Director of Quality Assurance - PCB Manufacturing
Job Description
Job Description
About Pioneer Circuits
Since its establishment in 1981, Pioneer Circuits has been leading the way in technology solutions for mission-critical systems. As the leading, privately held U.S. manufacturer of innovative high-performance flexible circuit boards, we are dedicated to the design, production, and assembly of advanced printed circuit board assembly (PCBAs) technology solutions.
We develop cutting-edge solutions that explore new frontiers, serve and protect our armed forces and allies, safeguard national security against evolving threats, and propel advancements in hypersonic technology.
Our customers include some of the largest aerospace and defense companies like RTX, Lockheed Martin, GE Aerospace, NASA, JPL, Northrop Grumman, and Boeing.
About the Opportunity:
The Director of Quality Assurance is a key member of the Senior Management Team, responsible for leading and transforming the Quality Assurance function within the company. This role is accountable for developing and executing quality strategies that drive continuous improvement, operational excellence, and adherence to industry and customer standards. The Director will lead multiple teams across quality, ensuring proactive engagement in process enhancement and customer satisfaction. As a change agent, this leader will influence cross-functional collaboration, strengthen the company's quality culture, and drive innovation in quality management practices.
Position Status: This is a full-time temporary leadership opportunity providing coverage during a leave of absence. While the assignment is expected to be temporary, there is potential for the role to become a regular full-time position based on business needs and the outcome of the leave.
What You'll Do:
- Lead the strategic direction for the Quality Assurance department, aligning initiatives with overall company goals and objectives.
- Drive the development and implementation of innovative quality management strategies and systems that optimize efficiency, compliance, and customer satisfaction.
- Act as a transformational leader, mentoring, developing, and overseeing the performance of a high-performing quality team while managing recruitment, training, and employee development efforts.
- Establish and track key quality performance indicators to identify opportunities for improvement, operational efficiencies, and cost reductions.
- Serve as the primary liaison between customers, regulatory bodies, and internal teams to ensure strict adherence to AS9100, DLA, NADCAP, and MIL-PRF-31032 standards.
- Lead and direct customer and certification audits, championing corrective and preventive actions to address audit findings and drive process enhancements.
- Collaborate proactively with manufacturing, engineering, and business operations teams to identify risks and uncover opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Implement a culture of continuous improvement through Lean, Six Sigma, and other quality methodologies to drive measurable improvements in quality, cost, and process.
- Oversee department budgets, resource planning, and technology investments, ensuring that quality operations are optimally resourced and aligned with strategic priorities.
- Strengthen vendor and supplier relationships to ensure consistent quality standards and compliance with all relevant requirements.
- Lead the resolution of customer complaints and returned material processes, developing long-term corrective action plans that enhance customer satisfaction and product quality.
- Champion cross-functional initiatives to enhance teamwork, knowledge-sharing, and alignment across the organization.
- Stay ahead of industry trends by researching and adopting emerging technologies and best practices to innovate and evolve the company's quality management approach.
What You'll Bring:
- Proven leadership skills with the ability to drive organizational change, inspire teams, and cultivate a culture of accountability and high performance.
- Deep expertise in quality assurance principles, manufacturing processes, and regulatory compliance within a complex, fast-paced environment.
- A strategic mindset, with demonstrated success in developing and executing quality strategies that drive business results and continuous improvement.
- Strong analytical and decision-making skills, with the ability to identify root causes, develop solutions, and implement effective actions.
- High adaptability in response to evolving business needs and industry changes.
- Expertise with quality and business management systems such as SAP, ERP, and CRM software.
- Outstanding communication and collaboration abilities, with experience engaging executive leadership, customers, and regulatory bodies to influence key decisions and drive results.
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality Management, or a related field.
- 10-12 years of experience in quality assurance within a manufacturing environment, including a strong track record in leading quality teams and strategy development.
- A minimum of 5 years in a leadership role with direct responsibility for quality teams and the development/execution of quality strategies.
- Deep understanding of rigid, flex, and rigid-flex printed circuits and the application of quality management principles such as AS9100, Lean, and Six Sigma.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities to identify and address complex quality issues.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively across all organizational levels and with external partners.
- ProCIM experience is a plus.
- Knowledge of MIL/Aero requirements is preferred.
California Pay Range$150,000—$190,000 USD
The actual compensation offered is based on a wide array of factors unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, years and depth of experience, certifications, and other relevant business considerations.
Pioneer Circuits provides a comprehensive benefits package for all full-time roles, encompassing healthcare, dental, and vision insurance for employees and eligible dependents. Additionally, employees enjoy paid vacation, paid holidays, and a 401(k) plan + company match, along with various voluntary benefits options.
This is an ITAR-controlled facility. As such, all applicants must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. Employment eligibility will be verified through the E-Verify system as part of the hiring process.
Pioneer Circuits is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity, or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.