Quality Engineer

About The Company
Northrop Grumman is a leading global security company dedicated to providing innovative systems, products, and solutions to government and commercial customers worldwide. With a rich history of technological advancements, Northrop Grumman has been at the forefront of aerospace, defense, and cybersecurity industries. Our culture emphasizes integrity, innovation, and excellence, fostering an environment where talented professionals can thrive and contribute to impactful projects that shape the future of national security and technological progress. We are committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring our workforce reflects the communities we serve and promoting a collaborative atmosphere that encourages continuous learning and growth.
About The Role
We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Quality Engineer to join our team at the Northrop Grumman Radford, VA location, also known as New River Energetics. In this role, you will be responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining quality systems and protocols for the production of medium caliber ammunition, including 25MM, LW30, 30MM, and 50MM rounds. Your primary focus will be ensuring that all products meet stringent customer requirements and quality standards from receipt of contracts through final delivery. This position offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to critical defense manufacturing processes, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and drive continuous improvement initiatives in a dynamic environment with travel expectations of approximately 10%.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will possess a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field with at least 2 years of relevant experience or a master’s degree in a STEM discipline. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential, along with meticulous attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively. Candidates should demonstrate excellent communication skills, the ability to evaluate complex data, and a proactive approach to quality assurance. Familiarity with technical documentation, inspection methods, statistical analysis, and root cause analysis is required. U.S. citizenship is mandatory for this role due to security clearance requirements.
Responsibilities
Review customer requirements and generate comprehensive quality plans, identifying potential risks and leading readiness reviews prior to production commencement.
Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams to implement quality plans, support production processes, and resolve quality concerns on the line.
Assess quality issues by reviewing specifications and drawings, providing dispositions either individually or as part of a team, and ensuring compliance with all technical requirements.
Create and maintain technical documentation, including Certificates of Conformance, ensuring accuracy and completeness for internal and external audits.
Track key performance indicators and conduct internal audits to monitor quality performance and identify areas for improvement.
Conduct root cause failure analysis for quality issues, leading or supporting corrective action initiatives to prevent recurrence.
Design and analyze inspection and testing processes, mechanisms, and equipment, applying statistical tools to evaluate product quality and process reliability.
Audit quality management systems, identify deficiencies, and implement corrective actions to ensure continuous compliance and improvement.
Work closely with customers to understand technical data packages, complete technical documentation, and address product escapes or non-conformances.
Participate in contract and production readiness reviews, ensuring all quality requirements are met and customer satisfaction is achieved.
Support research and development activities related to product quality, reliability, and process improvement initiatives.
Benefits
Northrop Grumman offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional development of our employees. This includes competitive salaries, health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, a robust savings plan, paid holidays, and paid time off for vacation and personal needs. We also provide opportunities for overtime, shift differentials, and discretionary bonuses based on individual and company performance. For eligible employees in leadership roles, long-term incentives are available. Our commitment extends to fostering a healthy work-life balance and creating an inclusive environment that values diversity and innovation. Additionally, employees have access to continuous learning opportunities, career development programs, and a supportive community of professionals dedicated to making a difference.
Equal Opportunity
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We make employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. We believe that a diverse workforce enhances our ability to innovate and serve our customers effectively. We are proud to uphold an affirmative action policy and strive to create an environment where all employees can succeed and grow. U.S. Citizenship is required for most positions, especially those requiring security clearances.

Work arrangement
No