Quality Engineer

Our success depends on our people and we aim to attract, recruit and retain the most talented individuals to help take our exciting growth story forward.

Position: Quality Engineer

Location: Cleveland, OH

Job : 1050

# of Openings: 0

Job Title: Quality Engineer

Location: Cleveland, OH

Business Unit: Team Wendy, 17000 Saint Clair, Cleveland, OH 44110

Job Summary: The Quality Engineer – Military Helmet Manufacturing is responsible for ensuring product and process compliance with U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) requirements, including AS9100, ISO 9001, ITAR, and ballistic performance specifications. This role drives continuous improvement across manufacturing, testing, and supply chain functions, focusing on risk reduction, nonconformance resolution, root cause analysis, and compliance documentation for military‑grade helmets and personal protective gear.

• Develop and maintain quality plans, inspection standards, and control plans for military helmet components and final assemblies
• Lead First Article Inspection (FAI) efforts in accordance with AS9102 and manage associated documentation packages (e.g., FAIR, PPAP, CDRLs)
• Investigate internal and external nonconformances using root cause analysis and implement corrective/preventive actions (CAPA)
• Support ballistic testing programs, monitor failure trends, and ensure test data accuracy and traceability
• Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and test engineering teams to ensure new product introductions meet all quality and regulatory standards
• Lead or assist with internal, customer, and government (e.g., DCMA) audits, and ensure readiness for AS9100 surveillance activities
• Maintain robust document control, traceability systems, and quality record retention practices aligned with ITAR and DFARS requirements
• Conduct supplier quality audits and manage incoming inspection criteria for purchased components and raw materials (e.g., composite shells, straps, adhesives)
• Develop and report on quality KPIs such as defect rates, yield, customer returns, and cost of poor quality (COPQ)
• Train production and inspection personnel on quality standards, inspection procedures, and compliance expectations

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Industrial Engineering, Quality Engineering, or a related technical field
• 3–5 years of quality engineering experience in a regulated manufacturing environment (DoD, aerospace, or ballistic PPE preferred)
• Strong understanding of AS9100, ISO 9001, ITAR, DFARS, and military quality requirements
• Experience in composite materials, molding processes, and inspection of molded or bonded assemblies
• Proficient in reading technical drawings, GD&T, and using inspection equipment (e.g., CMM, calipers, bond testers)
• Skilled in root cause analysis tools (5 Whys, Fishbone, 8D) and CAPA implementation
• Working knowledge of ERP, QMS, and document control systems
• Strong communication and technical writing skills for audit responses, control plans, and customer communication

• Experience supporting ballistic testing programs and interpreting standards (e.g., MIL-STD‑662, NIJ protocols)
• Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) or Six Sigma Green/Black Belt
• Experience working directly with DCMA representatives or defense prime contractors
• Familiarity with CDRLs, export compliance, and contract deliverables
• Eligible for U.S. security clearance (preferred but not required)

We design and produce life‑critical personal protection solutions for the world’s militaries and first responders. With a portfolio that includes Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear (“CBRN”), protection. We do this through our two brands, Avon Technologies and Team Wendy. Our mission is to provide unparalleled protection for those who protect us, giving them the confidence to tackle challenging situations and helping them get home safe.

At Avon Protection, we recognize that our success relies on the collective efforts of our talented team. As an organization, we welcome individuals who embody our #FIERCE company values – fearlessness, integrity, excellence, resilience,…