Senior Quality Engineer

About the role

Thales is seeking a Senior Quality Engineer to lead quality engineering and assurance activities for hardware development, manufacturing, and in‑service aerospace products. The role is based in Irvine, CA and operates in a hybrid work model, collaborating with internal teams and external partners.

Key responsibilities

• Direct and facilitate Quality Assurance, APQP, RCCA, SMS, Product Safety Board, regulatory, and PMA ODA activities across Irvine and Orlando facilities.
• Make independent decisions on personnel assignments and technical requirements for hardware QA and PMA ODA without manager approval.
• Lead cross‑functional teams in audits, continuous improvement projects, and new process development.
• Conduct problem‑solving circles, root‑cause analysis training, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Prepare and submit PMA application packages and verify regulatory compliance.
• Review performance of hardware quality engineers, assess process compliance, risk, and maturity during design and manufacturing phases.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in aerospace hardware quality engineering.
• Proven ability to lead cross‑functional teams and mentor junior staff.
• Strong decision‑making skills with minimal supervision.
• Excellent communication with internal departments, customers, suppliers, and regulatory agencies.

Required skills

• Advance Product Quality Planning (APQP)
• Root Cause Corrective Action (RCCA)
• Safety Management System (SMS)
• Product Safety Board processes
• Regulatory compliance and airworthiness knowledge
• PMA Organization Designation Authorization (ODA)
• Hardware Quality Assurance methodologies