Sigma Black Belt preferred. Skills: Strong knowledge of quality systems, standards, and methodologies (e.g., ISO 9001, Lean, Six Sigma). Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Exceptional leadership and communication abilities. Proficiency in quality management software and tools. Other Requirements: Familiarity with regulatory requirements specific to the company’s industry. Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines. Preferred Competencies: Strong attention to detail and organizational skills. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams. Experience with risk management and failure analysis methodologies such as FMEA. Knowledge of advanced manufacturing technologies (e.g., automation, IoT in quality processes). Work Environment: Primarily office-based with occasional travel to manufacturing sites, supplier locations, and customer facilities.   Important Information About This Role: This position requires access or potential access to Unclassified Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information, which is Not Releasable to Foreign Nationals (NOFORN) data. Therefore, to meet the NOFORN requirement, you will have to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship and attest that you do not have dual citizenship. Acceptable proof of U.S. Citizenship includes a U.S. Passport, U.S. Birth Certificate, or Naturalization Certificate. This job description outlines the general nature and level of work expected for this position but is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. It does not limit the right of any supervisor to assign, direct, and control the work of employees under their supervision.   The ability to competently perform all essential duties of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, a demonstrated commitment to effective customer service delivery, and the ability to work productively as a member of a team or work group are basic requirements of all positions at Fairbanks Morse Defense.