Supplier Quality Engineer

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.

For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.

We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.

We are seeking a detail-oriented Supplier Quality Engineer to join our growing Supply Chain organization at Apex Space. This role is critical to ensuring the quality, reliability, and performance of components and materials that go into our cutting-edge modular satellite systems.

As a Supplier Quality Engineer, you will work closely with our supplier base to establish quality standards, conduct assessments, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. You ll be responsible for ensuring incoming materials meet stringent aerospace quality requirements. This position offers an excellent opportunity to grow your career in aerospace supplier quality within a dynamic, fast-paced environment where your contributions directly impact space missions and technological advancement.

Responsibilities:

• Execute supplier quality assessments including on-site and remote audits, quality system evaluations, and product qualification activities

• Support supplier buyoff processes, incoming inspection, and material review board (MRB) activities to ensure conforming product reaches production

• Conduct first article inspections (FAIs), review PPAPs, and support qualification of new suppliers and components

• Investigate supplier-related non-conformances using structured root cause analysis methodologies and drive corrective/preventive action (CAPA) implementation

• Monitor and track supplier quality metrics; create reports and dashboards to identify trends and improvement opportunities

• Collaborate with Engineering, Procurement, and Production teams to resolve quality issues and support supplier development initiatives

• Support supplier scorecard maintenance and participate in regular supplier performance reviews

• Assist with supplier compliance verification for industry standards (ISO 9001, AS9100) and regulatory requirements (ITAR, FAR)

• Document quality procedures, work instructions, and supplier requirements in accordance with company quality management system

• Support new product introduction activities by working with suppliers on quality planning and risk mitigation

• Participate in cross-functional teams to address supply chain quality challenges and drive process improvements

Qualifications:

• Bachelor s degree in Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, or related technical field

• 2-5 years of experience in supplier quality, quality engineering, or related field

• Understanding of quality management systems and aerospace industry standards (AS9100 preferred)

• Familiarity with quality tools including statistical process control, root cause analysis, and corrective action methodologies

• Experience with inspection techniques, measurement systems, and quality documentation

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and quality management software

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative environment

• Willingness to travel as needed to visit suppliers and support quality activities

• Aerospace, defense, or high-reliability manufacturing experience preferred

• Must be a U.S. Person (citizen or permanent resident) in accordance with ITAR regulations

Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We re a fast-growing startup backed by $200M in Series C funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.

• Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create

• Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost

• Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays

• Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%

• 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel

• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day

• Vibrant community: Monthly office BBQs, pickleball tournaments, run club, and social…