Rugged Science designs and manufactures ruggedized, passive thermal managed embedded computers, shock-hardened operator interface panels, ruggedized LED displays, and other custom rugged solutions. Our products are tested and approved for military and industrial applications. We specialize in custom prototype development as well as sustained production runs.

Rugged Science is seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Quality Engineer to join our team. The Quality Engineer will be responsible for ensuring the quality of our products by developing, implementing, and maintaining quality standards and processes. This role will involve working closely with engineering, manufacturing, and other departments to identify areas for improvement, perform inspections, and lead initiatives that ensure compliance of our Quality Management System with international standards. Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Job Responsibilities

• INSPECTION
  • Perform inspections, tests, and audits at various stages of the production process to verify product quality, including incoming materials, in-process items, and finished products.
  • Create Inspection Plans based on engineering drawings
• INTERNAL AUDITS
  • Participate in the preparation and management of internal and external audits, including AS9100 certification audits.
  • Conduct regular audits and assessments of quality systems, processes, and products to ensure conformance to AS9100 and other applicable industry standards.
  • Report on quality performance metrics and the status of improvement projects to senior management.
• SUPPLIER MANAGEMENT
  • Monitor and evaluate supplier quality performance and on-time delivery.
  • Conduct supplier quality evaluations and monitor performance.
  • Participate in evaluation and approval of new suppliers, and help maintain the Approved Supplier List.
• CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
  • Analyze quality data and trends to identify opportunities for improvement root causes of defects or non-conformance, and lead corrective actions.
  • Participate in Root Cause Analysis and Corrective Actions for defects or non-conformance.
  • Support the development and maintenance of product specifications and process controls.
• DESIGN
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, production, and design) to address quality concerns and drive continuous improvement.
  • Provide support during product design and development to ensure quality considerations are integrated into new products.
• TRAINING
  • Provide quality training and guidance to employees on the AS9100 system, best practices, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Train and mentor employees on quality-related topics and best practices.
• QUALITY SYSTEMS
  • Develop, implement, and maintain quality assurance procedures and processes in full compliance with AS9100 standards.
  • Ensure all quality-related documentation is maintained and up to date, including procedures, work instructions, and inspection records.

Experience and Education Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Industrial, Electrical, Mechanical, or related field) or equivalent experience.
• In-depth knowledge of the AS9100 Quality Management System and its application within the aerospace or related industries.
• Experience in performing internal and external audits in compliance with AS9100.
• Strong understanding of quality tools and methodologies, such as root cause analysis, statistical process control, Six Sigma, and Lean.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
• Certification in Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt), ASQ (Certified Quality Engineer), or other relevant certifications a plus.
• Experience with risk management methodologies (e.g., FMEA).
• Must have 20/20 vision (with correction if necessary) and ability to see colors.
• Must be proficient with Microsoft Office software products.
• Must be proficient with computers and able to use/learn electronic ERP system.
• Must be able to lift objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Direct experience with inspection of sheet metal assemblies and welded assemblies a plus.
• Direct experience with inspection of electronic assemblies and familiarity with IPC-A-610 and IPC-A-620 desired.

The Quality Engineer will report to the Director of Manufacturing Quality. Standard work hours are from 8 AM to 4:30 PM but may require other hours to coordinate with shop workload.