Quality Assurance Engineer

The Quality Assurance (QA) Engineer - Fabrication supports the RECONCRAFT QA Program, including the management and performance of all fabrication related quality functions.  This position provides subject matter expertise and direction to the program and production teams on quality-related items and, with the Quality Manager and Executive Management, establishes the overall quality strategy for the organization.  The QA Engineer has compliance oversight, including contractual quality requirements for multiple concurrent programs that include inspections, testing, and quality planning and management in the marine fabrication industry. The QA Engineer promotes product quality, effective and efficient quality processes, and helps ensure overall customer satisfaction by maintaining and improving the company's ISO 9001 compliant Quality Management System.  

Responsibilities (include but are not limited to):

• Manage and support the company’s ISO 9001 Quality Management System.
• Ensure strict adherence to approved contract documents for all elements of Quality Assurance. 
• Support and develop project and program plans in accordance with quality requirements. 
• Develop, implement, and oversee process improvements and procedures (e.g., procedure checklists, work packages, etc.) 
• Develop, implement, and manage test plans, including documentation, compilation, and preparation of test reports and findings. 
• Read and interpret contracts, statements of work, technical specifications, and fabrication drawings for quality requirements, including dimensions, tolerances, and other critical elements.
• Oversee all regulatory and company calibration guidelines for tools, equipment, and processes.   
• Identify and document work discrepancies and conflicts. 
• Perform visual and non-destructive inspections of aluminum and steel weldment in accordance with industry standards.
• Serve as a customer point of contact on all quality-related matters, including facilitating all required customer QA site surveys, inspections, and audits.   
• Review project quality requirements and assist in developing quality-related costs for bids and proposals.   
• Ensure processes and procedures comply with regulatory, customer, and company requirements.
• Provide written and verbal briefings to the Quality Manager and Executive Management on QA related matters as required. 
• Coordinate with department leads to ensure the overall effectiveness of quality program elements. 
• Develop and implement quality Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). 
• Track overall organization quality performance based on operational metrics and assist in developing solutions to improve efficiencies as they impact overall project quality.   
• Analyze program reports, issue trackers, databases, and presentations for quality trends, forecasts, and risks.
• Contribute to overall customer satisfaction and organizational profitability through relevant quality program monitoring and reporting on performance against variations. 
• Facilitate management of non-conformances, including root cause analysis and corrective actions.   
• Conduct quality indoctrination and core process procedure training to newly hired craft workers. 
• Brief all QA, test, and inspection matters at production meetings, project meetings, and customer meetings as required.   
• Liaise with vendors and suppliers to monitor their quality performance and address discrepancies or improvements as needed.
• Perform static and underway quality reviews and inspections of vessels/product during production and for builder trials and customer acceptance trials. 

Requirements:  

• Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Construction-related field. 5 years of relevant experience in marine manufacturing industry may be substituted for bachelor’s degree. 

• Required Knowledge/Experience:

• 7 years of combined fabrication, management, production, and operational experience in the marine manufacturing industry with experience on both small and large, multi-faceted projects.  5 years of military or government vessel operations and maintenance experience preferred.

• Ability to read and interpret complex construction documents, including 3D models.

• Excellent written and oral communication and problem-solving skills.

• Strong interpersonal skills and experience working with clients, naval architects, engineers, project and program managers, vendors, and sub-contractors.

• Experience leading and developing others with a team approach.

• Self-motivated and efficient time management skills.

• Ability to succeed under tight deadlines and schedules.

• Ability to develop detailed processes, procedures, and plans.

• Ability to develop detailed quality requirements for vendors and sub-contractors.

• Possess strong analytical, mathematical, and computer skills.

• Proficient with MS Office suite (Excel, Project, PowerPoint, Word).

• Valid Driver’s License and the ability to obtain a passport if one is not currently held.

• Ability to obtain an Oregon Boater’s certification/card 

• Must be a U.S. citizen to be considered for the position

• Physical Requirements:

• Ability to negotiate complex marine design and manufacturing programs with varying accessibility to participate in inspections, tests, and trials as required.

• Ability to function in a shop environment including standing, sitting, stooping, and squatting for extended periods of time if necessary.  

• Preferred Knowledge/Experience:

• Prior experience with complex marine projects, including quality assurance roles and responsibilities.

• Understanding of project delivery and acceptance criteria within a fast-paced, government contracting environment. 

• Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) qualification, specific to aluminum welding and fabrication.

Other Responsibilities:

• Perform other tasks consistent with the goals and objectives of the organization/contract. 
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Quality Manager or Executive Team 

The Copper River Family of Companies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws

About Copper River & The Native Village of Eyak:

Owned by the Native Village of Eyak (NVE), a federally recognized Alaska Native Tribe, the Copper River Family of Companies are a collection of entities that deliver a complementary set of solutions and services to support the diverse missions and requirements of our clients. Proud participants of the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) 8(a) Business Development Program since 2006, our companies consist of both current and graduation SBA 8(a) entities. It is our collective purpose to support the Tribe and diversify the NVE’s ability to facilitate economic advancement.

The income generated from our companies helps the Native Village of Eyak fund health and social services, economic development, natural resource/environmental education, jobs, job training, and other benefits to the NVE in a manner that is consistent with Alaskan Native cultural values and traditions.

Copper River’s Culture

The Copper River Family of Companies has a positive, supportive, and thriving culture. At the foundation of our culture is a focus on collaboration. No matter your role or which operating company you work for, we are ONE TEAM working toward the same goals for our customers and for our collective owner- The Native Village of Eyak. How we treat each other is just as important as the work we deliver.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Flexible Spending Account - healthcare and dependent care
• Health Savings Account - high deductible medical plan
• Retirement 401(k) with employer match
• Open leave policy and paid holidays
• Additional benefits including tuition reimbursement, transportation expense account, employee assistance program, and more! 

Note: Benefits are offered based on employment classification and applicable contract requirements. Eligibility may vary by position.

Disclaimer:

The Copper River Family of Companies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.