Senior Supplier Quality Engineer

Who We Are
At Firestorm, we're on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors — regardless of their defense budget — through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision "democratized deterrence." As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we're pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we're pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost.   About the Role   Firestorm Labs is seeking a Senior Supplier Quality Engineer to join our growing team in San Diego. At Firestorm Labs, we are building the future of distributed, mission-adaptive airpower for the modern warfighter. The Senior Supplier Quality Engineer is a key technical leader responsible for building a high-performing, reliable, and scalable supply base that supports Firestorm's rapid growth and production demands. This role ensures that every material, component, and service delivered by suppliers meets stringent quality, performance, and regulatory expectations. You will lead the development of supplier quality systems from the ground up, including supplier selection and qualification, audit programs, risk mitigation strategies, defect prevention methods, and corrective action processes.
You will collaborate closely with Engineering, Supply Chain, Production, and New Product Introduction teams to ensure that supplier capabilities align with evolving technical requirements and production volume goals. You will evaluate supplier readiness, guide suppliers through qualification activities, and establish controls that support early development builds through full-rate production. Your work will directly influence Firestorm's ability to scale efficiently, maintain product reliability, and ensure mission readiness across all platforms.
This role is hands-on and highly collaborative, suited for someone who thrives in dynamic environments, excels at technical problem solving, and can influence both internal teams and external partners. You will be responsible for identifying risks early, driving continuous improvement, and shaping supplier quality practices that support Firestorm's long-term manufacturing strategy.   What You'll Do
Develop and maintain the supplier quality management system including audits, quality flow-down requirements, scorecards, and corrective actions.Evaluate and qualify new suppliers through assessments, audits, and technical reviews.Partner with Engineering, Supply Chain, and New Product Introduction teams to gather product requirements and ensure that appropriate quality specifications are communicated to suppliers.Review first piece samples and first article submissions with Engineering and NPI teams as part of the supplier qualification process.Establish and lead the defect management and corrective action process for supplied product non-conformities.Support NPI projects by ensuring supplier readiness and effective supplier quality planning.Drive lessons learned and continuous improvement activities into future NPI programs.Provide training and guidance on supplier quality practices to cross-functional teams.
Minimum Qualifications  Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Aerospace, Electrical, or a related engineering discipline..7+ years of progressive experience in quality and manufacturing. U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations, with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.Demonstrated experience with FMEAs, control plans, PPAPs, and ISO 9001, IATF 16949, or AS9100 quality systems.Audit credentials such as ASQ CQA or ISO 9001 or AS9100 auditor certification.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Strong background in root cause analysis tools including 8D, 5 Why, and DMAIC.Excellent communication abilities and effective cross-functional collaboration skills.Solid working knowledge of aerospace or industrial quality, inspection, and audit systems and familiarity with quality engineering techniques such as ISO 9001, AS9100, AS9102, AS9145, and ASQ CQE.Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint).Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilitiesClear and professional communication with technical and non-technical users   Preferred Qualifications
Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related discipline.Experience with Costpoint ERP and Arena PLM.Prior experience in an early-stage, high-growth tech or hardware startup environment.Ability to influence change and adapt quality processes as business needs evolve.Demonstrated ability to manage complex, fast-paced operations in a dynamic environment   Work Environment
This role is based in San Diego, CA.We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate.PPE is provided; adherence to all safety protocols and environmental controls is mandatory. Occasional travel may be required (up to 10%) 
This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and the physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about regularly throughout the day. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment. 
Compensation
U.S. Range: $142,000 - $176,000
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.   Benefits & Perks   Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:
We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goalsEquity grants for new hiresUnlimited PTOExtremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.Generous Parental Leave Lifestyle Spending AccountFSA DCFSAHSAHospital Indemnity insurance Critical Illness insurance Accident insurance Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well. 
Export Control Compliance   To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.  Equal Opportunity Statement   Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.   Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at so we can provide the support you need.

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