Manager- Quality

Job description

Application close date: Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed. At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We’re working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight! This role is part of Blue Origin Operations, which is comprised of Integrated Supply Chain, Test Operations, Safety, Quality, and Mission Assurance. This includes Manufacturing and Supply Chain support across all Blue Origin facilities. At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We’re working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight! This role is part of Blue Origin Operations, which is comprised of Integrated Supply Chain, Test Operations, Safety, Quality, and Mission Assurance. This includes Manufacturing and Supply Chain support across all Blue Origin facilities. As part of a hardworking team of specialists, inspectors, and engineers, we are looking for someone to apply their technical expertise, leadership skills, and commitment to quality to positively impact safe human spaceflight. Passion for our mission and vision is required! Responsibilities include but are not limited to: Lead, coach, and mentor a team of Quality Engineers, Specialists, Shift Lead and Inspectors to execute daily manufacturing quality operations. Conduct regular performance reviews, set objectives, and identify professional development opportunities for direct reports Foster a team culture anchored in accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement Champion adherence to the AS9100 Quality Management System across manufacturing operations; lead internal audit activities Identify, prioritize, and lead continuous improvement initiatives using structured methodologies (e.g., DMAIC, Kaizen, 8D) Develop and track quality metrics and KPIs; prepare variance analyses and initiate corrective actions to address adverse trends Support preparation and management of the Quality Assurance operating budget, identifying cost reduction opportunities without compromising safety Partner with Manufacturing Engineering, Design Engineering, Supply Chain, and Test teams to embed quality at every stage of the product lifecycle Support the Supplier Quality team in addressing supplier nonconformances that impact manufacturing. Interface with regulatory agencies (NASA) and customers as required to communicate quality status and corrective actions. Minimum Qualifications 8+ years of progressive quality engineering or quality management experience in aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing environments 3+ years of direct people management experience, with demonstrated ability to develop high-performing teams Working knowledge of AS9100 Quality Management Systems and the ability to lead internal and external audits Demonstrated experience managing nonconformance processes, corrective action systems, and First Article Inspections (AS9102) Proven ability to lead root cause analysis investigations (8D, Fishbone, FMEA, or equivalent) and drive sustainable corrective actions Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to present quality data and recommendations to senior leadership Preferred Qualifications Experience in aerospace launch vehicle manufacturing, space systems, or human-rated flight hardware programs Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification; demonstrated application in a manufacturing environment Familiarity with AS9145 (APQP/PPAP) methodology and its application in new product development to production transitions Experience with Statistical Process Control (SPC) and quality performance measurement analysis Relevant experience in a start-up or growth-stage environment, transitioning products from development through production to operations Exposure to ASMEY14.5 Geometric Standards Experience with Inspection Technologies such as CMM, Blue Light and Mechanical Inspections. Culture Statement Don’t meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles. Export Control Regulations Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum. Background Check Required for all positions: Blue’s Standard Background Check Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing, vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training. Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and main