An Australian R&D and manufacturing company developing advanced defence and industrial systems is expanding its operations and now hiring a Quality Manager to lead quality assurance across production and engineering.
In this role, you will be responsible for implementing and maintaining ISO 9001 and AS 9100 quality systems, driving audit readiness, and embedding standardized quality practices across the manufacturing process. The position is evenly split between production and R&D quality, requiring a hands‐on approach on the factory floor as well as close collaboration with engineering on design changes and non‐conformance management.
This is a full‐time role based in Adelaide. For interstate candidates, relocation is required and a relocation allowance will be provided. Due to the nature of the work, Australian Citizenship is required.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead implementation and continuous improvement of the ISO 9001 quality management system, progressing towards AS 9100 certification.
* Prepare and lead upcoming AS 9100 audits, ensuring all documentation and procedures meet aerospace compliance requirements.
* Oversee the Engineering Change Request (ECR) process for production and R&D, coordinating with engineering to assess feasibility, document changes, and prevent recurrence of non‐conformance.
* Establish and manage gated in‐process quality checks at each stage of manufacturing, including laser cutting, CNC machining, and assembly.
* Conduct internal and supplier audits, driving corrective and preventive actions while maintaining strong supplier relationships.
* Provide on‐floor support to production teams, escalating quality issues and collaborating with engineering for root‐cause analysis.
* Champion a quality‐first culture by training and coaching staff on quality systems, documentation, and inspection practices.
* Perform periodic health checks on the QMS and implement improvements for audit readiness and operational efficiency.
Requirements
* Degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Aerospace Engineering.
* Proven experience in quality assurance or quality engineering within a highly regulated manufacturing environment.
* Demonstrated experience with ISO 9001 and AS 9100 quality management systems (AS 9100 experience essential).
* Strong background in supplier quality, internal auditing, and ECR/change control processes.
* Proficient in interpreting engineering drawings and using quality tools such as FMEA, Root Cause Analysis, and Control Plans.
* Comfortable working full‐time on‐site in a hands‐on production environment.
* Excellent communication and problem‐solving skills, with the ability to collaborate across engineering and manufacturing teams.
Desirable but not essential
* Certified internal quality auditor (e.g., ISO 14001:2015).
* Experience implementing or recommending digital QMS software solutions.
* Exposure to aerospace, defence, or other precision manufacturing industries.
#J-18808-Ljbffr