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AAR

Aerospace and defense aftermarket solutions provider

Director Quality

Validation, Compliance & Quality SystemsConfirmed live in the last 24 hours
Full-timeGreensboro, NC, USA

About the Job

Requirements

  • An associate degree in Engineering, Aviation, Business, Operations, or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • At least ten years of aviation quality, manufacturing, certification, or regulatory compliance experience.
  • At least five years of leadership experience managing quality organizations and cross-functional teams.
  • Demonstrated experience interfacing with the FAA on Part 21, Part 145, Production Approval Holder, and certification-related activities.
  • Strong working knowledge of 14 CFR Parts 21, 25, 43, 45, 145, and 183.
  • Experience managing quality systems in FAA-regulated manufacturing, modification, or repair organizations.
  • Working knowledge of AS9100, ISO-based quality systems, auditing practices, and continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, certification data, bills of material, and manufacturing documentation.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, root cause analysis, and decision-making skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including technical documentation and procedure development.
  • Proficiency with enterprise resource planning systems, quality management tools, and Microsoft Office applications.
  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required.
  • Ability to work extended hours, evenings, or weekends as necessary to support business, operational, customer, or regulatory requirements.
  • Ability to occasionally lift and carry items up to 20 pounds, and sufficient visual acuity, hearing, and mobility to perform inspections, review technical documentation, and safely navigate office and production environments.
  • Must use appropriate personal protective equipment when applicable in environments that may include manufacturing equipment, aircraft, chemicals, moving machinery, and noise levels exceeding 85 dB.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and maintain the Quality Management System to ensure compliance with FAA regulations, Organization Designation Authorization requirements, customer standards, and contractual obligations.
  • Establish and continuously improve quality policies, procedures, inspection programs, and quality metrics that drive operational excellence and product conformity.
  • Provide leadership for quality assurance and inspection activities, including receiving, in-process, first article, and final inspection.
  • Serve as the primary quality interface with the FAA, customers, auditors, and regulatory authorities, ensuring successful audits and timely closure of corrective actions.
  • Lead root cause investigations, corrective actions, preventive actions, and continuous improvement initiatives to reduce defects and improve operational performance.
  • Oversee disposition of nonconforming material through Material Review Board activities and associated risk assessment processes.
  • Partner with Engineering, Production, Supply Chain, Program Management, and Repair Station leadership to integrate quality objectives into business activities.
  • Develop and monitor quality performance metrics, dashboards, and reporting to drive accountability and informed decision-making.
  • Build, develop, and lead the quality organization through staffing, training, coaching, and succession planning.
  • Manage departmental resources, budgets, and capital requirements to support quality objectives and business growth.
  • Ensure inspection personnel are appropriately trained, qualified, and current with regulatory, customer, and company requirements.
  • Foster a culture of compliance, safety, ownership, and continuous improvement throughout the organization.
  • Support strategic initiatives, business growth activities, customer pursuits, and certification programs as required.
  • Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Desired Qualifications

  • A bachelor's degree in Engineering, Aviation, Quality, or a related technical discipline.
  • FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certificate.
  • Experience working within an FAA Organization Designation Authorization environment.
  • Experience supporting FAA Certificate Management Section oversight activities.
  • AS9100 Lead Auditor, Six Sigma, Lean, or other relevant quality certifications.
  • Experience supporting aircraft interiors, monuments, cabin modifications, supplemental type certificate programs, and aerospace manufacturing operations.

About the Company

AAR

Aerospace and defense aftermarket solutions provider

AAR provides aftermarket aerospace and defense solutions, including repair, parts, logistics, and maintenance services for commercial and government customers. It leverages a global network and a team of technicians to deliver timely, compliant support through standardized repair and supply-chain processes. The company differentiates itself with a 70-year track record, international reach, a strong focus on safety and quality, and recognized culture and industry accolades. Its goal is to be a trusted, reliable partner for aerospace and defense aftermarket needs worldwide, offering cost-effective services that meet high safety and service standards.

Company size
5,001-10,000
Company stage
IPO
Headquarters
Wood Dale, IL
Founded
1951

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