Quality Assurance Manager Estes Energetics

Estes Energetics is a leader in energetic materials and solid rocket propulsion, supporting defense, aerospace, and commercial markets. Our team is dedicated to advancing cutting‑edge technology while fostering a culture of quality, innovation, safety, and collaboration. As we continue to grow, we are seeking skilled professionals who are eager to contribute to our mission of delivering high‑quality, reliable solutions in a dynamic, start‑up environment.

Join a team pushing the boundaries of aerospace propulsion and energetic chemistry.

Estes Energetics is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Quality Manager to lead and oversee our Quality Management System (QMS) in compliance with AS9100 standards. This role is critical in ensuring the highest levels of product quality and safety in the design, development, and manufacturing of solid rocket motors and energetic chemicals. The Quality Manager will be responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining quality systems, managing audits, and leading continuous improvement initiatives in a high‑reliability, high‑compliance aerospace and defense environment.

• Lead the implementation, and continuous improvement of an AS9100 Rev D compliant Quality Management System.
• Serve as a primary liaison for customer, regulatory, and third‑party quality audits.
• Oversee quality operations for solid rocket motor design and assembly, energetic chemical formulation, and hazardous materials handling.
• Lead supplier quality management programs and ensure external partners meet all applicable specifications and standards.
• Interface with the chemical lab and ensure quality assurance for analytical tests, data tracking and COA generation for customers.
• Hire for and train personnel in quality procedures, standards, and best practices.
• Manage internal audits, root cause analysis (RCA), and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA) to resolve quality issues and drive performance improvements.
• Develop, monitor, and report on key quality performance metrics (e.g., yield, defect rates, nonconformances, customer and supplier scores).
• Create and review Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) and other work instructions.
• Develop and manage the MRB (Material Review Board) and nonconformance resolution processes.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with Engineering, Manufacturing, Safety, and Compliance to embed quality into all phases of the product lifecycle, spanning short‑term development projects and long‑term manufacturing programs.
• Ensure compliance with ITAR, DoD, OSHA, and ATF regulations, particularly regarding the manufacture and storage of explosive materials.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality, or related technical field.
• Minimum of 5 years of quality experience as a quality leader in a regulated, manufacturing environment.
• Direct experience developing and managing ISO 9001 programs.
• Strong knowledge of solid propulsion systems and energetic materials production processes.
• Proficient in auditing, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement methodologies (Lean/Six Sigma).
• Familiar with regulatory and safety standards applicable to explosive and hazardous chemical manufacturing.
• Proven ability to communicate, present, and influence effectively across all organizational levels, including executive leadership, customers, and cross‑functional teams.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance (if not already held).
• AS9100 Quality Management System (QMS) Leadership experience.
• ISO 9xxx Quality Audit certification
• Experience working with MIL‑STD, NASA, and/or DOD quality requirements.
• Experience interpreting DOD product requirements.

The work will be primarily in office and manufacturing environments. Some time may be spent working with energetic chemicals and explosives.

• Ability to lift 50 pounds.
• Comfortable sitting, standing, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching.
• Exposure to industrial machines, heat, cold, and energetic materials.
• Frequent movement through a manufacturing environment.
• Use of personal protective equipment appropriate to the work location.

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